How Important Are Warranties for Roofing, Siding, and Windows?

When investing in a new roof, siding, or replacement windows, homeowners often focus on the material, the installation, and of course the cost. But another critical factor often overlooked is the warranty. A strong warranty can save thousands of dollars in the future, yet not every contractor takes the time to explain warranty options properly. So let’s break it down in question form—because if you’ve ever wondered “Are warranties really important for roofing?” or “Why don’t all companies offer manufacturer warranties?” you’re not alone.

Are Warranties Important for Roofing in Southeast Michigan?

Yes, warranties are extremely important. In Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan, roofs and siding are constantly exposed to harsh conditions—snow, ice dams, windstorms, and humid summers. Even the best installation can’t prevent every potential issue that might arise years later. A warranty acts like insurance: it’s there to protect you in case something unexpected happens.

Without a warranty, any future repair costs fall entirely on you. With a warranty, you gain peace of mind knowing you’re covered—whether the issue is related to product defects or installation errors.

What Kinds of Roofing Warranties Are Available?

Not all warranties are created equal. Most roofing warranties fall into two categories:

Manufacturer’s Warranty – This covers the roofing materials themselves. If the shingles, underlayment, or accessories fail due to a defect, the manufacturer provides repair or replacement. Companies like Malarkey and CertainTeed offer excellent warranty programs that can last decades. This also covers labor, which does not mean the workmanship, or quality of the installation. It means the cost of the labor for the installation or repair in the future.
Workmanship Warranty – This comes from the contractor in most cases. It guarantees the installation quality. If the roof leaks because of improper flashing or poor nail placement, a workmanship warranty means the contractor should return and fix it.

A complete roofing warranty package should ideally cover both—materials and workmanship.

Why Don’t All Roofing Contractors Offer Manufacturer Warranties?

That’s a question every homeowner should ask: If a contractor can’t offer or doesn’t offer a manufacturer’s warranty, why not?

It’s actually not that difficult for roofing companies to become certified by manufacturers. Malarkey, CertainTeed, and other leading brands have certification programs. These programs require contractors to meet certain installation standards, prove insurance coverage, and commit to ongoing training.

If a contractor isn’t certified, it often means one of two things:

They haven’t taken the time to get trained and approved.
They don’t meet the manufacturer’s standards for professionalism, insurance, or reliability.

Either way, that should be a red flag. If a company isn’t willing or able to qualify for manufacturer certification, homeowners should ask themselves—is this really the contractor I want on my roof?

How Much Extra Should a Warranty Cost?

Another common question is: “How much more will a warranty cost me?” The answer is—not much.

Upgrading to the best manufacturer warranty usually costs an extra about $10-$20 per roofing square. On an average home in Southeast Michigan, that’s just a few hundred dollars extra for decades of coverage.

Unfortunately, many contractors either don’t explain this option or don’t bother to register the warranty online. The shocking truth is that sometimes warranties are “sold” to homeowners but never actually activated. That means the homeowner thinks they’re covered—but in reality, they’re not.

What Happens if a Warranty Is Never Activated?

Imagine paying for a premium warranty upgrade and finding out years later it was never registered. Sadly, this happens more often than homeowners realize.

There might be nothing wrong with the installation at all, but the entire point of a warranty is to act as insurance in case something does go wrong down the road. If the contractor doesn’t take the time to activate it, the homeowner is left unprotected.

That’s why it’s critical to confirm with the manufacturer directly that your warranty is active after installation. Don’t just take a contractor’s word for it—verify it yourself.

Do Malarkey and CertainTeed Have Good Roofing Warranties?

Yes, both Malarkey and CertainTeed are leaders in the industry when it comes to roofing warranties.

Malarkey Roofing Products – Known for their high-performance shingles and smog-reducing granules, Malarkey offers limited lifetime warranties that can be upgraded when installed by certified contractors. These warranties provide excellent coverage against material defects and even some workmanship issues.
CertainTeed – Their SureStart™ Plus warranty program is one of the best available. It covers both materials and labor costs in the event of a problem. When installed by a CertainTeed Select ShingleMaster contractor, homeowners can qualify for extended protection lasting decades and can be upgraded to include workmanship as well.

Both manufacturers stand behind their products, which is why it’s worth choosing a contractor certified by them.

Can You Trust a Contractor Without a Warranty Program?

Here’s another key question: Can you really trust a contractor who doesn’t offer a warranty?

While some smaller or newer companies might not have certification yet, homeowners should be cautious. If a contractor won’t or can’t provide a solid manufacturer-backed warranty, it’s fair to ask why. In most cases, trustworthy contractors see warranties as a benefit to their customers—not an inconvenience.

What Should You Ask a Contractor About Warranties?

If you’re considering hiring a roofing, siding, or window contractor in Southeast Michigan, make sure to ask these questions:

What manufacturer certifications do you hold?
Do you offer both a workmanship and a manufacturer’s warranty?
What steps do you take to activate and register my warranty?
Can I get written confirmation from the manufacturer once my warranty is active?
How much extra does it cost to upgrade to the best available coverage?

The way a contractor answers these questions tells you a lot about their professionalism and reliability.

Are Warranties Only Important for Roofing?

No, warranties are just as important for siding and windows. Southeast Michigan homes take a beating from the weather year-round. Proper siding protects against moisture, rot, and energy loss, while quality windows keep homes efficient and comfortable.

Like roofing, siding and window manufacturers also provide warranties—but only if products are installed by certified contractors. Without that certification, you may be left with limited coverage or none at all.

Do Warranties Really Protect Homeowners Long-Term?

Yes. Warranties provide long-term protection in several ways:

Financial Security – Unexpected repairs can cost thousands. A warranty minimizes those costs.
Peace of Mind – Knowing you’re covered lets you focus on enjoying your home instead of worrying about potential problems.
Resale Value – A transferable warranty can be a strong selling point when it comes time to sell your home.

Is It Worth Paying Extra for a Premium Warranty?

Absolutely. For just a small additional investment, premium warranties often provide:

Longer coverage periods.
Broader protection against defects.
Labor and tear-off costs included.
Transferability to future homeowners.

Considering that many roofing systems in Southeast Michigan cost $10,000–$20,000 or more, a few hundred extra dollars for top-tier warranty coverage is a smart choice.

Final Thoughts: Are Warranties Worth It for Roofing, Siding, and Windows?

Yes—they are essential. Warranties are not just pieces of paper; they’re safeguards that protect one of your biggest investments—your home. In Southeast Michigan, where weather can be harsh and unpredictable, warranties provide extra assurance that your roofing, siding, or windows will perform as expected.

But here’s the key takeaway: a warranty only matters if it’s valid and activated. Too many homeowners believe they have coverage, only to find out later their contractor never registered it. Don’t let that happen to you.

Choose a contractor certified by leading manufacturers like Malarkey and CertainTeed, confirm your warranty directly with the manufacturer, and invest in the best coverage available. A little effort upfront can save enormous stress and cost down the road.

How Important Are Warranties for Roofing, Siding, and Windows?