Do roofing companies in Winnipeg offer warranties on their work?

When investing in a Winnipeg roofing project, whether it’s a roof repair or a full replacement, understanding the warranties provided by roofing companies is crucial. A warranty not only provides peace of mind but also ensures that you are covered if any issues arise after the project is completed. In this article, we’ll discuss the types of warranties commonly offered by roofing companies in Winnipeg, what they typically cover, and how to ensure you’re fully protected.

1. Types of Warranties Offered by Winnipeg Roofing Companies

Roofing companies in Winnipeg typically offer two main types of warranties: manufacturer warranties and workmanship warranties. Both are essential, but they cover different aspects of your roofing project.

Manufacturer Warranties

A manufacturer warranty covers the materials used in the roofing system. This type of warranty is provided by the manufacturer of the roofing materials, such as shingles, underlayment, or metal panels, and typically lasts anywhere from 20 to 50 years depending on the material.

Key Features:

• Coverage: Covers defects in the materials themselves, such as faulty shingles or incorrect manufacturing.
• Transferability: Many manufacturer warranties are transferable, which can increase the resale value of your home.
• Conditions: Manufacturer warranties often require specific installation practices to be followed in order to remain valid.

If you’re opting for a particular type of roofing material, such as asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or tiles, it’s important to review the manufacturer’s warranty details to ensure it covers the conditions of your Winnipeg roofing project.

Workmanship Warranties

A workmanship warranty covers the quality of installation provided by the roofing contractor. This type of warranty ensures that if any issues arise due to poor workmanship, the roofing company will address and fix the problem at no extra cost.

Key Features:

• Duration: Typically lasts between 1 to 10 years, depending on the roofing company and the project’s scope.
• Coverage: Covers issues that arise due to improper installation, such as leaks, loose shingles, or inadequate ventilation.
• Enforcement: If the roofing contractor doesn’t address issues that arise during the warranty period, homeowners can seek repair or compensation.

Workmanship warranties are especially important because they protect against errors made during the installation process. These errors can lead to major roofing problems in the future if not addressed.

2. What is Covered Under a Winnipeg Roofing Warranty?

The coverage of both manufacturer and workmanship warranties can vary from company to company. Understanding what is covered under these warranties can help you determine the best roofing company for your project.

Coverage Under Manufacturer Warranties

• Defective Materials: If the roofing materials are defective, such as cracked shingles, curling, or excessive wear, the manufacturer will usually replace the materials at no cost.
• Material Failures: Some manufacturer warranties cover material failures that occur due to manufacturing defects, such as fading or discoloration.

Coverage Under Workmanship Warranties

• Installation Defects: If the roof was installed improperly, such as issues with flashing or poor sealing around vents, the roofing company will typically be responsible for repairs.
• Leaks: If a leak develops due to poor installation practices, the contractor will usually fix it under the workmanship warranty.
• Structural Issues: Problems that stem from incorrect installation, such as sagging or collapsed sections of the roof, should be covered.

What May Not Be Covered

• Normal Wear and Tear: Both types of warranties may not cover damage from normal wear and tear, aging, or changes due to weathering.
• Storm Damage: Extreme weather events, such as hailstorms, tornadoes, or strong winds, are often not covered by manufacturer or workmanship warranties, though separate insurance may help with repairs.
• Negligence or Misuse: Damage caused by neglect or improper maintenance (e.g., failing to clear gutters or heavy foot traffic on the roof) may not be covered by warranties.

3. How to Ensure Proper Warranty Coverage for Your Winnipeg Roofing Project

To ensure that you are fully covered, it’s important to take certain steps when working with roofing companies in Winnipeg.

1. Choose a Reputable Roofing Company

Selecting a reputable, experienced roofing company is the first step in ensuring that your warranty is valid. Always look for companies that are licensed, insured, and have positive customer reviews. Established roofing companies are more likely to stand behind their workmanship and provide comprehensive warranties.

2. Review the Terms of the Warranty

Before committing to a roofing company, thoroughly review the warranty terms. Ensure that the warranty includes both material defects and installation errors. Make sure the coverage period is appropriate for your needs, and ask questions about what is excluded from the warranty.

3. Verify Manufacturer Warranty Requirements

Manufacturer warranties often have specific installation requirements that must be followed to remain valid. Check to ensure that your roofing company is certified to install the type of roofing material you have chosen. Many manufacturers require certified contractors to perform the installation to honor the warranty.

4. Get Written Agreements

Always request written documentation for both the manufacturer and workmanship warranties. This ensures that you have proof of coverage in case you need to file a claim in the future.

4. The Importance of Regular Roof Maintenance

To maximize the lifespan of your roof and avoid potential warranty issues, it’s essential to maintain your roof regularly. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify issues before they become serious problems and may even be required by the terms of your warranty.

Common Maintenance Tasks:

• Inspecting for Damage: Regularly inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or issues with flashing.
• Cleaning Gutters: Keep gutters clear to prevent water buildup, which can lead to roof damage.
• Trim Overhanging Branches: Trim branches that could potentially fall on the roof and cause damage.

Most roofing warranties will specify that routine maintenance is necessary to maintain coverage. Ensure that you follow these maintenance guidelines to prevent accidental voiding of the warranty.

5. Conclusion

Roofing warranties are an essential part of your Winnipeg roofing project, providing you with peace of mind that any issues with the materials or installation will be addressed. Both manufacturer and workmanship warranties offer different types of coverage, and it’s important to understand the specifics of each. By choosing a reputable roofing company, reviewing warranty terms, and maintaining your roof regularly, you can protect your investment and ensure that your roof lasts for many years. Always remember to get everything in writing and verify that the terms of the warranty match your expectations before beginning your roofing project.