When you’re investing in a new roof, the last thing you want is confusion. Roofs aren’t cheap, and when issues pop up, whether it’s a missing shingle or a surprise leak, you want to know you’re covered by your roof warranties.
But if you’re like most homeowners in Connecticut or Massachusetts, roofing might feel like foreign territory. You’ve probably asked yourself: What does a roof warranty actually cover?What’s the difference between material and workmanship warranties? Will I be stuck with repair bills later on?
At JP Carroll Roofing, we want no one to feel unsure about the protection that comes with their roof. This guide will help you understand how warranties work, what to look for, and how to make sure your roof—and peace of mind—are built to last.
Why Roof Warranties Matter in New England
The weather in New England is unpredictable. A calm morning can turn into a storm by nightfall, and winters bring ice, snow, and high winds that push roofs to the limit. Having a strong roof warranty is not just a nice-to-have; it’s essential.
Roofs in this region face unique challenges:
- Freeze-thaw cycles can damage shingles and flashing
- Heavy snowfall puts weight stress on structural elements
- High wind gusts can rip up edges or peel shingles
- Ice dams and moisture buildup lead to interior leaks
A solid warranty gives you protection against defects and installation issues that show up weeks, months, or even years later.
What Roof Warranties Usually Cover
Not all warranties are the same. When you hear “roof warranty,” it typically refers to either a manufacturer’s or workmanship warranty.
Your home’s roof warranties may include:
- Defects in manufacturing: Buckled shingles, cracking, premature wear
- Leaks caused by improper installation: Faulty flashing, missed sealants
- Wind resistance limits: If shingles fail below their rated wind speed
- Algae resistance: Some shingles include warranty coverage for discoloration
- Labor: For replacement during early years of manufacturer’s warranties
Although many warranties cover a wide variety of scenarios, the following will likely not be covered by a warranty:
- Weather damage beyond warranty thresholds (like hurricane-force winds)
- Neglected maintenance (like clogged gutters or ignored leaks)
- Improper attic ventilation or insulation that damages the roof
- Foot traffic, repairs by non-certified contractors, or DIY fixes gone wrong
You should always request the full warranty document and ask questions to understand what’s actually included.
Manufacturer (material) warranty
A manufacturer’s warranty covers defects in the roofing products—for such things as shingles, metal panels, or underlayment. If a shingle buckles or loses granules prematurely because of a defect, the manufacturer may replace it.
The length of time roofing materials are protected varies between basic warranties and extended or enhanced warranties. For example, some warranties cover up to 50 years or lifetime for premium products. Others may only cover a 5- to 20-year time period.
Manufacturer warranties usually come with fine print. Many are limited warranties, meaning they don’t cover installation mistakes or damage from improper ventilation. They also tend to be prorated, which means the coverage drops as the roof ages.
Workmanship warranty
This is offered by the roofing contractor and covers errors in installation. If something was nailed incorrectly or flashing wasn’t sealed properly, this is where the warranty steps in.
With warranties backing your roofing project, any product defects or mistakes on our end are handled without undue cost or hassle to you.
Why Using Manufacturer-Certified Installers Matters
Manufacturers like CertainTeed, GAF, and Owens Corning offer extended warranties—but only if your roof is installed by a certified partner. That means your installer must follow specific best practices and meet training requirements.
Hiring an uncertified contractor might cost less up front, but it can void the manufacturer’s extended warranty altogether.
JP Carroll Roofing is a certified installer with several top manufacturers. That means we offer access to premium product warranties and make sure your coverage is protected from day one.
Transferring Your Warranty If You Sell Your Home
Many roof warranties are transferable. This means that if you sell your home, the next owner keeps the coverage. That’s a win for your home’s resale value. However, the transfer often comes with a time limit.
For example:
- Transfer may need to happen within a few days of the sale
- Only one transfer is allowed, usually
- Some warranties downgrade after transfer
If you’re planning to move, mention this when reviewing warranty paperwork. We help our clients handle the transfer process so nothing falls through the cracks.
How to File a Roof Warranty Claim
If you ever need to make a claim, here’s how it works:
- Start with your contractor: Contact the company that installed your roof. At JP Carroll Roofing, we help troubleshoot the problem and determine whether it’s covered under warranty
- Gather your documentation: Documentation may include your original invoice, warranty certificate, and any inspection reports or photos of damage
- Submit claim to manufacturer (if applicable): Some manufacturers require you to fill out a form or send physical samples of damaged shingles
- Schedule inspection and next steps: Once approved, repairs or replacements are scheduled; costs will be waived or prorated based on the warranty terms
A strong roof warranty gives you peace of mind, but you also deserve a roofing team that takes your home as seriously as you do.
At JP Carroll Roofing, we:
- Back our work with extensive warranties
- Offer certified installation backed by top national manufacturers
- Provide transparent warranty documents and personalized guidance
- Are local professionals who treat your property like our own
Whether you’re building new, replacing an aging roof, or just looking to understand your current coverage, we’re here to help.
Enjoy a Better Roofing Experience With JP Carroll
Roof warranties aren’t just pieces of paper; they’re your safety net. With New England’s rough weather and rising home costs, that protection matters more than ever.
At JP Carroll Roofing, we don’t just install roofing systems, we deliver peace of mind. If you’re ready for a roof that holds up to tough weather, comes with reliable warranty coverage, and gives you peace of mind for years to come, JP Carroll Roofing is here to help.
We’re local, we’re certified, and we care about doing things right the first time. From explaining warranties in plain English to walking you through material options, our team makes the process simple and stress-free. Contact JP Carroll Roofing today to schedule a free, no-pressure roofing consultation.
