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The Truth about Roofing Warranties. Are Lifetime Roofing Warranties Legitimate?


Learn more about lifetime roofing warranties
Roof Depot, Protecting What Matters

It's easy to fall for false promises! You might have come across it advertised during your daily routine.

"Lifetime Warranty" - roofing contractors in metro Atlanta and the North Georgia area commonly display it on their websites, print ads, vehicles, business cards, and agreements.

  • But what does the term "Lifetime Roofing Warranties" actually mean?

  • What does the warranty include?

  • Does it cover labor or materials?

These are all valid questions that homeowners should ask when looking for a roofing contractor to install a new roof.


How do roofing companies include lifetime warranties?


It's disheartening to report that some companies engage in fraudulent activity by luring customers with enticing phrases like "Lifetime Warranty" while hiding the truth in the fine print.

When it comes to assessing the value of a roofing warranty, it all hinges on the provider and the terms they offer. Trustworthy companies like Roof Depot, for example, provide homeowners with genuine protection and a sense of security. Moreover, they refrain from using the term "Lifetime Warranty" as a gimmick to lure in customers. Instead, they earn their customers' business through transparent, honest communication about their services, craftsmanship and pricing.


In reality, a lifetime warranty only covers faulty shingles for a period of 2 to 10 years. The so-called "Lifetime Warranty" is actually a "Manufacturers Warranty," which only covers a part of the shingles in case of a defect. Also, here is the clincher, manufacturer shingle warranties typically follow a "Pro-Rated System" after 10 years unless an upgraded warranty has been purchased and registered. It's important for homeowners to understand, there are several exclusions that are not covered under these warranties, such as:

  • Disposal of the removed roofing materials

  • Flashing

  • Pipe boots

  • Nails

  • Caulking

  • Other products not manufactured by the shingle manufacturer

  • Labor

  • Transfer of ownership

  • Regular Maintenance required

Again, it is only the shingle that is covered!


Labor? Transfer of Ownership? Regular Maintenance? Explained Further.


  1. Labor: Homeowners should be aware that this warranty does not cover the cost of labor for replacing the roof; that is the brunt of the cost of a roof replacement, which can add up to thousands of dollars.

  2. Transfer of Ownership: The lifetime coverage term is based on the registered warranty holder's lifespan, and usually, it CAN'T be transferred once the home is sold. It's essential to note that.

  3. Regular Maintenance: Needs to be performed and proven and is necessary to maintain the warranty, and failure to do so can result in voiding the warranty entirely.


It's also important to understand that the likelihood of encountering a manufacturer's defect on the shingles is low, and manufacturers are aware of this fact. As a result, they offer a lifetime warranty on the shingles only. Roofing problems, especially leaks, are often caused by poor roof installation and the quality of work done by the contractor. To minimize this risk, it's highly recommended to engage a trustworthy roofing company that has been in business for at least 25 years. For instance, Roof Depot offers reliable roofing services and provides clear and comprehensive Labor Warranties to guarantee the proper installation of your roof.


Are roofing company labor warranties legit?


Protecting What Matters
Roof Depot

Yes, if a reputable roofing company offers them and has clear terms and conditions. Reading and understanding the warranty before agreeing to any roofing work is important. A good reputation and track record of the roofing company is also crucial to ensure no issues with the warranty. A labor warranty from a roofing company covers defects or issues with the installation or workmanship of the roof but not damage caused by external factors like weather events like hail or wind damage. At Roof Depot, we offer a 25-year labor warranty for all residential roof replacements. As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, you can trust us to honor our warranty for many years to come.

If you are looking for a trusted straight-up roofing contractor to replace your aged, damaged roof, contact Roof Depot today and schedule a FREE Roof Analysis; we also provide our customers with our Insurance Claim Expertise. Read our blog "How to File a Roof Insurance Claim."

If your address has a history of weather events that might have damaged your roof from hail or wind damage, we can provide you with an instant damage report of your roof! Visit Roof Depot.

Also, you can take our Storm Damage Quiz to see if you qualify for a new roof.


Celebrating 25 Years
Roof Depot


Roof Depot office locations in Alpharetta, GA & Roswell, GA to serve North Georgia and beyond. Celebrating 25 years in business, Roof Depot has designed a system through training, certification, and experience that guarantees you the roof you deserve.

With a custom, innovative approach to roofing, we are with our customers every step of the way, from start to finish. We offer top-quality workmanship and products with an honest and dependable Roof Depot Team! Give us a call with any of your roofing needs at 1-800-MY-ROOFER!

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