Understanding Your Roof Warranty in Pittsburgh: Manufacturer vs. Workmanship
Roofing warranties in Pittsburgh come in two types: manufacturer warranties (covering shingle defects) and workmanship warranties (covering installation quality). Most Pittsburgh homeowners don't realize that standard manufacturer warranties do NOT cover labor — meaning if your roofer installs shingles incorrectly and a leak results, you pay for the repair. CertainTeed's SureStart PLUS warranty, available exclusively through certified installers like Pittsabana, covers both materials and labor for 15 years — providing complete protection against both product defects and installation errors.
Two Types of Roofing Warranties Every Pittsburgh Homeowner Must Understand
When a contractor quotes you a '30-year warranty' on asphalt shingles, they're almost always referring to the manufacturer's material warranty — not coverage for installation errors. Understanding the distinction protects you from expensive surprises.
- Manufacturer warranty: Covers defects in the shingle material itself (delamination, granule loss beyond normal wear, color fade)
- Workmanship/labor warranty: Covers errors in installation (improper nailing, inadequate overlap, wrong underlayment)
- Standard manufacturer warranty: Materials ONLY — labor is NOT covered
- CertainTeed SureStart PLUS (Pittsabana): Materials AND labor for 15 years — both are covered
- Non-certified contractor warranty: Materials only — any labor issues are your responsibility
CertainTeed SureStart PLUS: What It Covers for Pittsburgh Homeowners
The SureStart PLUS warranty is CertainTeed's premium coverage program, available exclusively through certified installers like Pittsabana. It represents the best warranty package available for asphalt shingles in Pittsburgh.
- Coverage period: 15 years full coverage (materials + labor) — then lifetime limited materials only
- What's covered: Defective shingles, installation errors, and resulting interior water damage
- What's not covered: Damage from improper ventilation (ventilation assessment included in Pittsabana's process), acts of God (covered by homeowner's insurance), or unauthorized modifications
- Transferability: SureStart PLUS transfers to new homeowners for a one-time fee — adds resale value
- Claim process: Claims filed directly with CertainTeed; Pittsabana assists in the process
What Voids Your Pittsburgh Roof Warranty
Certain actions — some avoidable, some not — can void your roofing warranty. Knowing these in advance helps Pittsburgh homeowners protect their coverage.
- Improper attic ventilation: Inadequate airflow above or below your insulation voids most warranties — ventilation assessment is required before installation
- Unauthorized modifications: Adding solar panels, HVAC equipment, or satellite dishes to your roof without manufacturer notification
- Using non-approved underlayment or accessories: All components must meet manufacturer specifications
- Pressure washing: High-pressure washing removes granules and voids warranty
- Non-certified installation: Pittsabana's certification is required to activate SureStart PLUS
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a CertainTeed lifetime warranty actually cover?
CertainTeed's lifetime limited warranty covers manufacturing defects in the shingle materials for the life of the original owner. The SureStart PLUS upgrade (available through Pittsabana's certification) adds 15 years of combined materials+labor coverage, meaning both defective products and installation errors are covered. After 15 years, coverage reverts to materials-only lifetime coverage.
Is my roof warranty transferable when I sell my Pittsburgh home?
CertainTeed's SureStart PLUS warranty is transferable to a new homeowner for a nominal fee, typically $75–$150. This represents a meaningful selling point when listing your Pittsburgh home — the remaining warranty period adds real value. Pittsabana can assist with warranty transfer documentation.
Need Expert Advice for Your Roof?
Pittsabana's CertainTeed-certified team provides free inspections and honest assessments for Pittsburgh-area homeowners.