How Roofing Warranties Work — And What Boise Homeowners Should Know Before Signing

What Is a Roofing Warranty and Why It Matters

A roofing warranty is your safety net. It provides peace of mind that if something goes wrong with your roof, you have protection in place. Warranties help cover the cost of repair or replacement in certain situations, but not all warranties are created equal.

Understanding the fine print can make the difference between a fully covered repair and a major out-of-pocket expense.

Manufacturer Warranty vs. Workmanship Warranty: What’s the Difference?

1. Manufacturer Warranty

This covers the roofing materials themselves, such as shingles, underlayment, and flashing. If the materials are defective or fail earlier than expected under normal conditions, the manufacturer may cover replacement costs. These warranties often range from 20 years to lifetime, depending on the product.

But here’s the catch — most manufacturer warranties only apply if the roof was installed correctly and maintained properly. That’s where the second type comes in.

2. Workmanship Warranty

This is the warranty offered by your roofing contractor and covers installation errors. If something was installed incorrectly and causes leaks or damage down the road, the contractor is responsible for fixing it within the warranty period.

At Madison Roofing, we back our work with a strong workmanship warranty so you know you’re covered on both fronts.

What’s Usually Covered — And What’s Not

Warranties can vary by manufacturer and contractor, but here’s a general idea of what to expect:

Typically Covered:

• Material defects (like shingles that crack or lose granules prematurely)
• Roof system failure caused by faulty materials
• Leaks caused by improper installation (if covered under a workmanship warranty)

Usually Not Covered:

• Storm damage, hail, or wind beyond the rated limit
• Improper maintenance or homeowner-installed additions (like satellite dishes)
• Normal aging or general wear and tear
• Damage caused by other trades or construction activity

Some warranties are “prorated,” meaning coverage decreases over time. Others are “non-prorated” for a set period and offer full coverage within that window. Always ask which type you’re getting.

Common Misunderstandings That Can Void Your Warranty

Homeowners sometimes do things unknowingly that cancel out their coverage. To avoid that, keep the following in mind:



• Using unapproved materials or mixing brands can void the manufacturer’s warranty
• Skipping annual inspections or maintenance can cancel out coverage
• Adding attic vents, solar panels, or other rooftop equipment after installation without proper flashing can lead to leaks that aren’t covered
• Hiring an uncertified contractor for repairs on a warrantied roof may nullify both workmanship and manufacturer coverage

At Madison Roofing, we document every project and use only approved systems to ensure your warranty remains valid from day one.

What Madison Roofing Guarantees with Every Roof Installation

We know that a warranty is only as good as the company behind it. That’s why we:

• Register your manufacturer warranty on your behalf
• Offer clear workmanship coverage with no fine-print surprises
• Use certified installers trained in each product we offer
• Educate you on maintaining your roof to keep your warranty intact
• Provide full documentation and warranty certificates after installation



Whether you’re installing a new roof or replacing an old one, we make sure you’re protected.

Ready for a Roof That Comes with Real Peace of Mind?

Choosing a roofing contractor is about more than materials and price — it’s about trust. At Madison Roofing, we stand by every roof we install and give you the knowledge and warranty protection to back it up.

Contact us by filling out our online form or call (208) 344-5379 to schedule an inspection and experience the benefits of working with a trusted local roofer.