What Roofing Warranties Actually Cover: A Guide for Roofing Company Clients in Ann Arbor
Understanding roofing warranties is one of the most overlooked parts of a roof replacement, yet for homeowners in Ann Arbor, MI, it may be the difference between a costly out-of-pocket repair and a fully covered fix. Before you sign any contract with a roofing company, knowing what each warranty covers can protect your investment for years to come.
Two Types of Roofing Warranties Every Homeowner Should Know
Most roofs come with two separate warranties that cover very different things.
Manufacturer Warranties cover defects in the roofing materials themselves. If a shingle cracks, curls, or fails earlier than it should, the manufacturer may replace the materials. These warranties come from the company that made the shingles, not the contractor who installed them.
Workmanship Warranties cover the quality of installation. If your roof leaks because of an installation error, such as improper flashing or poor sealing around a vent, a workmanship warranty may cover the repair. This warranty comes directly from your roofing contractor.
A strong manufacturer warranty does not protect you from poor installation. Both types of coverage work together. If a contractor only mentions one, ask about the other.
What Does a GAF System Warranty Actually Cover?
GAF system warranties may offer broader protection than a standard shingle warranty. Because the installer is GAF-certified, the warranty can cover both the materials and the installation as a complete system.
GAF offers several warranty tiers:
▸The Shingle and Accessory Limited Warranty covers manufacturing defects and includes a 10-year non-prorated protection period, meaning GAF covers 100% of material defect costs during those first ten years without reduction for age.
▸The Roofing System Limited Warranty may be available when a GAF Lifetime shingle is installed alongside at least three qualifying GAF accessories. This can extend the non-prorated protection period to 50 years and may include wind coverage with no maximum wind speed limit.
▸The System Plus, Silver Pledge, and Golden Pledge tiers offer increasingly comprehensive coverage, including extended workmanship protection, and are only available through contractors at specific GAF certification levels.
A GAF-certified roofing company serving Ann Arbor, MI, can walk you through which tier applies to your installation. Always ask for a copy of the warranty document before the project closes.
How Michigan Weather Can Affect Your Warranty Validity
Maintaining warranty coverage in Michigan requires more attention than in milder climates. Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County homeowners face heavy lake-effect snowfall, freeze-thaw cycles, and summer thunderstorms that stress a roof system significantly.
Most warranties include conditions that can void coverage if not followed:
▸Failing to keep gutters clear, which can cause ice dams along your roofline every winter
▸Allowing moss or algae to go untreated, which may degrade shingles over time
▸Installing a second layer of shingles over the existing roof without full tear-off, which some manufacturers do not allow
▸Improper attic ventilation, which traps heat and moisture and accelerates shingle deterioration
Proper
attic ventilation is a critical but often missed part of keeping a GAF warranty valid. After any major storm in Washtenaw County, have your roof inspected and document its condition to support any future warranty claim.
Questions to Ask Your Ann Arbor Roofer Before Signing
Before committing to a contractor, asking specific warranty questions can reveal a great deal about the quality of a roofing company and the value of their work.
1.What manufacturer warranty comes with the shingles, and what certification level does your company hold?
2.Do you offer a separate workmanship warranty, and how long does it last?
3.Will the installation qualify for a GAF system warranty, or only a basic shingle warranty?
4.What actions on my part could void either warranty?
5.Will you provide the warranty documents in writing at project completion?
A reputable local roofing company will answer all of these questions clearly. If a contractor is vague about warranty terms, that may be a sign to look elsewhere.
For
residential roofing services in Ann Arbor, always verify that your contractor is licensed, insured, and holds a current manufacturer certification before any work begins.
Does a Roofing Warranty Transfer if I Sell My Home?
Some GAF warranties may be transferable to a subsequent owner, though a transfer fee and time limit often apply. Transferability can add value when selling your home. Always confirm transfer terms in writing before assuming coverage carries over.
What Does "Lifetime" Mean on a Roofing Warranty?
In GAF's warranty language, "Lifetime" refers to coverage for as long as the original individual owner owns the property where the shingles were installed. It does not necessarily mean the life of the shingle itself, and coverage terms may differ for subsequent owners.
Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover Roofing Repairs?
Homeowner's insurance and roofing warranties are separate. Insurance may cover sudden storm or hail damage, while a warranty typically covers defects. In Michigan, filing an insurance claim without a proper inspection can complicate future coverage, so working with a trusted local roofer first is a smart step.
What Voids a Roofing Warranty?
Common causes include unauthorized repairs, improper attic ventilation, installation over a non-approved substrate, or failure to use matching manufacturer accessories. Always consult your roofer or the warranty documentation before making any changes to your roof.
Get Honest Warranty Guidance From a GAF-Certified Team
PD Home Exteriors is a GAF-certified roofing company serving Ann Arbor, MI, and the greater Washtenaw County area with more than 30 years of experience in residential roofing. The team can explain which warranties apply to your project, clarify what is and is not covered, and provide all documentation in writing at project completion.
Call (888) 582-2343 or contact us online to schedule your free roof inspection and estimate. You can also read verified reviews on the PD Home Exteriors Google Business Profile.
