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Roofing Basics
Warranty and Performance
The shingle warranty, your guarantee of peace of mind.
The ultimate performance of your roof is related to climate,
proximity to the coast, adverse environmental conditions such as high winds as
well as shingle quality. Determining which shingle is right for your home is
not only a question of color and style; it is also about the long-term
protection and confidence associated with a well-respected shingle warranty.
Do the job right the first time
The most common reason some warranty claims are deemed invalid is
improper installation. Manufacturers provide specific requirements of the
shingle application in order to guarantee the performance of the roof. Improper
ventilation is another cause of many complaints about shingles that appear
warped. If you are contracting out the job, make sure a quality roofer does the
installation.
Some important points to consider about a roofing warranty
Not all warranties are the same! Read the fine print:
Comprehensive coverage
The period immediately following installation is where most
manufacturing defects show up.
Pro-rationed coverage
Once the initial comprehensive coverage period is over, the roof
is guaranteed against failure for a certain number of years. The coverage gets
reduced proportionately depending on how many years its been since
installation. This period is a function of the shingle; thicker, heavier
shingles tend to be much more durable, and as such come with a longer warranty
period.
Wind warranty
Most shingles manufactured in Canada or in the United States
already comply with several government standards, which include wind resistance
values. It is not necessary to opt for shingles that exceed these values,
unless you reside in an environment that requires it. Special application
instructions, outlined in the manufacturer's warranty document, must be followed
for a higher wind resistance warranty.
Some manufacturers offer a wind warranty, which guarantees the roof
against blow-offs for a certain period of time. A supplemental wind
warranty is a great way to ensure peace of mind.
Material and labor coverage
Most manufacturers completely cover the cost of the new shingles;
some cover the labor needed to install them as well. Be careful! Sometimes
labor coverage is for a limited time and applies only for certain products.
There is also more to the roof than shingles! Make sure your shingle warranty
covers all materials, including underlayment, eave protection and metal
flashings.
Miscellaneous coverage
A true comprehensive warranty will cover miscellaneous services
above and beyond material and labor. Don't get caught with the cost of tearing
off the old shingles, unexpected disposal fees, or excluded underlayment costs.
Transferability
By choosing a shingle that offers performance and longevity,
you'll be adding value to your home. If you plan on moving, you should make
sure your roof warranty could be easily transferred to the new owners of the
house. Be warned, some manufacturers may charge additional fees or impose
limits on the transfer.
After-sales service
Manufacturers should recognize the long-term investment made by
you. Warranty claim information and contact details should be visible and
available. Manufacturers who stand by their warranty are usually willing to
send a specialist to the site to inspect and appraise the claim, then react
promptly once the claim is deemed legitimate.
 Many of the BP shingles, manufactured by Building Products of Canada Corp., are backed by the BP Five-Star Shingle Warranty. The most complete in the industry, this warranty covers all materials and labor (including tear-off and disposal too!). Some shingles come bundled with exceptional coverage, such as the BP Eclipse shingle. Eclipse is covered by a lifetime warranty with a full ten years of comprehensive 100% coverage. There's also no additional fees for transferring your warranty.
Having a quality roofing system installed will not only offer the
best protection and performance, but comforts you with confidence and peace of
mind.
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