The roof is a very important part of the house, and also a sizeable investment, considering that a descent roof can set you back by upto $15,000 to $20,000. Thus it is only logical that you not only take good care of your roof, and maintain it, but also make sure to get maximum leverage out of the investment that you have made. After all, you wouldn't want to spend the same amount few years down the line to replace the roof. One of the ways to do this is to ensure that you get a roof warranty with the final price that you are paying for the roof. While roof warranty is very common, and comes with almost any roof purchase, there is no point in assuming that this will be the case. You should make sure by asking whether the roof warranty is being included in the final price.

The manufacturer usually gives the roof warranty, however, the contractor that is actually assembling you roof will act as a middle party. It is highly unlikely that the roof fitter will give a warranty. However, you should always make sure that you get the same warranty from the manufacturer. While this is usually bundled with the purchase, it is important to make sure before you agree upon the price. The terms and the time duration of the warranty will differ from company to company, as well as the type of roof that you have chosen for your house.

But it is imperative that the warranty should at least last for ten years, with the most preferable time frame being 20 years. If by any chance you are being offered a short warranty period, ask for an extension straight away. This can be done by some increased payment, and is the better way to go, than opt for a shorter warranty period. But don't expect a warranty period of 50 years or so.

The point to consider is that the warranty only becomes active at a certain point of time. This is when the roof has been fitted properly, and the same is approved, either by a third party consultant, or by manufacturer's own verifier. So it is important to have a good certified contractor that fits the roof in the way prescribed, because if he doesn't do his job properly, then it will have a direct effect on your warranty. These details of the warranty should be verified with the manufacturer while making the purchase.

Proper care should be taken at every stage when you are getting a new roof for the house. A third party should check the work done by your contractor so that your roof's manufacturer warranty doesn't lapse. Moreover, it is very important to fix the roof in the way recommended by the manufacturer as if it is not done properly it can lead to life long problems with the roof. If you are buying a second hand house that has an active roof warranty, enquire about what needs to be done to transfer the warranty in your name. This will usually require a roof inspection, and any repairs at your cost in the beginning, after which the warranty will continue in your name. This is usually a good idea, as it will not only ensure a good roof when you buy the property, and reduced costs over the years that the warranty is active.