Roof warranties can be a critical consideration, but their importance varies based on the type:

Material Warranty: Often, material warranties are of little practical value unless there's a rare issue with the materials themselves.

Contractor Warranty: These warranties depend heavily on the reliability of the contractor. Unfortunately, if the contractor goes out of business or changes names, the warranty may no longer be valid.

NDL Manufacturer Warranty: Backed by major manufacturers like Firestone, Carlisle, or GAF, an NDL warranty covers labor and materials without proration. However, it's important to note that it typically only covers leaks caused by poor installation or material defects. Other issues may not be covered.

Value in Oversight: The real value of an NDL warranty lies in the oversight provided by the manufacturer. Before issuing the warranty, the manufacturer inspects the installation to ensure it meets industry standards and their requirements. This oversight helps ensure that the roof was installed correctly.

Contractor Warranties vs. NDL Warranties: Contractor warranties are self-monitored and can be subjective when determining coverage. In contrast, NDL warranties involve an external review and correction process, providing more assurance of proper installation and potential warranty coverage.

In conclusion, while roof warranties offer varying degrees of protection, NDL warranties backed by major manufacturers stand out due to their comprehensive coverage and oversight, ensuring your roof is installed correctly and covered for specific issues.