Most homeowners don’t think much about warranties until something goes wrong. And by then, the fine print matters a lot.
Here’s the deal with roofing warranties — there are two kinds, and most people only know about one of them.
The first is the manufacturer’s warranty. This covers defects in the shingle itself. If the shingle was made wrong and fails prematurely, the manufacturer (GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, etc.) will cover the materials. But here’s the catch: standard manufacturer warranties do NOT cover labor. So if your shingles fail 8 years in and you need them torn off and replaced, you’re paying a crew to do the work out of your own pocket. That can easily run $3,000-$5,000+ depending on the size of your roof.
The second type is a system warranty, and this is where things get interesting. GAF — the largest roofing manufacturer in North America — offers enhanced warranties that DO cover labor, but only if the installation is done by a GAF Factory-Certified contractor. That certification isn’t just a sticker. It requires ongoing training, proven track record, and using the complete GAF roofing system (not just their shingles, but their underlayment, starter strips, ridge caps, and ventilation too).
The GAF System Plus Warranty, which we carry, provides coverage on both materials AND installation labor. That means if something goes wrong due to a manufacturing defect or a workmanship issue, you’re covered. No surprise bills.
Why does this matter for you as a homeowner in Salt Lake City?
Because labor is the expensive part. Materials for an average roof replacement might run $3,000-$6,000. Labor is usually double that or more. A warranty that only covers materials is covering the cheaper half of the equation.
When you’re comparing quotes from different roofers, ask about warranty coverage. Not just “how long” but “what’s included.” A 25-year warranty that only covers shingle defects is worth a lot less than a warranty that covers materials and workmanship both.
It’s one of the reasons we went through the certification process — because we wanted to offer our customers something that actually protects them, not just something that sounds good on paper.
Ready to get your roof inspected? Call V3 Roofing at (385) 900-4618 for a FREE estimate.
