UNDERSTANDING YOUR WARRANTY
July 10, 2024
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Your Project is Complete and Your Warranties Have Been Issued but How Do They Work?
When it comes to protecting your home investment, understanding the warranties provided by your roofing contractor is crucial. Whether you’re considering a new roof installation or have recently completed one, knowing what your warranty covers - and what it doesn’t - can save you from unexpected costs down the road. In this guide, we’ll delve into the types of warranties commonly offered, key components to look for, and how to navigate the claims process effectively.
Workmanship Warranty
A workmanship warranty is a guarantee from your roofing contractor that the installation work performed meets certain standards of quality and craftsmanship. It covers issues that may arise due to errors in the installation process, providing you with reassurance that any related problems will be addressed.
Duration
The coverage period of a workmanship warranty varies depending on the contractor and the specifics of your roofing project. Typically, it ensures that any defects or issues resulting from installation errors will be repaired by the contractor at no additional cost to you. This includes problems such as improperly sealed flashing, structural assembly defects, or other issues directly attributable to the contractor’s workmanship.
Coverage
Installation Errors: Any issues that stem from mistakes made during the roof installation process.
Repair of Defects: Repairs needed to correct errors in the roofing system’s assembly or installation,
Exclusions
While workmanship warranties provide valuable coverage, they often exclude coverage for:
Acts of Nature: Damage caused by severe weather conditions like hailstorms, lightning strikes, or high winds.
External Factors: Issues arising from factors beyond the contractor’s control, such as damage from wildlife, foot traffic, or modifications made by others not affiliated with the contractor.
Material Defects: Problems related to defects in roofing materials themselves, which may be covered under separate manufacturer warranties.
Understanding Your Specific Warranty
Upon completion of your roofing project and receipt of full payment, you should receive detailed warranty documentation from your contractor. This document will outline the specific terms and conditions of your workmanship warranty, including the coverage period, what is covered, and any exclusions.
How to Make a Claim
If you notice any issues covered under your workmanship warranty, such as leaks or installation errors, it’s important to contact your roofing contractor promptly. They will typically inspect the issue to determine if it falls under warranty coverage and proceed with necessary repairs.
Types of Manufacturer Warranties
Limited Lifetime Warranty
The GAF Limited Lifetime Warranty is designed to provide comprehensive coverage for GAF roofing shingles and accessories. Here are the key features and benefits typically included in the GAF Limited Lifetime Warranty:
Duration
The warranty lasts for as long as you, the original homeowner, own the property where the shingles were installed. This ensures long-term protection against manufacturing defects.
Coverage
It covers defects in manufacturing, which can include issues such as premature cracking, splitting, or granule loss that are not caused by normal wear and tear.
Transferability
In many cases, the warranty can be transferred to the next homeowner if you sell your home, offering potential added value during resale.
Eligibility
To qualify for the warranty, the GAF roofing products must be installed according to GAF’s application instructions and local building codes by a GAF Master Elite® or Certified Contractor. This helps ensure that the installation meets high standards of quality and workmanship.
Exclusions
The warranty typically excludes damage caused by natural disasters (e.g., hail, wind), improper maintenance, or modifications not approved by GAF. It's important to review the specific terms and conditions of the warranty to understand what is covered and what is not.
How to Make a Claim
If you believe your roof has a warranty-covered issue, you would typically contact your roofing contractor or GAF directly to initiate a claim. An inspection may be conducted to assess the problem and determine if repairs or replacement are necessary.
Silver Pledge Warranty
The Silver Pledge Warranty from GAF provides enhanced coverage for roofing materials, offering homeowners added assurance against defects. Here’s what you need to know:
Duration
This warranty typically offers coverage for a longer period than standard material warranties, often ranging from 25 to 30 years. It provides enhanced protection against manufacturing defects in GAF roofing materials.
Coverage
Material Defects: Covers defects in GAF roofing materials used in your installation.
Enhanced Warranty: Offers extended coverage beyond standard material warranties, providing peace of mind regarding the durability and reliability of your roof.
Transferability
The warranty may be transferable to the next homeowner if you sell your home, potentially enhancing the resale value of your property.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Silver Pledge Warranty, GAF roofing products must be installed according to GAF’s application instructions and local building codes by a GAF-certified contractor. This ensures that installation meets high standards of quality and workmanship.
Exclusions
Exclusions typically include damage caused by natural disasters (e.g., hail, wind), improper maintenance, or modifications not approved by GAF. Reviewing the specific terms and conditions is crucial to understand what is covered under the warranty.
How to Make a Claim
If you suspect a manufacturing defect covered under the Silver Pledge Warranty, contact your roofing contractor or GAF directly to initiate a claim. An inspection will assess the issue and determine if repairs or replacement of materials are necessary.
Golden Pledge Warranty
The Golden Pledge Warranty is GAF’s most comprehensive warranty option, offering coverage for both materials and workmanship to ensure maximum protection for homeowners. Here’s what makes it stand out:
Duration
The Golden Pledge Warranty typically provides coverage for the lifetime of the homeowner, offering unparalleled long-term protection.
Coverage
Material and Workmanship: Covers defects in GAF roofing materials and errors in installation by a GAF Master Elite® or Certified Contractor.
Highest Standard: Includes an inspection by GAF to verify that installation meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.
Transferability
Similar to the Silver Pledge, the Golden Pledge Warranty may be transferable to subsequent homeowners, enhancing the resale value of your home.
Eligibility
Installation must adhere strictly to GAF’s application instructions and local building codes by a GAF Master Elite® or Certified Contractor to qualify for the Golden Pledge Warranty.
Exclusions
Exclusions typically encompass damage from natural disasters, improper maintenance, or unauthorized modifications, ensuring that coverage focuses on manufacturing and installation quality.
How to Make a Claim
For issues covered under the Golden Pledge Warranty, homeowners should contact GAF or their GAF-certified contractor to initiate a claim. GAF will conduct a thorough inspection to determine the appropriate course of action, ensuring that any necessary repairs or replacements are performed promptly and to the highest standards.