Manufacturer Warranties: Questions and Answers

Shingle warranties are so confusing, so we are answering your questions!

Replacing a roof is no small task. You need to hire a contractor, select products and choose colors. It can be an overwhelming process, but the right contractor can make this process short and easy. Mill Creek Roofing’s project managers are here to do just that- make it easy. Before you even make the choice to call us, you might have questions on shingle warranties. This is understandable, not all warranties are created equal and close attention is needed to choose the product that is covered by the best warranty. There are many misconceptions about shingle warranties and what they cover, we want to clear everything up and give you a comprehensive understanding of how warranties work so you can make informed decisions and have greater confidence in your choice in products. 
 
I’m looking into buying a new roof and want to understand what a Manufacturer’s warranty means?
In a nutshell, manufacturer’s warranties cover you if there is a problem with your shingles due to an issue that occurred during the manufacturing process. This problem is often referred to as a manufacturing defect. These warranties are manufacturers standing behind their product for a specified amount of time. 
 
What do you mean by a manufacturing defect?
A manufacturing defect means that the shingle was not manufactured to product specifications or does not meet the manufacturer’s standards. Many manufacturers utilize state-of-the-art technology and quality control measures to ensure that their shingles are made to their specifications so that the occurrence of manufacturing defects are avoided. 
 
What should I do if I think my shingles have a manufacturing defect?
If you suspect that you have a manufacturing issue, please contact Mill Creek roofing at 832-840-1400 or at contact@millcreekroofingtx.com. We will be happy to inspect your roof. If the issue is in fact a manufacturing issue we can contact your manufacturer on your behalf and begin the process to a resolution. 
 
If it is determined that my issue is a manufacturing defect, what exactly am I covered for?
This is where it helps to understand the warranty coverage that comes with your shingles. Each manufacturer specifies different coverage details. Within each manufacturer there might also be different warranty options for each product. The most common shingle warranty might be worded as a “limited, lifetime warranty”. Most often this means coverage for as long as you, as an individual homeowner, own your home – NOT for the life of the home. This also does not mean the shingles will last a lifetime. The shingles’ life span can be diminished due to the impact and severity of weather conditions, freeze/thaw cycles, UV rays, etc. so it is very important to ask for the specifications of the warranty provided with the shingles you have chosen because the wide variance. 
 
How do shingle warranties differ between companies?
Each manufacturer has different specifications that must be met before they determine that they will replace the shingles. Some companies will only cover the shingles if the defect affects the shingle’s performance or has resulted in a leak. Others will cover the shingles if your roof is leaking or not through the entire warranty coverage period. 
 
What happens if there is a manufacturing defect with my shingles after the coverage period?
After the coverage period many manufacturers offer a “prorated coverage”. This means that you will only be covered for the shingles. You will receive a portion of the original purchase price of the shingles- a number that gradually decreases each month as the roof gets older. You would be responsible for the tear off of the roof, disposal of the old materials, and installation of the new shingles. 
 
If I sell my home is the warranty coverage transferable?
This depends on the warranty coverage that came with your shingles. Many warranties are transferable, but not all. Pay close attention to this when choosing your roofing products. 
 
Do all warranties come with a lifetime warranty?
No, warranties vary by manufacturer and product. Most shingles carry the similar type of warranty coverage but some have less 
 
Are extended warranties offered?
Yes, most manufacturers offer extended warranty options. These options can be discussed with your project manager. 
 
These are a the most frequently asked questions and we hope that this clears up some of the confusion about manufacturer warranties. If you still have questions or concerns, feel free to contact us at 832-840-1400 or contact@millcreekroofingtx.com.