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Workmanship Warranty Roofing: What Every Homeowner Should Know
When investing in a new roof, most homeowners focus on materials, color, and price. However, one of the most critical aspects of any roofing project is often overlooked — the workmanship warranty. Unlike material warranties, which cover defects in roofing products, a workmanship warranty covers errors in the installation process.
Roofing is more than just nailing shingles. It’s a complex system that, if installed incorrectly, can lead to leaks, structural damage, and costly repairs. That’s why understanding and securing a roofing workmanship warranty is vital for protecting your investment.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about workmanship warranties in roofing, including:
Table of Contents
- What Is a Roofing Workmanship Warranty?
- Workmanship Warranty vs. Manufacturer Warranty
- Why Workmanship Matters in Roofing
- Common Workmanship Errors in Roofing
- What’s Typically Covered in a Workmanship Warranty
- What’s Not Covered in a Workmanship Warranty
- How Long Should a Workmanship Warranty Last?
- How to Evaluate a Roofer’s Warranty Offer
- Red Flags in Workmanship Warranties
- Questions to Ask Your Roofing Contractor
- Filing a Claim on a Workmanship Warranty
- How Workmanship Warranties Affect Home Resale Value
- Extended and Transferable Workmanship Warranties
- Benefits of Hiring a Certified Roofing Contractor
- Conclusion
1. What Is a Roofing Workmanship Warranty?
A roofing workmanship warranty is a written guarantee provided by the contractor that their installation work will be free of errors for a specified period. If problems arise due to installation mistakes, the contractor agrees to repair the issue at no additional cost.
This type of warranty is separate from the manufacturer’s warranty on roofing materials (shingles, underlayment, etc.). The key distinction is who is responsible and what issues are covered.
2. Workmanship Warranty vs. Manufacturer Warranty
| Feature | Workmanship Warranty | Manufacturer Warranty |
|---|---|---|
| Covers | Installation errors | Defects in roofing materials |
| Provided by | Roofing contractor | Roofing product manufacturer |
| Duration | Typically 1–25 years (or lifetime) | Usually 20–50 years (limited/lifetime) |
| Transferable | Sometimes | Often transferable |
| Claim process | Through contractor | Through manufacturer |
| Coverage example | Poor flashing causing a leak | Shingles cracking due to poor quality |
You need both warranties for full protection — one covers how the materials are made, the other covers how they’re installed.
3. Why Workmanship Matters in Roofing
Even the highest-quality roofing materials won’t perform well if they’re installed incorrectly. Roofing systems involve multiple layers, including:
- Decking
- Underlayment
- Flashing
- Ventilation
- Shingles or panels
If any part of this system is improperly installed, it can compromise the entire roof.
Common issues from poor workmanship:
- Leaks and water damage
- Mold and rot in the attic
- Reduced insulation performance
- Voided manufacturer warranty
- Premature roof failure
A workmanship warranty offers a safety net that holds the contractor accountable if something goes wrong due to their installation.
4. Common Workmanship Errors in Roofing
Here are frequent installation mistakes that workmanship warranties can protect against:
- Improper shingle alignment or fastening
- Insufficient flashing around chimneys or skylights
- Poor ventilation setup leading to moisture buildup
- Failure to install drip edge or starter shingles
- Incorrect slope or pitch handling
- Inadequate sealing around vents or pipes
- Neglecting manufacturer instructions
These mistakes often lead to leaks or structural issues and may take months (or years) to reveal themselves.
5. What’s Typically Covered in a Workmanship Warranty?
While coverage may vary depending on the contractor, a quality workmanship warranty should include:
- Labor and reinstallation costs to fix issues caused by poor workmanship
- Repairs to flashing, underlayment, and decking affected by poor installation
- Sealants, fasteners, and caulking if improperly applied
- Damage caused by misaligned shingles or panels
- Corrective work on ventilation or insulation installation errors
Coverage is often limited to installation-related defects, not problems caused by outside factors.
6. What’s Not Covered in a Workmanship Warranty?
To avoid misunderstandings, it’s important to know what a typical workmanship warranty does not cover:
- Storm damage (wind, hail, ice)
- Tree impacts or falling debris
- Foot traffic or accidental damage
- Wear and tear over time
- Improper maintenance or neglect
- Alterations by another contractor
Additionally, if material issues arise (e.g., defective shingles), that falls under the manufacturer’s warranty, not workmanship.
7. How Long Should a Workmanship Warranty Last?
Workmanship warranties vary widely, depending on the contractor’s policies and qualifications. Common durations include:
- 1–5 years: Minimum industry standard
- 10 years: Average among reputable roofers
- 25 years or Lifetime: Offered by premium contractors or certified installers
Tip: The longer the warranty, the more confidence the roofer has in their workmanship.
Also, pay attention to fine print — some “lifetime” warranties have diminishing coverage or require annual inspections.
8. How to Evaluate a Roofer’s Warranty Offer
Before hiring a roofer, ask for a copy of their workmanship warranty in writing. Evaluate:
- Clarity: Is it easy to understand?
- Scope: What’s covered and excluded?
- Duration: How long is the warranty valid?
- Transferability: Can it transfer if you sell the home?
- Claim process: What happens if a problem arises?
Compare warranty terms across multiple contractors and prioritize transparency.
9. Red Flags in Workmanship Warranties
Be cautious of contractors who:
- Offer no written warranty
- Use vague terms like “as needed” or “to be determined”
- Limit coverage to a short period (1 year or less)
- Make verbal promises without documentation
- Refuse to provide previous warranty examples
- Have poor online reviews about post-installation support
A good contractor is proud to stand by their work — a great one puts it in writing.
10. Questions to Ask Your Roofing Contractor
Before signing a roofing contract, ask these critical questions:
- Do you offer a workmanship warranty? If so, for how long?
- Is the warranty transferable if I sell my home?
- What is the process for filing a claim?
- What is specifically covered and not covered?
- Will I receive the warranty in writing?
- Are you certified by any manufacturers?
- What’s your process for addressing issues post-installation?
Their answers will give you insight into their professionalism and customer care.
11. Filing a Claim on a Workmanship Warranty
If a problem arises that you believe is due to poor workmanship:
Step 1: Review your warranty
Check the written document to ensure the issue is covered.
Step 2: Document the problem
Take photos and notes of the damage or defect.
Step 3: Contact the contractor
Call or email them with your evidence and request an inspection.
Step 4: Schedule a resolution
If it’s a warranty-covered issue, the contractor should repair it at no extra cost.
Step 5: Follow up
After the repair, document the fix and confirm the issue is resolved.
12. How Workmanship Warranties Affect Home Resale Value
Having a valid workmanship warranty increases home resale value in several ways:
- Peace of mind for buyers: They know recent roofing work is protected.
- Transferable warranties: A selling point during negotiations.
- Documented history: Shows the home has been maintained with care.
- Fewer future expenses: New homeowners won’t worry about the roof.
Make sure to notify the warranty provider or contractor if you plan to transfer the warranty to the buyer.
13. Extended and Transferable Workmanship Warranties
Some premium contractors offer extended warranties, especially if they’re certified by manufacturers like:
- GAF Master Elite® Contractors
- CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMasters™
- Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractors
These certifications often allow contractors to provide enhanced warranties that extend both material and workmanship coverage up to 50 years or lifetime.
Many are also transferable, which is a huge bonus for real estate resale value.
14. Benefits of Hiring a Certified Roofing Contractor
Choosing a contractor who offers a strong workmanship warranty often means they’re certified by leading roofing manufacturers.
Certified contractor advantages:
- Ongoing training and inspections
- Higher standards for installation
- Access to extended warranties
- Better track record and accountability
- Priority support from manufacturers
Hiring a certified roofer not
only improves workmanship quality but also increases your protection as a homeowner.
15. Conclusion
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home — and replacing it is a major investment. While most homeowners focus on materials and aesthetics, the workmanship warranty is your first line of defense against installation-related issues.
Whether it’s a leak, misaligned shingles, or poor flashing, a strong workmanship warranty ensures your contractor stands behind their work. It gives you peace of mind knowing that if something goes wrong due to poor installation, you won’t be left footing the bill.
Before you hire a roofing contractor:
✅ Ask detailed questions
✅ Get everything in writing
✅ Compare warranties across multiple bids
✅ Choose certified professionals who offer long-term coverage
Your roof protects your entire home — make sure your contractor protects your roof.
Need a New Roof with a Warranty You Can Trust?
If you’re looking for a licensed, insured, and warranty-backed roofing company, reach out today. Our team offers comprehensive workmanship warranties and a commitment to quality craftsmanship you can count on for decades.
