Category: Warranty

Roofing Warranties Explained: Part 1– Workmanship

Your roof has a big job, and a lot can go wrong with it. If it begins to fail, should you blame the shingles, the contractor, or yourself? To keep the lines of responsibility clear, contractors and manufacturers have warranties that promise to uphold certain expectations. But also help them avoid liability for problems that are reasonably beyond their control.

More…

Your roof has a big job, and a lot can go wrong with it. If it begins to fail, should you blame the shingles, the contractor, or yourself? To keep the lines of responsibility clear, contractors and manufacturers have warranties that promise to uphold certain expectations but also help them avoid liability for problems that are reasonably beyond their control.

More…

Sometimes… some things… are too good to be true. And sometimes, intentions are good, but actions can have a negative impact with a domino effect. The roofing industry is facing one of these situations today.

In early 2011 a national roofing and ventilation manufacturer rolled out an enticing offer, “every GAF laminated shingle, including all Timberline^® shingles—the #1-selling shingles in North America—will be covered by a lifetime ltd. Warranty…”. See the full story here.

The problem, this is an unrealistic and unsustainable promise. Why? Because no product (to date) has delivered on such a promise. The technology/product and proof simply doesn’t exist…yet.

Like all products, shingles have a lifecycle, and you get what you pay for. Some people can afford the “good” solution, while others are able to invest in the “better” or “best” option. GAF is essentially offering a LIFETIME warranty on their lowest-end, “good” shingle. Does this make any sense to you?

The problem is causing a hardship on reputable roofing contractors who have been in business for decades, who know better, and would never make such a bold and unrealistic offer to their customers. Buyer’s perceptions are being confused and distorted, and causing unrealistic expectations.

With over 30+ years of experience, Pacific West Roofing knows a “good” shingle has a realistic lifespan of 16-19 years, a ”better” shingle can give you 22-26 years, and “best” can reap you up to 28-32 years. And if anyone tells you otherwise, it will likely result in a warranty default, a roofing contractor bankruptcy, or even worse, costly litigation on YOUR part.

There are myriad ways a warranty can be exploited, and unfortunately the consumer is usually on the wrong end of the stick. Keep in mind (depending on the state in which you live) warranties have a statute of limitations, and contractors can use this to their advantage.

At Pacific West Roofing, we’ve got you covered. Please don’t believe everything you hear. And if you have any questions, or concerns, you know where to find us…503-635-8706.