The National Roofing Contractors Association released a Consumer Advisory Bulletin stating:

“A roofing warranty’s length should not be the primary criterion in the selection of a roofing product or roof system because the warranty does not necessarily provide assurance of satisfactory roof system performance. There is a common misconception by roofing consumers that long-term warranties are all-inclusive insurance policies designed to cover virtually any roofing problem, regardless of the cause or circumstance. Even the most comprehensive manufacturer warranties that cover materials and workmanship generally provide only that the manufacturer will repair leaks that result from specific causes specified in the warranty. Unfortunately, there are a number of manufacturers that issued long-term warranties and no longer are operating companies with the capability of honoring their warranty commitments, leaving consumers with an ineffective warranty and serious roofing problems.”

Many products today come with a lifetime warranty, the warranty is good for as long as you live in the home. On average, homeowners move every 5 to 8 years, and all warranties will come with exclusions and may not pay for all cost involved. (roof removal, labor and clean up to name a few.)