Key Takeaways:
- There are two main types of roof warranties: manufacturer’s and contractor’s. Each covers a different aspect of your roof’s installation.
- Most, if not all, warranties won’t cover damage to your roof caused by weather events or lack of maintenance.
- Protecting your roof through simple maintenance can help make sure your warranty covers some types of damage repairs.
How often do you think about your home’s roof? If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t – until something goes wrong. When that happens, suddenly the thing that’s protected you from summer heat and winter cold becomes your top priority.
Whether you need to repair a small leak or replace your entire roof, you’ll need to understand how the warranty factors in. The experts at Flynn Roofing explain how roof warranties work and the five best maintenance tips for keeping your roof in good condition.
How Your Roof’s Warranty Works
When your home was built, or the roof was replaced, it probably came with a warranty. Unlike homeowners’ insurance, which covers damage caused by accidents, warranties cover workmanship and materials. In other words, warranties cover problems arising from poor installation or faulty materials.
Manufacturer or Material Warranty:
Solely covers the roofing shingles. Generally, it only covers shingles that were faulty or damaged before they were installed onto your roof. This warranty doesn’t cover the cost of labor for removing damaged shingles or installing new ones. It also doesn’t cover damage caused by poor maintenance or other roofing materials, such as the flash or insulation.
Manufacturer warranties typically cover the entire lifespan of the shingles.
Contractor or Workmanship Warranty:
Covers labor and installation. This is your roofing contractor’s way of guaranteeing their work. This warranty only covers damages to your roof caused by poor workmanship, though some warranties cover the cost of repairing any damage done to your home’s interior as a result of roof work. Be aware that workmanship warranties will not cover the cost of damage to your roof as a result of weather events or poor maintenance.
Contractor warranties vary in length. Be sure to read the fine print on your contractor’s warranty before you hire them.
5 Maintenance Tips for Your Roof
Your roof is an enormous part of your home and a significant investment. Knowing that only parts of your roof are covered by warranties, it’s a smart idea to protect your investment with regular maintenance. In fact, without basic maintenance, your warranties may not cover the cost of repairs in case of damage.
1. Clean Your Gutters:
Cleaning your gutters twice a year, in spring and fall, is among the best ways to protect your roof. Clogged gutters can lead to standing or overflowing water that ruins the integrity of your shingles or underlayment. For best results, call a professional gutter cleaning service, which can also inspect your gutters for signs of damage.
2. Trim Nearby Trees:
Extreme weather events, like storms and blizzards, can tear tree branches off. If these branches fall onto your roof, they can cause significant damage, including broken shingles. This type of shingle damage isn’t typically covered by warranties, so it’s worthwhile to check the trees around your home a few times a year and cut down branches that are too close to your roof.
3. Look for Leaks:
Even the smallest leak inside your home may become a major problem if not addressed right away. Check your walls for moisture, look at the ceiling for water spots, and make sure you check the attic. Your home’s attic likely sits directly beneath the roof and is often the first place you’ll notice leaks.
4. Keep Your Roof Clean:
Try to keep debris from building up on your roof. Leaves, twigs, or animal nests can lead to mold and mildew, which will eat away at your roof’s shingles. Also look for algae and moss, which can damage shingles and lead to water leaks.
The best way to clean your roof is to hire a professional who has the right tools, equipment, and training to do a thorough, safe job without causing further damage.
5. Get a Professional Home Inspection:
The best way to maintain your roof so that it stays under warranty is with a professional roof inspection. Professional roofers know how to look for even the smallest signs of damage so that you can have them fixed before they become expensive problems. Have your roof professionally inspected at least every two years, as well as after a particularly extreme summer or winter.
FAQs: Maintenance Tips for Your Roof
Q: Who should I call first if my roof gets damaged: insurance or the warranty company?
A: First, make sure everyone in your home is safe, and, if possible, try to mitigate any immediate damage.
If the damage is minimal and you think it might be due to faulty shingles or poor installation, call your contractor. They may agree to fix the problem quickly and at low to no cost under your warranty. This helps you avoid the lengthy and tedious process of filing an insurance claim, which could affect your homeowner’s insurance premiums.
If the damage is extensive, call your insurance company first. They may even require you to call them first if you plan to file a claim and get reimbursed.
Q: How do I know what caused my roof’s damage?
A: Examine your roof as soon as the work is done. Look for the following:
- Exposed nails
- Uneven lines
- Visibly damaged shingles
These are signs that the damage may be covered by a manufacturer’s or contractor’s warranty.
Protect Your Roof With Flynn Roofing
Since 1997, we’ve been the local roofing experts for eastern Massachusetts. As a fully-insured, family-owned company, we put customer satisfaction first with quality materials and service. From maintenance to repairs to replacements, we’re your community’s most trusted roofing service.
Residents in Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, or Suffolk Counties can contact us for a no-obligation, free estimate on our roofing services!