The Average Warranty on Roof Repair

Time Length

• The average warranty for labor because of faulty workmanship is around five years, while the average warranty for the actual roofing materials is between 20 and 30 years. But if roofing materials are damaged because they were not properly installed, the warranty might be void.

Repair or Replace

• In some instances, you might be better off replacing a roof than repairing it, and a contractor might provide a longer warranty. If a few shingles are worn or damaged, then repairing the roof is probably the way to go. If more than one-third of the shingles are damaged, though, your best bet is to replace the roof. Insurance companies might cover the replacement cost if the roof was damaged by wind or storms.

Considerations

• A warranty is only as good as the company that offers it. Unscrupulous roofing companies often descend on a community after severe storm damage, repair or replace roofs cheaply and then disappear. If you need repairs down the road, the company might not be around. Although you may pay a bit more, selecting a company that's been in business for many years and has a good track record usually pays off in the long run. A company that belongs to the Better Business Bureau is also more likely to honor warranties.

Maintenance

• Regular roof maintenance can extend the life of the roof and prevent costly repairs that may or may not be covered by a warranty. Sweep debris and dirt from the roof and rain gutters at least annually and check all flashing and caulking to make sure it's in good repair. Glue down any loose shingles with asphalt adhesive.