What Homeowners Should Know About Shingle Roof Warranties in Ontario
When you invest in a new roof, you expect it to last for decades — but not all warranties offer the same level of protection. Understanding how roofing warranties work can help you avoid surprises down the road and ensure your home stays protected for years to come.
As a GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed ShingleMaster, BP Certified Weather-Tite Roofer and IKO Select Roof Pro certified contractor, Nailed It Roofing & Construction helps homeowners across the GTA understand and maximize their roof warranty coverage.
The Types of Roof Warranties
Every shingle roof typically comes with two distinct warranties:
- Manufacturer’s Warranty – Covers defects in the shingles or roofing materials themselves. Major manufacturers like GAF, IKO, CertainTeed and BP offer limited lifetime warranties on many of their shingle lines.
- Workmanship Warranty – Provided by your roofing contractor, this covers installation errors or workmanship-related issues such as improper nailing, flashing, or ventilation.
Tip: Your roof’s long-term performance depends as much on the installer’s expertise as the materials used. Choosing a certified contractor ensures you qualify for extended manufacturer warranties.
“Lifetime” Doesn’t Always Mean Forever
Many shingles advertise “lifetime” warranties, but that doesn’t necessarily mean coverage lasts forever. For most manufacturers, the first 10 to 15 years are covered in full under a non-prorated period, which means both materials and labour may be covered at 100%. After that, coverage becomes prorated, meaning the reimbursement amount decreases as your roof ages.
The exact terms vary by manufacturer, as shown below:
| Manufacturer | Non-Prorated (Full Coverage) Period | After That | Notes |
| GAF | 10 years for most shingles | Becomes prorated after 10 years | Can be extended to 50 years (non-prorated) with System Plus, Silver Pledge, or Golden Pledge warranty when installed by a GAF Master Elite contractor |
| CertainTeed | 10 years under SureStart Protection | Prorated after 10 years | Can extend coverage up to 50 years with SureStart PLUS warranty through a ShingleMaster contractor |
| BP (Building Products of Canada) | 15 years under Weather-Tite Protection | Prorated after 15 years | Coverage can be extended up to lifetime protection when installed by a BP Certified Weather-Tite Roofer |
| IKO | 15 years on many lines (e.g., Cambridge, Dynasty) | Prorated after 15 years | Extended warranty available through IKO RoofPro Select contractors |
Choosing a certified contractor like Nailed It Roofing, recognized by all three major manufacturers, ensures your roof may qualify for enhanced non-prorated protection of up to 50 years through premium warranty programs.
Warranty Transferability Can Add Home Value
If you plan to sell your home, a transferable roof warranty can give buyers peace of mind.
Most manufacturers allow one-time transfers within a specific window (often 30–60 days after the sale).
Transferring your warranty not only reassures the new owner but can also increase the resale value of your property.
Installation Quality Affects Coverage
Even the best shingles can fail prematurely if installed incorrectly. Manufacturer warranties typically do not cover workmanship errors such as:
- Poor ventilation
- Improper flashing
- Incorrect nailing patterns
Hiring a certified contractor like Nailed It Roofing, recognized by GAF, IKO, CertainTeed and BP ensures your installation meets the strict standards required for enhanced warranty protection — including extended non-prorated periods and full coverage on materials and labour.
Proper Maintenance Keeps Your Warranty Valid
To maintain your warranty eligibility:
- Schedule annual roof inspections to catch small issues before they worsen.
- Keep gutters clean and clear of debris.
- Avoid unapproved roof alterations or unlicensed repairs.
- Keep receipts, inspection reports, and photos of your roof’s condition for documentation.
Failing to follow maintenance requirements can void coverage, even if the shingles are under warranty.
File Claims Promptly if Issues Arise
If you notice leaks, missing shingles, or unusual wear, contact your roofing contractor right away. Most manufacturers require that warranty claims be submitted as soon as the issue is discovered.
At Nailed It Roofing, our team can assist you in documenting the issue and coordinating directly with the manufacturer to ensure a smooth claims process.
Have Your Roof Warranty Reviewed by a Professional
Roof warranties can be full of fine print, covering specific components but not others. It’s a good idea to have a roofing professional review your warranty documents and inspect your roof periodically to confirm compliance and identify potential risks early.
A roof warranty is one of the most important and often overlooked parts of your roofing investment. By understanding your coverage and working with a certified roofing contractor, you can ensure your home, investment, and peace of mind are well protected.
If you’d like help reviewing your roof warranty or scheduling a roof inspection, contact Nailed It Roofing & Construction today. Our certified experts proudly serve Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Brampton, Hamilton, Brantford and surrounding areas.
