GAF, CertainTeed, & More: Decoding Roofing Warranties in St. Louis

In St. Louis, where weather extremes like hailstorms and heavy snowfall are common, understanding roofing warranties is critical to protecting your home. Leading roofing manufacturers like GAF, CertainTeed, and others offer warranties that provide protection and peace of mind for St. Louis homeowners.

However, roofing warranties can be complex, with varying terms, conditions, and coverages. This guide will help you decode these warranties, so you can make informed decisions about your roofing project.

Why Roofing Warranties Matter

A warranty is a manufacturer’s promise to stand behind their product. In roofing, this translates to protection against defects in materials or workmanship. Should your roof fail prematurely due to a covered issue, the warranty can save you from costly repairs or even a full replacement.

Types of Roofing Warranties

Roofing warranties typically fall into three categories:

1. Manufacturer’s Warranty
   This warranty covers defects in the roofing materials themselves. Leading manufacturers like GAF and CertainTeed offer warranties that can range from 10 years to lifetime coverage, depending on the product line.
2. Workmanship Warranty
   Provided by the roofing contractor, this warranty protects against errors or poor installation. Reputable St. Louis contractors often include workmanship warranties ranging from 1 to 10 years.
3. Extended Warranty
   Some manufacturers and contractors offer extended warranties that provide additional coverage beyond the standard terms, often at an added cost.

Key Roofing Warranty Terms Explained

To make sense of roofing warranties, it’s essential to understand common terms:

• – Lifetime Warranty: Covers the expected lifespan of the roofing materials, typically 20-50 years. Lifetime does not always mean unlimited; details vary by manufacturer.
• – Proration: Over time, some warranties reduce the amount covered for material defects. Non-prorated warranties maintain full coverage for a specified period.
• – Transferability: This indicates whether the warranty can be transferred to a new homeowner, which can enhance property value if you sell your home.
• – Exclusions: Warranties often exclude certain types of damage, such as those caused by improper installation, severe weather, or lack of maintenance.

GAF Warranties

GAF, a leading roofing manufacturer, offers a variety of warranties, often tiered based on the contractor’s certification level. Here are some key GAF warranties:

• – GAF Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty: This is GAF’s most comprehensive warranty, offering lifetime coverage on materials and 50 years on workmanship. It’s only available through GAF Master Elite® contractors.
• – GAF Silver Pledge® Limited Warranty: Offers 50-year coverage on materials and 25 years on workmanship, available through GAF Certified™ contractors.
• – GAF System Plus Limited Warranty: A more basic warranty with coverage varying based on the shingles chosen.

Important Note: GAF warranties often require the use of a complete GAF roofing system (shingles, underlayment, starter strips, etc.) for full coverage.

CertainTeed Warranties

CertainTeed is another major player in the roofing industry, known for its wide range of shingle styles and colors. Their warranty options include:

• – SureStart PLUS™: This comprehensive warranty offers lifetime limited transferable coverage on shingles, along with specific coverage for labor and accessories. It requires the use of a complete CertainTeed roofing system installed by a CertainTeed credentialed contractor.
• – SureStart™: A strong warranty with 50-year coverage on shingles and 25 years on workmanship.

Comparing Warranties: GAF vs. CertainTeed

Comparing warranties helps you choose the right balance of protection and cost for your home.

Both brands offer excellent warranties, but choosing the right one often depends on your specific needs and budget.

Other Roofing Manufacturers in St. Louis

While GAF and CertainTeed are popular choices, St. Louis homeowners have access to other reputable brands, each with their own warranty offerings:

• – Owens Corning: Known for their TruDefinition® Duration® shingles, Owens Corning offers warranties with varying terms and conditions. Their top-tier warranty is only available through Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractors.
• – IKO: Offers a range of warranties, including their “Iron Clad Protection” which provides limited lifetime material coverage on certain shingles.

Tips for Understanding Your Warranty

• – Read the Fine Print: Don’t just rely on summaries. Carefully review the full warranty document to understand the details, limitations, and exclusions.
• – Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your roofing contractor to explain any warranty terms you don’t understand.
• – Keep Records: Maintain copies of your warranty documents and all related paperwork, including installation records and maintenance receipts.

Common Warranty Pitfalls to Avoid

Even the best warranties can be voided by common mistakes, including:

• – Improper Installation: Always choose a certified contractor to ensure compliance with manufacturer requirements.
• – Lack of Maintenance: Most warranties require regular inspections and maintenance to remain valid.
• – Unauthorized Repairs: Repairs performed by non-certified contractors can void the warranty.

Make an Informed Roofing Investment

Choosing a roofing warranty is as important as selecting the materials or contractor. By understanding the options offered by leading manufacturers like GAF and CertainTeed, St. Louis homeowners can make informed decisions that protect their investment for years to come.

For expert roofing advice, installations, and warranty guidance, contact Tesson Roofing & Exteriors. Our certified professionals are ready to help you navigate your roofing project with confidence.