Every roofer says "it's under warranty." Few homeowners know what that actually means. There are two different warranties on your roof, and the difference matters.
Manufacturer vs. workmanship
The manufacturer's warranty covers the materials — shingles that fail prematurely, defects in the product itself. The workmanship warranty covers the installation — flashing, sealing, ventilation, nailing patterns. Most roof failures are installation failures, which is why a contractor's workmanship warranty (and whether they'll still exist to honor it) matters more than the shingle brand.
What quietly voids warranties
Poor attic ventilation, pressure washing, unapproved repairs, and layering new shingles over old can all void a manufacturer's coverage. Ask for both warranties in writing before work starts — we put ours in every contract.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a material and a workmanship warranty?
The material (manufacturer) warranty covers defects in the shingles or roofing product; the workmanship warranty, offered by your contractor, covers installation errors. You want both — most leaks come from installation, not the material.
How long should a roof workmanship warranty last?
A meaningful workmanship warranty runs several years to a lifetime, depending on the contractor. Just as important is whether the company will still be in business to honor it — a reason to choose an established local roofer.
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