What is the difference between manufacturer warranty and workmanship warranty?
A manufacturer warranty covers defects in roofing materials themselves, while a workmanship warranty covers installation errors or labor defects by the contractor.
Two separate protections apply to most roofing jobs in Connecticut. A manufacturer warranty covers defects inherent to the roofing materials-shingles, flashing, underlayment, or sealant that fail due to manufacturing flaws or material breakdown. This protection comes directly from the shingle maker or material supplier and typically lasts 20 to 50 years depending on the product line. The contractor does not issue this warranty.
A workmanship warranty, by contrast, covers the quality of installation. It protects you if the contractor improperly installed shingles, flashing, or ventilation, or if their labor caused water penetration, fastening failures, or premature deterioration. Workmanship warranty terms vary by contractor and typically run 5 to 10 years, though some offer longer coverage.
Both matter because a roof can fail for either reason. A manufacturing defect in the shingle itself is the material maker's liability. Poor installation-such as loose fasteners, improper overlap, or incorrect flashing detail-is the contractor's liability. When problems emerge, you need to know which party holds responsibility so the right party covers repair or replacement. When hiring a roofing contractor in Connecticut, confirm both warranties in writing before work begins.