When it comes time to replace your old roof, find out what options are available in the market first. Once you’ve figured out which roofing system is best for your home, it’s important to understand the details of your roof manufacturer’s warranty before you start working. Such contracts may seem simple, but unfortunately their language can easily mislead the buyer.

In addition, many homeowners have a misconception about their current roof guarantees, mainly because they have never thoroughly checked them. This error can really haunt the homeowner later when roof repairs are needed. Read on to learn about some of the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) concerns you should know about roofing manufacturers’ warranties.

Long-term guarantees

Don’t fall for a specific product just because it comes with a very long warranty. The long warranty is good, but it doesn’t guarantee the roof system will last for a long time. Very often, manufacturers use long-term warranties as a marketing tool, making them better than most other competitors in the industry. In fact, a well-made roof system shouldn’t last long enough to stick together. So, instead of making your purchasing decision based on warranty periods, focus on features such as durability, high-quality materials, and design compliance.

In addition, you cannot rely on all long-term guarantees. Manufacturers not only often create warranties without proper testing and technical studies, but some do not have such warranties at all in place. To make matters worse, some manufacturers who have promised to extend their product warranties can no longer actively or financially offer solutions to problems and roof repairs. As a result, homeowners find themselves in a difficult position when it comes time to replace or repair roof systems.

Very often, homeowners feel that their roof warranty covers all problems and repairs. Unfortunately, this is usually not the case. Such policies are very detailed and define very precisely what applies. In fact, many warranties do not make their product fit for installation in a particular type of home, will not leak, or fail.

This means that many roofing problems may not be covered under warranty, including manufacturing and material costs. Certain extended manufacturing and material guarantees may only be applied if the damage was caused by specific causes specified in the contract. These “material only” contracts usually only act as a substitute in the event of a leak.

Professionals recommend comparing and unbiased looking for proven options that fit well with the needs of your home so that you can make profitable decisions when purchasing roofing material. Consult your local roofing contractor for professional advice and recommendations on roof replacement and repair.