Understanding Roofing Warranties: What's Covered & What to Expect
When investing in a new roof, the warranty that comes with it can be just as important as the shingles and materials installed. Roofing warranties provide homeowners with peace of mind by protecting them from unexpected repair costs resulting from product defects or installation issues.
However, not all warranties are created equal, and many homeowners don't realize the limitations and requirements until it's too late. Understanding what your roofing warranty includes—and what it doesn’t—is crucial to making informed decisions about your home improvement project.
At Sharp Exteriors, we’ve worked with countless homeowners across the Twin Cities to deliver reliable roofing backed by trustworthy warranties. From manufacturer protection to labor coverage, every detail matters.
Misunderstanding the scope of your warranty can result in denied claims, surprise expenses, or voided coverage. Learning how warranties differ and how they work helps ensure your home remains protected long after the contractors leave your driveway.
With this comprehensive guide, you'll be better equipped to understand and evaluate your roofing warranty options. Let’s get started.
The Difference Between Manufacturer & Labor Warranties in Roofing
In roofing, two primary types of warranties offer homeowners protection: manufacturer warranties and labor warranties.
A manufacturer's warranty covers defects in the roofing materials themselves. If the shingles, underlayment, or other components fail due to manufacturing flaws, this type of warranty allows for replacement or repair.
These warranties are often backed by major brands, such as GAF, which is a preferred supplier for Sharp Exteriors. The coverage generally applies regardless of who installs the product, although some higher-tier warranties may require the use of certified contractors to maintain their validity.
In contrast, a labor or workmanship warranty covers issues resulting from installation errors. Roofing systems are complex, and even top-tier materials can fail if they are not properly installed.
This warranty is typically provided by the contractor who performed the installation. Sharp Exteriors offers a 10-year labor warranty, which reflects our confidence in our craftsmanship and the long-term reliability of our work. Labor warranties vary significantly in duration and scope between contractors, so it’s essential to understand exactly what’s included.
Combining both warranties offers more comprehensive protection. A manufacturer's warranty won’t cover installation mistakes, just as a labor warranty won’t help if defective shingles fail. Homeowners should confirm that both types are in place and clearly documented when starting a residential roofing project to avoid costly gaps in coverage.
Roofing Issues Commonly Covered (or Excluded) by Standard Manufacturer Warranties
Standard manufacturer warranties typically cover material defects that affect a roof's integrity and performance. This may include issues such as premature granule loss, cracking, blistering, and manufacturing defects that can lead to leaks or visible failure.
For example, if asphalt shingles deteriorate significantly before their intended lifespan due to a production flaw, the manufacturer is responsible for replacement, often on a prorated basis, depending on the roof's service duration. Coverage terms and limitations vary based on brand, product line, and whether the contractor is certified by the manufacturer.
What Is Excluded in Manufacturer Warranties?
However, there are several conditions and issues not covered under a typical manufacturer's warranty. These include damage caused by improper installation, poor ventilation, storm-related incidents, foot traffic, or homeowner modifications.
Warranties also exclude coverage for normal wear and tear, algae discoloration unless otherwise specified, and damages due to acts of nature, like hail or high winds, unless an enhanced warranty is purchased. Sharp Exteriors installs roofing systems using brands that offer upgradeable protection plans, but exclusions still apply if the cause of damage falls outside the material’s failure due to a defect.
Due to these limitations, homeowners should not assume that every roofing problem will be addressed under a manufacturer’s warranty plan. The exclusions section of the warranty is often more detailed than the coverage section, so it’s critical to read the fine print.
For projects involving commercial roofing or homes in areas with extreme weather, additional protection may be worth exploring.
How Long Do Roofing Warranties Last & What Can Void Them?
Roofing warranty durations vary widely depending on the type of product, brand, and whether enhancements were selected. Standard manufacturer warranties for asphalt shingles often offer 20 to 30 years of coverage, with some high-end products offering limited lifetime warranties.
Labor warranties tend to be shorter, commonly ranging from 1 to 10 years. Sharp Exteriors, for instance, backs its work with a 10-year labor warranty, which is on the higher end for residential service providers.
However, even the longest warranties can be voided if specific terms are not followed. The most common reason for voidance is improper installation. If a contractor fails to follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines, the warranty may be invalidated entirely.
Poor attic ventilation, unapproved underlayments, and non-compliant fastening patterns are frequent culprits. Homeowners also risk voiding their warranty if they perform unauthorized repairs, neglect regular maintenance, or fail to register the warranty within the required timeframe after installation.
Transferring a warranty when selling a home can also have limitations. Many warranties are only transferable once and must be done within a strict period, typically 30 to 60 days after the sale. Understanding these terms helps protect the investment over time and avoids disputes when issues arise.
Key Questions Homeowners Should Ask Before Signing a Roofing Warranty
Before signing a roofing contract, homeowners should take the time to carefully evaluate the warranty terms and ask clarifying questions.
Start by verifying whether the warranty includes both manufacturer and labor coverage. Ask what materials are covered, how long the coverage lasts, and whether registration is required.
Confirm whether the manufacturer offers different levels of coverage depending on the type of shingle or whether the contractor is certified, like GAF’s enhanced warranties for certified installers such as Sharp Exteriors.
Homeowners should also inquire about exclusions and what specific actions could void the warranty. This includes installation details, ventilation requirements, and maintenance obligations. Ask whether the warranty is prorated, if it covers full replacement or only material costs, and whether the company provides documentation upon completion. Clarify whether the warranty is transferable and under what terms if you plan to sell the property in the future.
Equally important is asking who will handle claims and how the process works. Some manufacturers require the installer to file the claim, while others allow homeowners to submit directly. Knowing what documentation is needed and how long claims typically take to resolve ensures fewer surprises if something goes wrong down the road.
Are Extended Warranties Worth It for Residential Roofing Projects?
Extended warranties provide additional protection beyond the standard coverage typically included with most roofing systems. These plans typically cover a longer duration, offer more comprehensive labor terms, or include enhancements such as wind damage or algae resistance.
For homeowners who plan to stay in their homes long-term, an extended warranty can provide peace of mind and financial protection against unpredictable failures. This is especially relevant in areas with extreme seasonal weather patterns like Minnesota, where rapid freeze-thaw cycles can accelerate roof wear.
Sharp Exteriors installs GAF-certified systems, which means homeowners may qualify for premium extended warranties when certified contractors perform the installation. These extended warranties can include up to 50 years of material coverage and 25 years of labor protection. They may also offer non-prorated coverage during the initial years, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs if something fails prematurely.
While extended warranties do come at a cost, they can be worth the investment depending on the roofing material, home value, and long-term plans. Homeowners working with Sharp Exteriors should assess the total value of enhanced warranty packages in relation to the home’s resale potential and local climate conditions before making a decision.
Sharp Exteriors: Your Trusted Roofing Warranty Partner in Prior Lake, MN
Choosing the right roofing contractor goes beyond product selection and installation quality—it’s also about long-term protection and peace of mind. At Sharp Exteriors, we understand the importance of warranties in safeguarding your home investment.
From manufacturer-backed product warranties to our own 10-year labor guarantees, our team ensures you’re covered from every angle.
We’ve been serving homeowners throughout the Twin Cities since 2011 with top-tier roofing solutions and trusted craftsmanship. Our experience with industry-leading brands enables us to guide you through the full scope of your warranty—explaining how long it lasts, how to avoid voiding it, and what to confirm before signing. Sharp Exteriors is more than just a contractor—we’re your long-term partner in protecting your home’s exterior for years to come!
If you’re looking for reliable answers or ready to take the next step in your roofing project, contact Sharp Exteriors today. Click here to get a quote and speak with one of our roofing experts.