If you’re shopping for a new roof, you’ve probably heard the phrase:
"It comes with a lifetime warranty."
But what does that really mean? And how do you know if you're truly protected?
At Nest Exteriors, we believe in educating homeowners so you know what you’re signing — and what to expect if your roof ever needs service down the line.
This guide breaks down the difference between standard and enhanced warranties, what most contractors won't tell you, and what Nest includes in every qualified installation.
1. Standard Manufacturer Warranty
You might think a standard manufacturer's warranty should be sufficient. But when you select this warranty, you can get stuck with labor and installation costs, prorated coverage, or other surprises.
What It Covers:
- Defects in the roofing material (usually shingles)
- Applies to the shingles themselves
Typical Terms:
- Labeled as "lifetime," but only non-prorated for the first 10 years
- After year 10, coverage drops each year (called "proration")
- Labor not included unless specifically noted
- Only valid if roof was installed correctly — and to the manufacturer’s specifications
Common Misunderstandings:
- "Lifetime" doesn’t mean forever. It means "as long as you own your home" — and may not transfer to the next homeowner.
- If your contractor skips ventilation or uses off-brand components, the warranty can be voided.
2. Enhanced Manufacturer Warranty
This is the warranty that truly delivers full protection — and it’s only available through credentialed installers like Nest Exteriors.
What It Covers:
- 100% of materials and labor for repairs or replacements
- Protection against manufacturing defects for up to 50 years, non-prorated
- Includes disposal and tear-off costs
Requirements:
- Must install a complete roofing system (all components from the same brand)
- Must use a certified contractor (like Nest Exteriors)
- Must register the warranty after installation
Example: CertainTeed SureStart™ PLUS 5-Star Warranty
The CertainTeed Five-Star Warranty, part of the SureStart PLUS™ program, offers extended coverage for CertainTeed roof systems installed by CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster contractors like Nest Exteriors. This is CertainTeed's highest level of protection, offering:
- Up to 50 years of non-prorated coverage on materials and labor
- 25 years of workmanship coverage, backed by the manufacturer
- Coverage for all system components: shingles, underlayment, flashing, ventilation, and more
- Coverage for installation errors, not just material defects
- Non-prorated coverage: full cost of replacement, not reduced by age
- Transferability: some levels may be transferred to future homeowners
The SELECT ShingleMaster designation ensures that the contractor meets rigorous training, product knowledge, and customer service requirements. This credential gives homeowners confidence that their roofing system is installed to the highest industry standards.
3. Workmanship Warranty (The Contractor's Guarantee)
This warranty covers installation-related issues. Even if the shingles are perfect, poor workmanship can cause leaks and damage.
What Most Contractors Offer:
- 1 to 5 years (if any)
- Often not in writing
What Nest Offers:
- A 10-year workmanship warranty on all full roof replacements
- Backed by our CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster certification
- We fix any install-related issues quickly, professionally, and with zero runaround
4. How Nest Exteriors Protects Your Roof — and Your Warranty
When you choose Nest for your roof replacement, we:
- Install a complete CertainTeed Integrity Roof System (shingles, underlayment, starter strips, flashing, ridge caps, and ventilation)
- Use only certified crews trained in manufacturer best practices
- Register your warranty with the manufacturer for full enhanced protection
- Provide a 10-year workmanship warranty that covers installation-related issues
- Offer clear documentation, including your warranty certificate and roof photos
Summary Comparison
Here is a side-by-side comparison of the three warranty types discussed in this article.
Want Your Roof Covered the Right Way?
A warranty only works when the roof is done right. Nest Exteriors delivers proper installation, certified systems, and full documentation so your warranty actually protects you.
Book a Complimentary Roofing Estimate Today
Get a roof built to last — and a warranty that means what it says.
Nest Exteriors | Roofing. Siding. Gutters. Windows. Doors. Peace of Mind.
