A roofing warranty in Quebec has two separate components: the manufacturer warranty covering material defects, and the workmanship warranty covering installation quality. Both are necessary — and both have specific conditions that can void coverage, including inadequate attic ventilation, unauthorized modifications, and installation by a non-certified contractor.
The Two Components of Every Roofing Warranty
When a contractor mentions a ’25-year warranty’ or ‘lifetime warranty,’ it is critical to ask: does that cover the materials, the installation, or both? Most quoted warranties refer only to the manufacturer’s material warranty. The workmanship warranty — covering how the roof was actually installed — is a separate document issued by the contractor and is just as important.
Manufacturer Warranty
Issued by companies like GAF, IKO, or CertainTeed, the manufacturer warranty covers defects in the production of the roofing material itself. ‘Lifetime limited’ means coverage is theoretically for the life of the structure but is prorated — typically full replacement coverage for the first 10 to 30 years, then decreasing. The specific proration schedule varies by product tier and manufacturer.
Workmanship Warranty
Issued by the roofing contractor, the workmanship warranty covers everything the manufacturer doesn’t — the nailing pattern, flashing installation, underlayment lapping, sealant application, and drainage details. A leak caused by a missed nail or improperly sealed flashing is a workmanship failure. Without this warranty, those repairs are entirely out-of-pocket. Cossette Roofing provides a written workmanship warranty on all projects with terms specified in the contract.
What Voids a Roofing Warranty?
Inadequate attic ventilation is the most frequently cited grounds for manufacturer warranty denial — GAF, IKO, and CertainTeed all specify minimum ventilation ratios as a warranty condition. Unauthorized post-installation modifications — adding a satellite dish, cutting new penetrations — can void coverage for problems arising in those areas. Installation by a non-certified contractor eliminates access to enhanced warranty tiers. Storm damage and normal wear are excluded from all material warranties.
Understanding GAF’s Warranty Tiers
GAF offers three warranty tiers with increasing protection. The standard limited warranty is available with any GAF installation. The System Plus warranty requires a GAF-certified contractor. The Golden Pledge warranty — GAF’s top tier — requires a GAF Master Elite contractor, provides non-prorated coverage for a defined term, includes labour costs, and adds wind and algae protection. Cossette Roofing is a GAF Factory-Certified Contractor, meaning qualifying customers can access System Plus and Golden Pledge tiers unavailable from non-certified installers.
To confirm which GAF warranty tier your project qualifies for, visit the Cossette Roofing services page or call 819-777-7177.
Flat Roof Warranty Specifics
Elastomeric membrane manufacturer warranties typically run 10 to 20 years and require installation by a certified applicator. Because flat roof failures are almost always installation-related rather than material defects — incomplete torch adhesion, inadequate flashing, or drainage problems — the workmanship warranty on flat roof systems is particularly important. Always request both warranty documents in writing before signing.
Cossette installs elastomeric membrane systems with full material and workmanship documentation — see the flat roofing and membrane page for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ‘lifetime limited warranty’ actually mean for shingles?
It means shingles are warranted against manufacturing defects for the life of the original structure, subject to a proration schedule. Coverage is typically full replacement for the first 10–30 years, then decreases annually. ‘Limited’ is the operative word.
Is a roofing warranty transferable when I sell my home?
Most manufacturer warranties allow a one-time transfer to a new owner for a registration fee. Workmanship warranties from the contractor may or may not be transferable — check the specific contract terms.
What if my roofing contractor goes out of business?
The workmanship warranty becomes valueless if the contractor ceases operations. The manufacturer material warranty remains valid regardless. This is why choosing an established, long-standing contractor matters as much as the warranty length.
How do I make a warranty claim in Quebec?
For workmanship issues, contact your contractor in writing and document the problem with photos. For material defects, contact the manufacturer’s warranty department with proof of purchase and installation documentation.
Is a longer warranty always better?
No. A 50-year prorated warranty from a contractor who may not exist in 10 years offers less real protection than a 10-year non-prorated warranty from an established, accredited company. Read the terms carefully alongside the contractor’s track record.
Cossette Roofing — RBQ Licence 5697-7788-01 — 819-777-7177 — toiturescossette.ca