Understanding Roof Warranties Before You Buy

July 12, 2025

A new roof is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your home. As a homeowner in Keller, TX, you’re no stranger to unpredictable weather and the toll it can take on your roof over time. That’s why understanding roofing warranties before making a purchase is essential—not only to protect your financial investment, but also to ensure long-term peace of mind.

Whether you’re planning a full roof replacement or just reviewing your coverage options, this guide will help you make informed decisions before signing any contracts.

Why Roofing Warranties Matter

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against rain, hail, wind, sun, and storm damage. A warranty doesn’t just provide reassurance—it defines what will be covered if something goes wrong. Without the right warranty, you could be on the hook for thousands in repairs or replacement costs.

Roofing warranties can vary dramatically depending on the manufacturer, materials, and contractor. In Keller, TX, where hailstorms and wind events are common, knowing your warranty’s fine print is just as important as choosing the right shingles.

The Two Main Types of Roofing Warranties

Most roofing systems come with two categories of warranties, each offering different levels of coverage:

1. Manufacturer’s Warranty

This type of warranty is provided by the roofing material manufacturer and typically covers defects in the roofing materials themselves. These warranties can range from 20 years to lifetime coverage, depending on the product and brand.

Key things to check in a manufacturer’s warranty:

  • Length of coverage
  • What materials are included (e.g., shingles, underlayment)
  • Transferability if you sell your home
  • Prorated vs. non-prorated terms over time

Many reputable brands also offer enhanced warranties if your roof is installed by a certified contractor.

2. Workmanship or Contractor Warranty

This warranty is offered by the roofing contractor and covers errors made during installation. Even the best shingles won’t perform properly if installed incorrectly, so this warranty is critical.

Contractor warranties usually range from 1 to 10 years, but high-quality contractors may offer longer terms or even lifetime labor guarantees. However, this coverage is only as reliable as the company backing it—so always choose an established, insured, and certified local roofer.

In Keller, TX, homeowners consistently trust KangaRoof for expert installation and transparent warranty terms. KangaRoof is both an OC Preferred and Emerald Premium Contractor, meaning their workmanship meets the highest industry standards and qualifies for top-tier manufacturer warranties.

Common Warranty Pitfalls to Watch For

While warranties are designed to protect you, there are important limitations and exclusions to understand:

  • Improper installation voids many warranties: If you choose an unlicensed or inexperienced contractor, the manufacturer may deny future claims.
  • Poor ventilation or attic insulation can lead to moisture buildup and shingle damage—voiding coverage.
  • Storm or hail damage is typically covered under your home insurance, not a roof warranty.
  • Lack of maintenance (like failing to clean gutters or fix small issues) can disqualify you from filing a valid claim.
  • Third-party modifications (such as satellite dish installation) can void coverage in affected areas.

Understanding what’s not covered is just as important as knowing what is.

What to Ask Before You Buy

Before you commit to a roof replacement or upgrade, ask your contractor the following:

  • What type of manufacturer warranty comes with the materials?
  • Is the warranty prorated or non-prorated?
  • Are there upgrade options available for longer or extended coverage?
  • What labor or workmanship warranty do you provide?
  • Will the warranty transfer to a new owner if I sell the home?

A reputable contractor should walk you through all documentation and register your warranty for you after installation.

Don’t Forget to Register Your Warranty

Many manufacturer warranties require registration within a certain window—often 30 to 60 days after installation. Failing to register could nullify your coverage entirely. Work with your contractor to ensure all paperwork is submitted correctly and on time.

KangaRoof not only provides expert installation in Keller, but also assists with warranty registration and homeowner education to ensure full protection from day one.

Upgrading to Enhanced Warranties

Some roofing systems allow for warranty upgrades if installed by certified contractors. These enhanced warranties may include:

  • Extended coverage up to 50 years
  • Non-prorated coverage throughout the life of the roof
  • Coverage for workmanship and installation errors
  • Full-system protection, including underlayment, ridge vents, and flashing

While these upgrades may cost more upfront, they provide unmatched peace of mind—especially in storm-prone areas like Keller.

Final Thoughts: Read the Fine Print, Protect Your Roof

A solid roof protects your home. A solid warranty protects your roof. Before signing off on any roofing project, make sure you understand exactly what’s covered, how long coverage lasts, and what steps you need to take to keep your warranty valid.

In Keller, TX, homeowners looking for both premium roofing solutions and rock-solid warranty support turn to KangaRoof. Their expert team ensures your investment is protected from the very beginning, using top-quality materials and certified installation techniques that meet the strictest warranty requirements.

Read also our blog: How to Keep Your Roof Protected from Texas Weather

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