The Truth About Roof Warranties: What Sarasota-Bradenton Homeowners Need to Know
When you invest in a new roof for your Sarasota-Bradenton home, one of the most important considerations is the roof warranty. A roofing warranty provides peace of mind by ensuring that if problems arise with your roof, you have coverage for repairs or replacement. However, not all warranties are created equal. Here’s what Sarasota-Bradenton homeowners need to know about roof warranties to make informed decisions.
What is a Roof Warranty?
A roof warranty is a guarantee provided by the manufacturer or contractor that covers certain types of damage or defects for a specified period. It’s important to understand the details of your warranty. This will protect your investment in case something goes wrong with your roof installation. Also, don’t forget to register your roof replacement for a manufacturer’s warranty.
Types of Roof Warranties
There are two main types of roof warranties: manufacturer warranties and contractor warranties.
- Manufacturer Warranties: These typically cover defects in roofing materials, such as issues with shingles or metal panels. Manufacturer warranties vary in length, from 20 years to lifetime coverage, depending on the brand and product.
- Contractor Warranties: These cover workmanship and installation issues, such as improper installation or mistakes made during the roofing process. A contractor’s warranty often lasts between 1 to 5 years, but it can be longer depending on the contractor.
What Does a Roof Warranty Cover?
A roof warranty generally covers defects in roofing materials or installation errors that result in leaks or other serious issues. However, there are typically exclusions, including:
- Normal wear and tear
- Damage caused by severe weather or natural disasters (unless specified, such as hurricane coverage in certain areas)
- Improper maintenance or neglect
For example, Florida’s state regulations and building codes require roofing contractors to meet certain standards, and contractors must adhere to these standards for the warranty to remain valid. Referencing the Florida Building Code (FBC) or other industry regulations can clarify the terms of a warranty.
Owens Corning’s Industry-Leading Roof Warranties
When choosing a roofing material, Owens Corning offers exceptional warranties that provide homeowners with added peace of mind. As a trusted partner, Richardson-Stinton Roofing installs Owens Corning roofing products, which come with several warranties, including:
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: Owens Corning provides a Lifetime Limited Warranty on their roofing materials, ensuring long-lasting protection for your home.
- Wind-Resistance Limited Warranty: Owens Corning provides a Wind-Resistance Limited Warranty of up to 130 MPH, offering homeowners extra protection in hurricane-prone areas like Sarasota-Bradenton.
- Algae Resistance Limited Warranty: Owens Corning shingles come with an Algae Resistance Limited Warranty for up to 25 years, which helps keep your roof looking clean and free from algae stains.
Learn more about Owens Corning’s innovative materials from our blog post.
How to Maximize Your Roof Warranty
To make the most of your roof warranty, it’s important to follow these steps:
- Keep records of installation and maintenance: Ensure that your roof was installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Keep all invoices, warranty paperwork, and any maintenance or repair records.
- Schedule regular roof inspections: Regular maintenance and professional inspections often keep your warranty active. Many warranties void if you don’t inspect and maintain the roof according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Know what’s excluded: Review the fine print of your warranty to understand all coverage details. For example, storm or hurricane damage may not be covered unless the warranty specifically addresses such events.
State and Federal Regulations Impacting Roof Warranties
In Florida, there are specific building codes and regulations that affect roofing and insurance. For example, Florida’s Building Code requires roofing materials to meet specific wind-load resistance ratings due to the state’s susceptibility to hurricanes. A roof warranty may not cover damage caused by hurricanes unless the roof is installed with wind-resistant materials that meet the standards set by the Florida Building Code.
Additionally, in some cases, you may need to provide documentation that your roof was installed by an authorized, licensed contractor in order for the warranty to be valid. Always check with your contractor and the warranty provider to ensure your coverage remains intact.
A well-understood roof warranty can offer significant protection for your Sarasota-Bradenton home. By choosing a reliable roofing contractor like Richardson-Stinton Roofing, homeowners ensure their roofs meet the highest standards, maintain their warranty coverage, and safeguard their investment. For peace of mind, always read the fine print, keep your roof well-maintained, and stay informed about local regulations that could impact your warranty.
Protect your investment with Owens Corning’s trusted roof warranties. Contact Richardson-Stinton Roofing today to learn more about our roofing solutions and secure your home with top-quality materials and lasting warranties!
