How to Get the Best Warranty for a New Asphalt Shingle Roof

How to Get the Best Warranty for a New Asphalt Shingle Roof

You could buy the highest-quality asphalt shingles on the market, but they are only as good as the team that installs them. Manufacturers know this better than anyone, which is why their most comprehensive warranties are exclusively tied to installation by certified professionals. A small mistake made by an uncertified roofer can void your coverage completely, leaving you unprotected. Your choice of a roofing contractor is the most critical decision you’ll make in this process. We’ll explain how workmanship and materials are linked and why starting with a certified installer is the only way to get the best warranty for new asphalt shingle roof.

Key Takeaways

• Your Coverage Comes in Two Parts: A roof warranty isn’t a single document. It’s a combination of the manufacturer’s promise against material defects and your contractor’s guarantee on the quality of their installation. You need both for complete protection.
• Look for Features, Not Just a “Lifetime” Label: The best warranties offer a long non-prorated period, can be transferred to a new homeowner, and cover all costs—including labor and tear-off—not just the shingles themselves.
• A Warranty is Only as Good as Your Installer: Hiring a contractor who is certified by the shingle manufacturer is the most important step you can take. It ensures the warranty is valid from the start and that the installation meets the highest standards.

What Types of Warranties Cover Your Asphalt Shingle Roof?

When you invest in a new roof, the warranty is your safety net. But not all warranties are created equal. Think of it less as a single document and more as a combination of protections that cover different aspects of your roof. Understanding these layers of coverage helps you know exactly what you’re getting and ensures you’re protected for years to come. Generally, your asphalt shingle roof warranty will fall into three main categories, each covering something different.

The Manufacturer’s Promise: Material Warranties

This is the warranty that comes straight from the company that made your shingles. Most manufacturers offer what’s called a “basic limited lifetime warranty.” The “lifetime” part usually means the coverage lasts for as long as you own your home. The “limited” part is key—it means the warranty only covers problems with the shingles themselves, like defects from the factory. If your shingles start to fail prematurely because of a manufacturing flaw, this is the warranty that steps in. It’s important to remember that this promise doesn’t cover any issues related to how the shingles were installed. It’s purely about the quality of the product you purchased for your roofing project.

Your Contractor’s Guarantee: Workmanship Warranties

This guarantee comes directly from your roofing contractor, and it’s all about the quality of the installation. A workmanship warranty covers any problems that arise from mistakes made during the installation process, like improperly fastened shingles or faulty flashing that leads to a leak. The length and terms of these warranties can vary widely between companies, which is why it’s so critical to choose a reputable installer. A contractor who stands behind their work with a strong warranty shows confidence in their team’s skill and attention to detail. This is your protection against human error, making your choice of a certified roofer one of the most important decisions in the process.

The All-in-One Package: Extended System Warranties

Think of this as the premium, all-inclusive warranty package. Offered by major manufacturers, an extended system warranty provides the most comprehensive coverage available. To qualify, you typically need to have a complete roofing system—not just the shingles, but all the compatible components like underlayment and ventilation—installed by a contractor who is certified by that specific manufacturer. While these warranties often come at an extra cost, they bundle coverage for both materials and workmanship under one umbrella. This means if a problem comes up, you have a single point of contact, and the manufacturer backs the entire roof system’s integrity, not just the shingles.

How to Spot a Quality Asphalt Shingle Warranty

A warranty is more than just a piece of paper; it’s your peace of mind. But not all warranties are created equal. When you’re investing in a new roof, you need to know how to read the fine print and identify a warranty that truly protects your home. A great warranty is a sign that the manufacturer stands behind its product, and it can save you from major headaches and expenses down the road. Let’s walk through the key features that separate a basic warranty from a truly exceptional one.

Check the Coverage Length and Terms

Most shingles come with what’s called a “basic limited lifetime warranty,” which sounds great, but “lifetime” usually just means for as long as you own your home. The real value is in the details. The best warranties offer extended coverage for defective materials that can last up to 50 years. More importantly, this coverage isn’t prorated, meaning its value doesn’t decrease over time. A top-tier warranty will also cover the labor costs for repairs, which is a huge benefit. When you’re comparing options, look past the “lifetime” label and dig into the specifics of the non-prorated period and what expenses are actually covered.

Ask About Transferability

Are you planning to sell your home in the future? If so, a transferable warranty can be a fantastic selling point. Most major manufacturers allow for a one-time transfer to the next homeowner, but the terms can differ significantly. For example, some companies might offer the new owner full coverage for 15 or 20 years before it becomes prorated. This feature adds real value to your property and gives the new buyer the same confidence you had in your roof. Always ask your contractor how the warranty transfer works and what the new owner can expect for coverage.

Understand Prorated vs. Non-Prorated Coverage

This is one of the most critical distinctions in any roofing warranty. Non-prorated coverage means the manufacturer will cover 100% of the replacement or repair costs for a set period. After that, the coverage becomes prorated, meaning the payout decreases over time as your roof ages. For instance, after 50 years, some warranties might only cover 20% of the cost. A superior warranty will offer a long non-prorated period, ensuring you’re fully protected during the most critical years of your roof’s life. This is where you can really see the difference between a standard warranty and a premium one.

Clarify What’s Covered: Labor and Materials

A materials-only warranty can leave you with a hefty bill. Imagine your shingles are found to be defective. The manufacturer sends you a new batch, but who pays for the old roof to be torn off, the new one to be installed, and the waste to be hauled away? You do. A quality, comprehensive warranty covers it all: materials, the labor for the roofing services, tear-off, and disposal. This all-inclusive coverage is the hallmark of a manufacturer that truly stands behind its entire roofing system, not just the shingles themselves.

Look for Wind and Algae Resistance

Your roof has to stand up to the elements, so your warranty should, too. Look for specific coverage against wind damage and algae growth. Most leading brands offer 25 years of protection against the black streaks caused by algae, as long as you use their algae-resistant shingles. Wind coverage is also crucial, especially in Southern California. Some of the best warranties have no maximum wind speed limit, provided the shingles and all matching parts are installed correctly by a certified professional. This level of protection ensures your roof is ready for whatever the weather throws at it.

What Does a “Lifetime Warranty” Actually Mean?

The phrase “lifetime warranty” sounds like the ultimate protection for your new roof. It brings to mind a promise that you’ll never have to worry about your shingles again. But in the world of roofing, “lifetime” doesn’t always mean what you think it does. It’s more of a marketing term than a straightforward guarantee, and its definition can vary wildly from one manufacturer to another. Understanding the fine print is the key to knowing what you’re actually getting.

A lifetime warranty is designed to protect you against one specific thing: defects in the manufacturing of the shingles. It’s not an all-encompassing insurance policy against anything that could possibly go wrong with your roof. Think of it as the manufacturer standing behind the quality of their product, not a promise that the product will be invincible. Before you get sold on the idea of a “lifetime” of protection, it’s important to break down what that term really covers and, more importantly, what it doesn’t. This will help you make a more informed decision and choose a warranty that provides real value and peace of mind for your home.

How “Lifetime” is Defined

So, whose lifetime are we talking about? It’s almost never yours. For most asphalt shingles, a “lifetime warranty” refers to the expected functional lifespan of the shingle itself. This period is typically defined as 20 to 50 years, depending on the quality and type of shingle you choose. The manufacturer determines this timeframe based on their product testing and materials. It’s crucial to ask your contractor for the specific number of years covered under the “lifetime” promise. Getting this detail in writing ensures there are no surprises down the road and you know exactly how long your materials are protected against defects.

Why “Lifetime” Varies by Manufacturer

There is no industry-wide standard for what “lifetime” means, which is why you’ll see so much variation. One company’s lifetime warranty might cover 50 years, while another’s could be significantly shorter. Some manufacturers even have different definitions of “lifetime” for different product lines. Factors like the local climate and the specific roofing material can also influence the terms. A shingle that performs well in a mild climate might have a different warranty in an area with extreme heat or frequent storms. This is why you can’t just compare brand names; you have to compare the specific warranty documents for the products you’re considering for your home.

Common Myths About Lifetime Warranties

The biggest myth is that a lifetime warranty covers any and all roof problems. In reality, these warranties are almost exclusively for manufacturing defects that cause shingles to fail prematurely. They typically don’t cover issues like normal wear and tear, algae discoloration (unless specified), or damage from hail, high winds, or falling tree limbs. Furthermore, the warranty only applies to the shingles themselves, not the other critical components of your roofing system, like the underlayment or flashing. Remember, even the highest-quality shingles will fail if not installed correctly, which is why professional roofing services are non-negotiable.

A Quick Look at Major Shingle Warranty Brands

When you start shopping for asphalt shingles, you’ll quickly notice a few big names pop up again and again. GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed are three of the leading manufacturers in the industry, and each offers a range of warranties designed to protect your investment. Understanding the fine print of these warranties can feel overwhelming, but knowing the key differences will help you choose the right shingle for your home and your peace of mind. Let’s break down what each brand brings to the table.

GAF Warranties

GAF is well-known for its “lifetime warranty,” but it’s important to understand this refers to the expected life of the shingle, which can be anywhere from 20 to 50 years. One of GAF’s most impressive features is its wind coverage. If your shingles are installed correctly with all the required GAF parts, the warranty has no maximum wind speed limit—a huge plus for homeowners concerned about storm damage. For the highest level of protection, GAF offers the “Golden Pledge” warranty, which provides a 50-year full system warranty. The catch? This top-tier coverage is only available when you work with a GAF “Master Elite” contractor, highlighting why choosing a certified roofing professional is so critical.

Owens Corning Warranties

Owens Corning sets itself apart with how it handles workmanship issues long-term. While many warranties stop covering installation errors after a certain period, Owens Corning is unique because it continues to cover installation mistakes on a prorated basis even after 25 years. Their Platinum Protection Warranty is a popular choice, offering comprehensive coverage for both materials and labor for the first 50 years. If you plan on selling your home down the road, you’ll be happy to know that an Owens Corning warranty can be transferred one time to the new homeowner. They will receive full coverage for 20 years after the transfer, adding significant value to your property.

CertainTeed Warranties

CertainTeed’s top-of-the-line option is the SureStart PLUS 5-Star Warranty. This plan provides excellent coverage for the first 50 years, including materials, labor, tear-off, and disposal costs if a manufacturing defect occurs. However, it’s crucial to note that the workmanship portion of this warranty completely stops after 25 years. Like the other major brands, CertainTeed’s warranty can be transferred once to a new homeowner. The new owner gets full coverage for 15 years before the warranty becomes prorated. This is a solid option that provides robust protection for decades, making it a strong contender in the market.

Key Differences to Note

When you compare premium warranties from these three brands, you’ll see they all offer 50 years of initial full coverage for materials, labor, and tear-off. The distinctions are in the details. Owens Corning stands out by continuing to cover installation errors on a prorated basis after 25 years, while GAF and CertainTeed do not. For wind protection, GAF’s no-limit policy is a clear winner against Owens Corning and CertainTeed’s 130 mph limit. Finally, transferability varies slightly: Owens Corning and GAF offer 20 years of full coverage to a new owner, while CertainTeed offers 15 years. The right choice depends on your priorities, whether it’s long-term workmanship protection, superior wind resistance, or transferability.

What Isn’t Covered? Common Warranty Exclusions

A warranty is a fantastic safety net, but it’s important to know that it doesn’t cover everything. Understanding the exclusions is just as crucial as knowing what’s included. Most warranties have specific limitations designed to protect manufacturers from issues outside of their control. Knowing these common exclusions ahead of time can save you a lot of frustration down the road and help you protect your investment properly.

Damage from Severe Weather

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, but manufacturer warranties typically don’t cover damage from extreme weather events. These are often called “Acts of God” and include things like hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe hail. While your warranty covers defects in the shingles themselves, it won’t apply if a storm causes physical damage. For these situations, you’ll want to look at your homeowner’s insurance policy. If you do experience storm damage, it’s best to have a professional assess the situation right away.

Issues from Improper Installation or Maintenance

This is one of the biggest—and most avoidable—exclusions. A manufacturer’s warranty covers the materials, not the labor used to install them. If your roof fails because of mistakes made during installation, the manufacturer isn’t responsible. This is why your contractor’s workmanship warranty is so vital. The same goes for a lack of maintenance. Neglecting your roof can lead to problems that won’t be covered. That’s why choosing a certified professional for your roofing services is the best way to ensure your warranty stays intact from day one.

Problems with Your Home’s Structure or Ventilation

A shingle warranty is specific to the roofing materials. It doesn’t cover issues with your home’s underlying structure, like a sagging roof deck or foundation problems. It also won’t cover damage caused by poor attic ventilation. In fact, inadequate ventilation can trap heat and moisture, which can cook your shingles from the inside out and void your warranty entirely. A thorough roof inspection before a new roof is installed can identify these kinds of problems early, ensuring your new roof and its warranty are built on a solid foundation.

Normal Wear and Tear

Just like anything else, your roof will age over time. A warranty is there to protect you from manufacturing defects that cause premature failure, not the effects of normal aging. Fading colors, minor granule loss over the years, and other cosmetic changes are considered normal wear and tear and are not covered. The warranty kicks in when the product doesn’t perform as it should for its expected lifespan due to a flaw in how it was made. Regular roof maintenance can help slow the aging process and keep your roof looking and performing its best for years to come.

How to Keep Your Warranty Valid

A great warranty is a fantastic safety net, but it only works if you follow the rules. Think of it as a partnership: the manufacturer provides the coverage, and you take the necessary steps to keep it active. Skipping these steps can unfortunately void your warranty, leaving you without protection when you need it most. Here’s how to make sure your investment stays protected for the long haul.

Hire a Certified Installer

This is probably the single most important step you can take. Most premium shingle warranties are only valid if the roof is installed by a contractor who is certified by that specific manufacturer. Why? Because manufacturers have trained these pros to install their products exactly to spec. An uncertified roofer might do a decent job, but if they miss one small detail, your warranty could be worthless. When you work with a certified roofing company, you’re not just getting a new roof; you’re getting the peace of mind that comes with a properly protected investment.

Register Your Warranty Correctly

Once your beautiful new roof is installed, there’s one small piece of paperwork that makes a huge difference: warranty registration. Your contractor will likely handle this for you, but it’s always smart to confirm that it’s been done. Think of it like registering a new car—it officially puts you in the system. Without proper registration, the manufacturer has no record of your purchase, which can create a major roadblock if you ever need to file a claim. Keep a copy of the registration confirmation with your other important home documents. It’s a simple step that can save you a world of trouble later.

Stick to a Maintenance Schedule

Your warranty assumes you’ll take reasonable care of your roof. Neglect can lead to problems that aren’t covered. This means keeping your gutters clean, removing debris like fallen branches, and ensuring the roof isn’t damaged by things like foot traffic or poorly placed satellite dishes. It’s also a great idea to schedule periodic professional check-ups. A routine roof inspection can catch small issues before they become big, expensive problems and provides a documented history of upkeep. This shows the manufacturer you’ve done your part to maintain the roof’s condition, which is crucial for any future claims.

Know How to File a Claim

Hopefully, you’ll never need to use your warranty, but it’s wise to know the process just in case. Filing a claim can sometimes be tricky, as manufacturers often require detailed proof that the shingles were installed perfectly and that the issue is due to a product defect. This is another area where hiring a certified installer pays off—they provide the initial documentation you’ll need. Be sure to keep your original contract, warranty documents, and any maintenance records in a safe, accessible place. If an issue arises, contact your installer first. They can help you determine the cause and guide you through the manufacturer’s claim process.

Common Warranty Mistakes to Avoid

A great warranty is an amazing safety net, but it’s easy to make assumptions that can leave you unprotected. Understanding the fine print and your responsibilities is just as important as choosing the right shingles. Let’s walk through a few common missteps homeowners make so you can steer clear of them and keep your coverage secure for years to come.

Don’t Assume Everything is Covered

It’s a common belief that a “lifetime” warranty covers absolutely anything that could go wrong with your roof. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Most manufacturer warranties are specifically for defects in the roofing materials themselves. The quality of the installation is a completely separate—and equally critical—piece of the puzzle. If a shingle fails due to a manufacturing flaw, the material warranty should cover it. But if your roof leaks because of poor installation, you’ll need to rely on a different type of coverage. This is why professional roofing services are so important for your roof’s long-term performance.

Don’t Overlook the Workmanship Warranty

This brings us to the workmanship warranty, which is your protection against installation errors. This guarantee comes directly from your roofing contractor, not the shingle manufacturer. It covers issues that arise from mistakes made during the installation process, like improperly fastened shingles or faulty flashing. A reputable contractor will always stand by their work with a solid workmanship warranty. When you’re vetting installers, ask to see their warranty in writing. It’s a direct reflection of their confidence in their skills and a key indicator that you’re working with a true professional.

Don’t Misunderstand the Transferability Rules

If you plan on selling your home in the future, the transferability of your roof warranty is a huge selling point. However, don’t assume the warranty automatically passes to the new owner. Most manufacturers have specific rules for transferring coverage. Often, you can only transfer it once, and there may be a limited time frame or paperwork required to complete the process. Some warranties also become prorated after they are transferred. Understanding these details ahead of time ensures you can accurately represent this benefit to potential buyers and helps them secure a valuable roof certification for their new home.

Don’t Skip Required Maintenance

A warranty isn’t a “set it and forget it” deal. It’s a partnership, and you have a role to play in keeping your roof in good shape. Most warranties require you to perform routine maintenance to keep your coverage valid. This can include things like keeping gutters clean, removing debris, and scheduling periodic inspections. Neglecting your roof can lead to problems that the manufacturer may argue are due to a lack of care, not defective materials. Following a consistent roof maintenance schedule not only protects your warranty but also extends the life of your roof.

Finding the Best Warranty for Your Home

A new roof is a major investment, and its warranty is your safety net. But not all warranties are created equal. Choosing the right one means looking beyond the “lifetime” label and understanding what you’re really getting. It’s about finding that sweet spot where cost, coverage, and long-term peace of mind meet. Let’s break down how to find the best warranty for your home.

Weighing Coverage Against Cost

It’s tempting to focus only on the price tag, but a cheap roof with a weak warranty can cost you more down the road. A truly valuable warranty covers more than just the shingles. Look for coverage that includes the labor to install new materials, the cost of tearing off the old roof, and even waste disposal. When a manufacturer offers this level of protection, it shows they have serious confidence in their product. Think of it as an investment in your home’s future, not just an expense.

Thinking About Long-Term Protection

Your roof is in it for the long haul, and your warranty should be too. The best warranties provide long-term, non-prorated coverage, meaning the value doesn’t decrease over time for a set period—sometimes for up to 50 years for defective materials. A great warranty also covers the entire roofing system, not just the shingles. Remember, the quality of the installation is just as important as the materials themselves, so a warranty that acknowledges both offers true peace of mind for decades to come.

Why a Certified Contractor is Key to a Great Warranty

This is the part you absolutely can’t skip. You could pick the best shingles with the most amazing warranty, but if your installer isn’t certified by that specific manufacturer, the warranty is void. It’s that simple. Manufacturers need to know their products are being installed correctly, which is why they partner with trained and vetted professionals. Hiring a certified roofing contractor is the only way to guarantee that your manufacturer’s warranty will be honored, giving you access to the best protection available for your home.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the biggest difference between the manufacturer’s warranty and my roofer’s warranty? Think of it this way: the manufacturer’s warranty covers the product, while your roofer’s warranty covers the service. The shingle manufacturer promises that their product is free from defects. Your contractor, on the other hand, guarantees the quality of their installation work. You absolutely need both, because even the best shingles in the world will fail if they aren’t installed correctly.

If I sell my house, can the new owner use my roof warranty? In many cases, yes, but it’s not automatic. Most top-tier warranties can be transferred one time to the next homeowner, which is a great selling point for your home. However, the terms often change after the transfer. The new owner might get a shorter period of full coverage before it becomes prorated. It’s important to check the specific rules with your manufacturer and complete any required paperwork to make the transfer official.

Why is hiring a manufacturer-certified installer so crucial for my warranty? Hiring a certified installer is the key to ensuring your manufacturer’s warranty is valid from day one. Shingle manufacturers have very specific installation requirements, and they train certified roofers to follow them perfectly. If an uncertified contractor misses a step, it can void your material warranty entirely, leaving you without coverage. A certified pro guarantees the job is done right, protecting your investment fully.

Does my warranty cover damage from a big storm? Generally, no. Manufacturer warranties are designed to protect you against defects in the product, not damage from severe weather events like hurricanes or major hail storms. That’s where your homeowner’s insurance policy comes into play. While some premium warranties offer excellent wind resistance coverage, damage from what’s often called an “Act of God” is typically an insurance matter.

What does “prorated” mean, and why should I care? Prorated coverage is a detail you really want to pay attention to. When a warranty is “non-prorated,” it means the manufacturer will cover 100% of the replacement costs for a set period. Once the coverage becomes “prorated,” the value of the warranty decreases over time. A superior warranty will offer a long non-prorated period, giving you full protection during the most critical years of your roof’s life.