Roof Warranty Basics: Understanding What’s Covered and Why It Matters

When you invest in a new roof, you expect it to last for years. But even the best roofing materials and workmanship need protection from unexpected issues. That’s where roof warranties come in. Understanding how warranties work—and what they actually cover—can save you from costly surprises down the road.

This guide explains the difference between manufacturer and contractor warranties, what homeowners should look for in coverage, and how Advanced Restorations’ partnership with Owens Corning provides some of the best warranty protection available.

Manufacturer vs. Contractor Warranties

Roof warranties generally fall into two categories:

Manufacturer Warranty

This warranty is issued by the roofing material manufacturer, such as Owens Corning. It covers defects in the materials themselves—things like premature shingle cracking, blistering, or granule loss caused by manufacturing issues rather than installation errors.

Manufacturers typically offer limited lifetime warranties, but the details matter. For example, algae resistance or wind coverage may depend on using approved accessories like ridge shingles or underlayments. Some coverage, such as algae resistance, may also vary by region or product line.

Contractor Warranty

This warranty is provided by the roofing company that installs your roof. It covers the labor and workmanship involved in the installation process. If a leak or other issue arises because of improper installation, this warranty ensures the contractor will fix it at no additional cost during the covered period.

While a manufacturer warranty protects you from product defects, the contractor warranty protects you from installation mistakes. Both are essential to ensure long-term protection.

What’s Typically Covered

Most standard roof warranties cover these key areas:

• Material defects: Problems caused by a manufacturing error

• Workmanship issues: Problems caused by improper installation

• Wind damage: Coverage for high winds, depending on product rating

• Algae resistance: For specific shingle types or when qualifying ridge products are used

• Tear-off and disposal: May be included or excluded depending on the warranty level

Homeowners should always review their paperwork carefully to see whether tear-off costs, underlayment, or accessory components are covered.

Transferable Warranties

If you plan to sell your home, a transferable warranty can add real value. Most major manufacturers allow homeowners to transfer their warranty to a new buyer, provided they submit the required paperwork—typically within 60 days of closing.

This means your investment in a quality roof can benefit both you and the next owner, offering added confidence and resale appeal.

How to Maintain Warranty Coverage

To keep your warranty valid, it’s important to:

• Use qualified installers certified by the manufacturer

• Register your warranty promptly after installation

• Schedule regular roof inspections and maintenance

• Repair any damage quickly to prevent further issues

• Keep documentation of repairs, inspections, and cleaning

Failing to follow manufacturer specifications or neglecting maintenance could void your coverage.

The Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Warranty Advantage

As an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, Advanced Restorations is proud to offer some of the strongest warranty options in the roofing industry. Owens Corning’s Platinum Protection Limited Warranty includes both material and workmanship coverage—backed directly by the manufacturer.

This means that if there’s ever a qualifying issue, Owens Corning will stand behind both the products and the installation. Homeowners gain peace of mind knowing their roof investment is fully protected for decades to come.

Key advantages include:

• Extended non-prorated coverage periods

• Algae resistance protection (up to 25 years on qualifying products)

• Wind coverage when installed with approved components

• Transferable coverage for future homeowners

Final Thoughts

Your roof is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your home. Understanding the difference between manufacturer and contractor warranties helps ensure that investment is properly protected.

With Advanced Restorations’ Platinum Preferred partnership with Owens Corning, homeowners can rest easy knowing their roof is covered by trusted experts—from the materials to the workmanship.

To learn more about your warranty options or schedule a free roof inspection call (417) 962-8844.