Roof basics
Roof Warranties Explained: Manufacturer vs Workmanship
A “lifetime warranty” does not mean what most people think. Here are the main types of roof warranty and what each one really covers.
The short answer: If your roof has years left and the damage is in one area, repair it. If shingles are failing across the roof or the same leaks keep returning, a replacement saves money over time. We tell you which one applies, with photos.
There is more than one warranty
When you replace a roof you may be handed more than one warranty, and they cover different things. The Owens Corning guide to roofing warranties describes three types, which we summarize below. Other manufacturers have their own terms, so always read the actual document for the product you are buying.
1. Manufacturer (product) warranty
Most asphalt shingles come with a limited lifetime warranty, which Owens Corning calls the industry standard. “Lifetime” generally means as long as you own the home.
- What it covers: defects in the shingles from the factory.
- What it does not cover: installation mistakes, or other parts of the roof such as underlayment, flashing and ventilation.
- Early years vs later: early on, the manufacturer typically supplies replacement shingles and may cover some labor, but not tear-off and disposal. After the initial period, coverage is prorated, so you get a partial payment or fewer shingles.
2. Contractor workmanship warranty
This comes from the installer, not the manufacturer, and its length varies. It should cover problems caused by installation errors, usually repairs to labor and materials, and some also cover interior damage.
Common exclusions in workmanship warranties include storm and high-wind damage, impact damage, water damage from ice dams, alterations made after installation, foot traffic damage, and leaks from falling limbs or debris. Ask for the exclusions in writing.
3. Extended or system warranty
Some manufacturers offer an optional, paid warranty that covers the whole roof system and combines product and workmanship coverage. It usually requires an authorized or certified contractor and a complete system, including underlayment, ice and water barriers, ridge caps and vents. The contractor may need to register the warranty within a set time, so confirm the registration in writing.
What to ask before you sign
- Who is the warranty from? The manufacturer, the contractor, or both.
- How long does each one last, and does it prorate?
- What is excluded? Storms, ice dams, foot traffic and later changes are common exclusions.
- Does it cover labor, tear-off and disposal, or only materials?
- Is it transferable? This matters if you sell the house. The Owens Corning page does not give transfer terms, so check the manufacturer’s rules for your product.
- Does registration affect it? Ask who registers it and get proof.
- Will you get the warranty in writing? Keep it with your contract and receipts.
How warranties and insurance differ
A warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship. It does not cover storm damage. For hail, wind or other sudden damage, your homeowners insurance is the place to start. See our roof insurance claim guide and our page on hail damage repair.
Keep your paperwork
Keep your estimate, contract, invoices, the warranty documents and photos of the finished roof. They matter for a future claim or a sale. See how to read a roofing estimate and do you need a new roof before selling.
Sources
Roof warranty questions
What does a lifetime roof warranty cover?
Usually defects in the shingles themselves, for as long as you own the home. It typically does not cover installation errors, other roof components or storm damage, and coverage is often prorated after the early years.
Is a manufacturer warranty the same as a workmanship warranty?
No. The manufacturer covers product defects, while the contractor covers installation. They are separate documents with separate exclusions.
Related:
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