Two Different Warranties Cover Two Different Things
When a roofing contractor mentions a warranty, it is worth clarifying which warranty they mean. Shingle manufacturers offer their own materials warranties — typically covering defects in the product itself over a defined period. A labor and installation warranty is separate: it covers defects in the contractor's workmanship. Both matter, and they protect different parts of your investment.
What a Labor and Installation Warranty Covers
A labor and installation warranty covers problems that result from how the roof was installed, rather than from the materials themselves. Common workmanship-related issues include improper nail placement, inadequate flashing at roof penetrations, insufficient ventilation setup, or errors in starter strip and ridge cap application. These are not manufacturer defects — they are installation defects, and a manufacturer's warranty will not cover them.
Why the Term Length Matters
A one- or two-year labor warranty is common in the industry. A 10-year labor warranty represents a significantly stronger commitment. It signals that the contractor is confident in the quality and consistency of their installation process. It also creates accountability: if an installation-related problem surfaces in year four or year seven, a 10-year warranty means you have a path to resolution at no additional cost.
What a Labor Warranty Does Not Cover
- Storm damage or acts of weather that occur after installation. Hail, wind, or falling debris are insurable events, not workmanship failures.
- Damage caused by the homeowner or third parties working on the roof.
- Normal aging or granule loss within expected material performance ranges.
Blue Ribbon Roofing's Warranty Commitment
Blue Ribbon Roofing backs every roof replacement with a 10-year labor and installation warranty. This is not a limited or conditional warranty filled with carve-outs — it covers the installation work we perform for a full decade. We believe a warranty should function as a straightforward commitment, and we stand behind our work accordingly.
