The GAF System Plus Warranty represents a significant commitment from GAF, a leading roofing manufacturer. Homeowners considering a new roof often weigh the benefits of this enhanced warranty against its cost. A key factor in this decision involves understanding the specific protection offered by the GAF System Plus Warranty, especially when compared to standard warranties or other available roofing systems.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Preserve Roofing , from the video titled GAF Certified System Plus Warranty from Preserve Roofing .
Understanding the GAF System Plus Warranty: A Comprehensive Breakdown
The GAF System Plus Warranty is a frequently discussed option for homeowners investing in a new roof. Determining whether it’s a worthwhile investment involves carefully examining its coverage, costs, and potential benefits. This explanation will provide a detailed look at the GAF System Plus Warranty, focusing on its components and considerations.
What is the GAF System Plus Warranty?
The GAF System Plus Warranty is an extended warranty offered by GAF, a leading roofing manufacturer, when their roofing products are installed by a GAF-certified contractor. It provides broader coverage than GAF’s standard warranties, offering protection against defects and, significantly, covering workmanship errors.
Key Components of the GAF System Plus Warranty
- Shingle Coverage: Covers manufacturing defects in GAF shingles. This often extends beyond the base warranty, covering the entire cost of replacement for a specific period (often the first 10 years) and prorating the cost thereafter.
- Accessory Coverage: Provides coverage for qualifying GAF roofing accessories, such as underlayment, starter strips, and leak barriers, when installed as part of a complete GAF roofing system. This is crucial, as these components play a significant role in the roof’s overall performance.
- Workmanship Coverage: This is arguably the most important aspect of the System Plus Warranty. It covers faulty workmanship by the installing contractor, which can cause leaks and other roofing issues. This coverage typically lasts for a specified period (e.g., 2 years or 10 years).
Factors to Consider When Evaluating the Value
Deciding whether the GAF System Plus Warranty is worth the investment requires careful consideration of several factors:
- Roof Complexity: Complex roofs with multiple valleys, skylights, or chimneys are more prone to installation errors. The added workmanship coverage can be especially valuable in these cases.
- Local Climate: Homes in regions with extreme weather conditions (heavy snow, high winds, intense sun) benefit from robust roofing systems and the protection afforded by extended warranties.
- Contractor Reputation and Certification: While using a GAF-certified contractor is a prerequisite for the System Plus Warranty, researching their history and reputation is still essential. The warranty serves as a safety net, but a highly reputable contractor minimizes the likelihood of needing it.
- Cost of the Warranty: The cost of the System Plus Warranty is added to the total roofing project cost. Homeowners should obtain a detailed quote that includes the cost breakdown of the roofing materials, labor, and warranty. It’s crucial to compare the cost of the System Plus Warranty with the cost of potential repairs in the absence of the warranty.
- Homeownership Duration: If you plan to sell your home within a few years, the transferability of the warranty can be a selling point. However, if you plan to live in the home long-term, the extended coverage may be more beneficial.
Comparing Warranty Levels
GAF offers several warranty levels, each with different coverage terms and costs. Understanding the differences is crucial to making an informed decision.
| Warranty Level | Shingle Coverage | Accessory Coverage | Workmanship Coverage | Contractor Requirement | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Limited (Base) | Material Defects | Limited | None | None | Standard protection against material defects |
| System Plus | Material Defects | Included | Specified Duration | GAF-certified | Covers faulty workmanship by the installing contractor |
| Golden Pledge | Enhanced | Enhanced | Longer Duration | GAF Master Elite | Highest level of coverage, including disposal costs |
Understanding the Fine Print
Before purchasing the GAF System Plus Warranty, carefully review the warranty document. Pay close attention to the following:
- Exclusions: Understand what is not covered by the warranty. Common exclusions include damage from natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, floods), improper ventilation, and alterations to the roof after installation.
- Transferability: Determine if the warranty can be transferred to a new homeowner and what the requirements are for transfer.
- Claim Process: Familiarize yourself with the steps required to file a warranty claim. This includes documentation, notification timelines, and inspection procedures.
- Maintenance Requirements: Understand any ongoing maintenance requirements necessary to keep the warranty valid. This might include regular inspections and cleaning.
GAF System Plus Warranty: Your Questions Answered
This FAQ section addresses common questions about the GAF System Plus Warranty to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your roofing project.
What does the GAF System Plus Warranty actually cover?
The GAF System Plus Warranty provides extended coverage beyond the standard GAF warranty. It covers manufacturing defects on GAF shingles and accessories, as well as workmanship errors for a period determined by the contractor’s installation level, offering broader protection for your entire roofing system.
How is the GAF System Plus Warranty different from the basic warranty?
The key difference lies in the scope and duration of coverage. The basic warranty typically covers only shingle defects, while the GAF System Plus Warranty includes coverage for improper installation, a common source of roofing problems, and it can be extended for a longer period. This provides significantly more peace of mind.
How much does the GAF System Plus Warranty typically cost?
The cost of the GAF System Plus Warranty depends on several factors, including the size and complexity of your roof, the GAF Master Elite contractor you choose, and the specific roofing system being installed. Get a quote from a qualified contractor for an accurate estimate, understanding that the added protection is an investment.
Is the GAF System Plus Warranty transferable if I sell my home?
Yes, the GAF System Plus Warranty is often transferable to a new homeowner, which can be a significant selling point if you decide to sell your property. This transferability can add value to your home and provide assurance to potential buyers regarding the roof’s condition and warranty coverage.
So, is the GAF System Plus Warranty worth it? That really depends on your needs and priorities. Weigh your options, do your research, and you’ll find the right fit. Hope this helps you decide if the gaf system plus warranty is for you!