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Roof Warranties Explained: Materials vs. Workmanship
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Roof Warranties Explained: Materials vs. Workmanship

6 min read27 System
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Not all roof warranties cover the same things. Understand the difference between manufacturer and workmanship coverage so you know exactly what protects your roof.

Two warranties, two different protections

Roof warranties generally come in two types, and they cover very different things. Understanding both is key to knowing how well your roof is actually protected after the work is done.

The manufacturer warranty covers the roofing materials themselves, while the workmanship warranty covers the quality of the installation. A truly well-protected roof has solid coverage on both fronts.

What the manufacturer warranty covers

A manufacturer warranty protects against defects in the roofing materials. If the shingles themselves fail prematurely due to a manufacturing defect, this warranty is what applies.

Coverage length and terms vary by product. 27 System backs its installations with a 30-year shingle warranty on materials, giving you long-term confidence in the products on your roof.

What the workmanship warranty covers

Even the best materials will fail if they are installed incorrectly. The workmanship warranty covers the quality of the installation itself, so if a problem arises from how the roof was put on, you are protected.

This is one of the most important things to ask about when choosing a roofer. A strong workmanship warranty shows the contractor stands behind their crews. 27 System provides a lifetime workmanship warranty on its labor.

Reading the fine print

Warranties have conditions. Many require that the roof was installed by a qualified contractor and that it has been properly maintained. Most also exclude damage from extreme events outside anyone control, sometimes referred to as acts of nature.

Keep your warranty documents and any inspection records in a safe place, and ask your contractor to explain the terms in plain language before work begins. Understanding your coverage now prevents confusion if you ever need to make a claim.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between material and workmanship warranties?+

A material warranty covers defects in the roofing products, while a workmanship warranty covers the quality of the installation. Both are important, since a roof can fail from either a product defect or an installation error.

Does a roof warranty cover storm damage?+

Generally no. Warranties cover material defects and installation quality, not damage from severe weather. Storm damage is typically addressed through your homeowners insurance, which is a separate process.

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