Metal Roof Warranties: What Homeowners Need to Know
Investing in a metal roof for your home is a significant financial commitment.
While metal roofs are praised for their durability, longevity, energy efficiency, and minimal maintenance requirements, like all significant investments, it comes with the need for protection through warranties.
While we do not provide metal roof installation, Rescue My Roof has been working with homeowners for over a decade. We understand that a good warranty can protect your home and family for a lifetime.
This article aims to demystify metal roof warranties, highlighting what homeowners should look for and expect.
What Roof Warranties Do You Get With A Metal Roof Replacement?
Metal roofing warranties can be categorized into two primary types: manufacturer warranties and workmanship warranties.
- Manufacturer Warranties: These warranties cover the material of the metal roof itself. They can protect against manufacturing defects that could cause the roof to fail prematurely. The duration and coverage details can vary significantly from one manufacturer to another, typically ranging from 20 to 50 years.
- Workmanship Warranties: Offered by the roofing contractors, these warranties cover errors in installation. The length and specifics of these warranties can vary widely depending on the con
Here are some of the more specialized warranties you can get with metal roofs:
1. Paint Finish Warranty
Unlike asphalt shingles, a metal roof doesn’t come with a warranty on the roofing materials themselves. Instead of a material warranty, your new metal roof comes with a paint warranty for the protective coating (painted finish) on the metal roof panels.
The painted finish is crucial for protecting the color on your metal roof panels and from the wear and tear a roof experiences throughout its life. But the type of paint warranty you get depends on the type of metal roof.
For a standing seam metal roof, you’ll have a painted finish called Kynar 500 on your metal panels. Kynar 500 is applied to the standing seam metal roof panels through a patented process to ensure the coating complies with the licensing agreement.
As long as it’s applied correctly, your standing seam metal roof will have a 30-year warranty on the Kynar 500 painted finish. Be aware, this painted finish is only on standing seam metal roof panels.
A screw down metal roof’s paint warranty depends on the kind of painted finish used on the steel or aluminum panels. You’ll still have color options for your metal panels, but it’ll have a different painted finish than Kynar 500 that fades a lot quicker and won’t last as long.
2. The Roofing Company’s Workmanship Warranty
Every roofing contractor should offer a warranty on their workmanship. This warranty is in place to protect you from careless or lazy work.
Your roofing contractor’s workmanship warranty only covers the work while installing your metal roof. This means if your metal roofing materials fail or you have leaks because of improper installation, then your contractor is on the hook to fix the problem.
The length of workmanship warranties varies from contractor to contractor. They usually go from 2, 5, 10, or 25 years. Some companies even give lifetime warranties.
Your contractor’s workmanship should hold up as long as the materials on your roof hold up. That’s why it’s crucial to hire a roofing contractor that offers a lifetime warranty or close to it (25 years).
Key Elements to Understand in Metal Roof Warranties
- Length of Warranty: The duration of the warranty is crucial. A longer warranty may offer more peace of mind, but understanding the specifics of what is covered during this period is essential.
- Transferability: Some warranties are transferable to new homeowners, which can be a selling point if you plan to sell your home. Check the process and any conditions attached to transferring the warranty.
- Prorating: Many manufacturers prorate their warranties over time. This means the coverage for repair or replacement diminishes as the roof ages. Understanding the prorating schedule is vital to setting realistic expectations.
- Exclusions: Warranties often come with exclusions. These can include damage from external forces (like extreme weather), improper installation, or failure to maintain the roof according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Maintenance Requirements: Some warranties require homeowners to perform regular maintenance and inspections to keep the warranty valid. Knowing these requirements can help ensure that your warranty protection remains in place throughout its term.
- Material vs. Color: Be aware that some warranties might cover the integrity and functionality of the roofing material but not the color or finish of the metal roof. Fading or chalking over time might not be covered.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Warranty
Choosing the right warranty involves more than just seeking the longest coverage period. Homeowners should consider the reputation of the manufacturer and contractor, the specifics of what is covered, and the conditions that might void the warranty.
It’s also wise to read reviews and talk to past customers about their experiences with warranty claims.
Finding the Perfect Metal Roofing Warranty
Metal roof warranties offer a layer of financial protection and peace of mind for homeowners making a considerable investment into a metal roofing system.
Understanding the nuances of these warranties—what they cover, what they don’t, and how long they last—is crucial in making an informed decision. Always read the fine print, ask questions, and ensure that both the product and the installation are backed by robust warranties.
With the right warranty in place, homeowners can enjoy the myriad benefits of their metal roof, secure in the knowledge that their investment is protected for years to come.
Learn more about warranties with “All About Atlas’ Shingle Warranty” and “Comparing Shingle Manufacturers: 3 Key Considerations.”
While Rescue My Roof does not offer metal roof installation, we can help walk you through warranty coverage or find a compatible asphalt shingle roof. If you’re looking for a roofing company in southeastern Wisconsin, let us be the ones to guide you.
Contact us today to get a free roof estimate.
