Warranties
Roofing Warranties Explained
Two warranties protect a new roof — one from the manufacturer, one from the installer — and they cover different things. Understanding both before you sign anything protects your investment for the life of the roof.
Updated June 18, 2026
Manufacturer vs. Workmanship
Two documents, two different protections
Manufacturer Warranty
Covers defects in the roofing material itself — granule loss, cracking, manufacturing defects — for a term set by the manufacturer (often 20–50 years depending on the product tier). Enhanced and extended tiers frequently require installation by a manufacturer-certified contractor to stay valid. GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning each publish their certification requirements publicly.
Workmanship Warranty
Covers installation errors — flashing, fastening, ventilation details — and is provided by the installing contractor, separate from the manufacturer. Terms vary widely by contractor; get it in writing as part of the scope of work.
Before You Sign
Three things to confirm in writing
- Certification status: If the manufacturer warranty tier requires a certified installer, get written confirmation that your installer holds that certification.
- Transferability: Confirm whether the warranty transfers to a future buyer, what the notification window is, and whether a transfer fee applies.
- Workmanship term & scope: Get the workmanship warranty length and exactly what it covers in writing — verbal promises generally aren't enforceable.
Warranties
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a manufacturer warranty and a workmanship warranty?
A manufacturer warranty covers defects in the roofing material itself and is provided by the shingle or product manufacturer. A workmanship warranty covers installation errors and is provided by the installing contractor. Both matter, and they are not the same document.
Does a manufacturer warranty require a licensed installer?
Many enhanced manufacturer warranties require installation by a certified or licensed contractor to remain valid. Confirm certification status with the installer before work begins, and keep documentation of who performed the installation.
Is a roofing warranty transferable if I sell my home?
Many warranties are transferable to a new owner, often with a notification window and sometimes a transfer fee, but this varies by manufacturer and by the specific warranty tier. Confirm transferability in writing before relying on it as a selling point.
What voids a roofing warranty?
Common warranty-voiding issues include improper installation, inadequate attic ventilation, unapproved repairs by other contractors, and certain types of roof-mounted additions (solar, satellite dishes) installed without following manufacturer guidelines.
How long should I keep my warranty paperwork?
For the life of the roof, plus the warranty term. Keep the manufacturer warranty registration, the workmanship warranty from your installer, and the final invoice / scope of work together — ideally with your homeowner's insurance records.
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