You just got a brand-new roof, and it came with a warranty. Great news, right? A roof warranty can provide peace of mind, helping protect your investment from defects, poor workmanship, or damage. But what if your warranty suddenly became worthless due to a mistake? Unfortunately, many homeowners void their roof warranty without realizing it. You could unknowingly cancel protections that are part of a new roof’s cost and benefits.
To save yourself from a costly surprise, here are some of the most unexpected causes of roof warranty nullification—and how to avoid them.
Improper Roof Installation
You might assume that if a professional installs your roof, your warranty is automatically valid. Not necessarily. Many manufacturers have strict guidelines for how your contractor should install their materials. If your roof team cuts corners, uses improper techniques, or ignores manufacturer recommendations, that could void your warranty.
Choosing an experienced, trusted roofing contractor is important because you will have a better experience and receive a more reliable roof. But it’s also critical because failing to do so can lead to improper installation. That can mean leaks, a short roof life, and a voided warranty.
How to Avoid It: Choose a licensed, reputable roofing contractor with manufacturer certifications. Many roofing brands certify contractors who follow their guidelines, ensuring the warranty remains intact. Seeking out GAF certified roofers is one way to help ensure your roof is installed correctly and your warranty stays valid.
Installing a New Roof Over an Old One
Some homeowners opt to layer a new roof over an existing one to save money and time. While this may seem like a good idea, many manufacturers don’t allow it. Why? This kind of installation can trap moisture, add excessive weight, and prevent proper ventilation—all of which can cause your roof to fail prematurely.
In addition to creating warranty problems, adding a second layer of shingles to your existing roof can lead to structural damage, mold or mildew problems, and ice dams.
How to Avoid It: If you need a new roof, insist on a complete tear-off before the installation. It ensures a clean, solid foundation for your new roof and keeps your warranty intact.
Unapproved Roof Modifications
Do you love the idea of installing solar panels, satellite dishes, or skylights? We understand why, as these are all valuable features that can improve your quality of life and potentially even the value of your home. However, you should proceed with caution.
While these additions can be useful or stylish, they can also spell trouble for your roof warranty. Improperly installed modifications can cause leaks, structural damage, or shingle issues—voiding your warranty in the process.
How to Avoid It: Before modifying your roof, check your warranty’s terms and consult your roofing contractor or manufacturer. They may have approved installation methods or certified professionals that you can use to prevent warranty issues. That way, you can bask in the sun of your skylight while watching satellite TV powered by solar panels, without worrying about your roof warranty.
Insufficient Ventilation and Insulation
Your attic plays a significant role in your roof’s health. If your attic has poor ventilation, heat and moisture can build up, leading to shingle damage, mold growth, and structural issues. Many roofing warranties explicitly state that improper attic ventilation can void warranty coverage.
How to Avoid It: Have your attic inspected for proper ventilation and insulation. Work with a professional to install vents or insulation that meets manufacturer requirements if necessary.
DIY Roof Repairs or Maintenance
We get it—doing your own home improvement projects can be satisfying and cost-saving. But when it comes to your roof, DIY fixes might do more harm than good. You might void your warranty if you or an unlicensed handyman attempt repairs.
How to Avoid It: Always hire a professional for repairs and maintenance. If you must inspect your roof, use binoculars from the ground instead of walking on it, which can cause damage.
If the cost of roof repairs or replacement isn’t in your budget, roofing contractors that finance can help you get the work done when you need it and by experienced professionals so you don’t accidentally void your warranty.
Failing to Register Your Warranty
If you forget to register your warranty, you might not have a valid warranty at all. Some manufacturers require homeowners to complete registration within a certain period after installation.
How to Avoid It: Read your warranty documents carefully and complete any required registration immediately after installing your new roof. Ask your contractor about any registration requirements.
Ignoring Regular Roof Maintenance
A common but often overlooked cause of warranty voidance is neglect. Most roof warranties require periodic maintenance, such as clearing debris, checking for damage, and ensuring proper drainage. If you fail to keep up with maintenance, your warranty may be worthless when you need it most.
How to Avoid It: Schedule regular roof inspections, especially after severe weather. Keep gutters clean, remove debris, and document maintenance with photos and receipts.
Using Non-Approved Materials
Your roofing manufacturer likely specifies certain materials, nails, or adhesives that should be used for repairs or upgrades. If you or your contractor use cheap, off-brand, or incompatible materials, it could lead to premature failure—and a voided warranty.
How to Avoid It: Always use manufacturer-approved materials and double-check with your warranty provider before any repair or replacement work. Before work begins, verify with your contractor that all materials they will use are approved and meet the warranty terms.
A roof warranty can be a valuable safety net, but only if you follow its rules. By understanding common causes of warranty nullification, you can take steps to protect your investment. Read the fine print, keep up with maintenance, and always work with reputable professionals. A little diligence now can save you from major headaches—and major expenses—down the road.