You just had a new roof installed. It came with a 25-year or even a lifetime warranty, so you’re set, right?
Not exactly.
At Weather Vane Roofing, we’ve seen too many homeowners discover too late that their roof warranty doesn’t cover what they thought it did. A strong warranty is important, but even the best ones come with fine print and exclusions that could leave you paying out-of-pocket for repairs you assumed were protected.
This article breaks down what isn’t covered in most roof warranties and what Michigan homeowners need to watch for before relying on that “peace of mind.”
The Two Types of Roof Warranties (And Why It Matters)
1. Manufacturer Warranty
Covers the roofing materials (like shingles, underlayment, etc.). If they’re defective, the manufacturer may replace them.
2. Workmanship Warranty
Covers how the roof was installed. This is typically offered by the contractor and varies widely in length and quality.
Both have limitations, and knowing what each doesn’t cover is just as important as what they do.
What’s Not Covered in Most Manufacturer Warranties
❌ Improper Installation
If your roofer cuts corners: misaligned shingles, under-nailed flashing, poor ventilation, your manufacturer warranty is usually void. The materials may be fine, but if they were installed incorrectly, it’s on you (or your contractor).
👉 That’s why hiring a reputable roofer matters.
About Weather Vane Roofing
❌ Storm Damage or “Acts of God”
Wind, hail, falling trees, lightning, or ice dams? Not covered. Those fall under your homeowner’s insurance, not your roof warranty. If you experience storm-related issues, your first call should be to your insurer not the manufacturer.
👉 Learn how summer storms cause hidden damage:
How Michigan’s Summer Storms Can Quietly Damage Your Roof
❌ Lack of Maintenance
Your roof isn’t “set it and forget it.” Warranties often require proof of regular maintenance. If you neglect cleaning, ignore small leaks, or allow moss and debris to build up, you may void your coverage even if the issue looks like a materials failure.
❌ Improper Ventilation
If your attic has poor airflow, it can cook your shingles from the inside out or trap moisture that causes rot. Even though the shingle brand might promise 30 years, they won’t honor the warranty if there’s no ridge vent or intake system to meet code.
👉 Related read:
Why Roof Ventilation Must Come with Insulation
❌ Work Done by a Different Contractor
If you have someone else patch, repair, or modify your roof even for something minor, you could void your workmanship and manufacturer warranty. Always call your original roofer or someone authorized by the brand.
What’s Often Not Covered in Workmanship Warranties
❌ Damage Caused by External Systems
Installed solar panels or satellite dishes? If damage occurs during installation or removal, it’s typically not the roofer’s responsibility unless they did the work themselves.
❌ Gutter or Siding Leaks
If you experience leaks due to gutter backups, poorly maintained siding, or overflows from clogged downspouts, your roofer isn’t liable. That’s an exterior maintenance issue, not a roof installation error.
❌ Pest or Animal Damage
Squirrels, raccoons, birds, or insects that pull up flashing, chew through roof edges, or nest under tiles: not covered. These fall under homeowner maintenance or pest control.
What You Can Do to Stay Protected
Here’s how to get the most out of your roof warranty:
✅ Choose a certified installer – Many manufacturers offer extended warranties only if the roof is installed by their authorized contractors.
✅ Document inspections and repairs – Keep records of all roof work and inspections. This proves you’ve upheld your maintenance responsibilities.
✅ Read the fine print – Especially the “exclusions” section of your paperwork. If something’s unclear, ask your contractor or the manufacturer before there’s a problem.
✅ Don’t delay minor repairs – Small issues can snowball into bigger ones that void your coverage. Fix problems as soon as you spot them.
Need a Roof Warranty Review? We Can Help.
At Weather Vane Roofing, we walk our customers through their warranty coverage before we do any work so there are no surprises later. Whether you’re getting a new roof or need repairs on an existing one, we help you understand:
- What’s covered
- What’s excluded
- What to do to stay compliant
👉 Contact us today to schedule a roof inspection or warranty consultation.
A Warranty Is Only as Good as Your Understanding of It
A roof warranty can provide peace of mind but only if you understand its limits. By being proactive, choosing the right contractor, and staying up-to-date on maintenance, you can make sure your warranty works for you, not against you, when it matters most.
