How Roofing Warranties Actually Work (And When They Don’t)
How Roofing Warranties Actually Work (And When They Don’t)
For homeowners in Carteret, Craven, Onslow, Pender, Brunswick, and New Hanover counties
Roofing warranties are frequently misunderstood. Many homeowners assume a new roof is “fully covered,” then discover limitations the first time a leak, shingle issue, or storm event happens.
This guide explains how roofing warranties actually work, what they cover, what they exclude, and how to protect yourself from the pitfalls that cause most warranty claims to fail—especially in coastal and storm-exposed North Carolina.
Quick Answer: What Does a Roofing Warranty Cover?
- Manufacturer warranty: material/manufacturing defects (not installation mistakes)
- Workmanship warranty: labor/installation defects (not storm damage)
Most warranties do not cover:
- wind, hail, hurricane damage
- normal aging and wear
- leaks caused by clogged drainage, poor ventilation, or neglected maintenance
- problems created by other trades (HVAC, satellite, solar) or “handyman” repairs
The Two Main Types of Roofing Warranties
1) Manufacturer warranties
Provided by the roofing material manufacturer. These typically cover:
- material defects
- manufacturing failures that meet the warranty definition
They usually do not cover:
- installation errors
- storm damage
- wear and tear and aging
Important: coverage often depends on correct installation, system components, and documentation.
2) Workmanship warranties
Provided by the contractor. These typically cover:
- installation-related issues
- labor defects that cause functional failure
Terms vary widely based on:
- the contractor’s written warranty terms
- service capacity and longevity
- how clearly the scope defines responsibilities (flashings, penetrations, ventilation, etc.)
A “long warranty” is only valuable if it’s backed by a company that will still be accountable later.
Why Most Warranty Claims Are Denied
Most denials trace back to preventable condition failures, including:
- improper installation (details, fasteners, flashings)
- inadequate ventilation (heat/moisture outside spec)
- failure to follow manufacturer specifications
- missing registration or documentation
- unauthorized repairs by third parties
- roof penetrations added/modified without proper sealing
In practice, many homeowners think they have a “warranty problem” when they actually have a scope, ventilation, or documentation problem.
The Role of Installation Quality
Warranties assume the roof was installed correctly. Problems often arise when:
- shortcuts are taken at edges, valleys, and penetrations
- specifications are ignored
- inspections are skipped
- ventilation is overlooked
A warranty is only as strong as the installation behind it. If the install does not meet the manufacturer’s system requirements, the manufacturer has a straightforward basis to deny the claim.
Registration and Documentation Matter
Many manufacturer warranties require:
- registration within a defined timeframe
- proof the system was installed by a qualified contractor (sometimes certified)
- documentation of materials and methods
- invoices and (in some cases) photo sets
Failure to complete these steps can reduce coverage—or void it entirely.
Homeowner best practice: keep a “roof file” with contract, invoices, product labels, permit/inspection records (if applicable), and the warranty certificate.
Transferability and Ownership Changes
Some warranties:
- transfer to new homeowners
- require notice and/or a transfer fee
- reduce coverage after transfer
If you plan to sell, transfer terms can affect buyer confidence and inspection negotiations. Know the transfer rules before listing.
Storm Damage vs. Warranty Coverage
Warranties do not replace insurance.
- storm damage (wind/hail/hurricane/falling limbs) is typically an insurance event
- material defects are a manufacturer warranty event
- installation errors are a contractor warranty event
Confusing these categories is a common reason homeowners lose time during storm season when fast decisions matter.
How Homeowners Can Protect Their Warranty
High-leverage actions:
- choose an experienced contractor with documented processes
- confirm the ventilation plan is correct and balanced
- ensure warranty registration is completed and saved
- keep inspection and maintenance records (annual + post-storm is a strong baseline)
- avoid unauthorized repairs and undocumented penetrations
- review warranty terms before signing—not after a problem appears
Common Warranty Myths (And the Reality)
“My roof has a 30-year warranty, so I’m covered.”
Not necessarily. Coverage is conditional, often prorated, and limited to specific failure definitions.
“The manufacturer will fix installation problems.”
Usually false. Installation issues typically fall under workmanship coverage.
“Warranties cover leaks.”
Only if the leak is caused by a covered defect. Many leaks originate from flashing, ventilation, maintenance issues, or third-party penetrations—often excluded.
Final Takeaway
Roofing warranties are valuable—but only when understood correctly. The homeowner advantage is clarity: know which warranty applies, keep documentation, protect the system from unapproved changes, and don’t confuse storm damage with warranty coverage.
If you’re in Carteret, Craven, Onslow, Pender, Brunswick, or New Hanover counties, Fortitude Roofing can review your roof system and explain how warranties and insurance apply to your specific situation—focused on education and long-term protection.
FAQ: Roofing Warranties in North Carolina
Do roofing warranties cover hurricane or hail damage in North Carolina?
Usually not. Storm damage is typically handled through insurance, while warranties generally cover manufacturer defects (materials) or contractor installation defects (workmanship).
What’s the difference between a manufacturer warranty and a workmanship warranty?
Manufacturer warranties usually cover material defects. Workmanship warranties cover installation-related issues and labor defects, and the terms depend on the contractor.
Why do manufacturers deny warranty claims?
Common reasons include improper installation, inadequate ventilation, failure to follow specifications, missing registration/documentation, and unauthorized third-party repairs or penetrations.
Do I have to register my roof warranty?
Often, yes. Many manufacturer warranties require registration within a specific timeframe and supporting documentation. Missing that step can reduce or void coverage.
If my roof leaks, is it automatically covered under warranty?
No. Leaks are only covered if they are caused by a covered defect. Leaks from storm damage, maintenance neglect, flashing issues, or third-party penetrations are commonly excluded.