UPDATED FOR 2025
Prorated vs. Non-Prorated Roof Warranties: What's the Difference?
Learn which roof warranty type saves you money and provides better long-term value for your Long Island home.
Key Takeaways:
- Prorated warranties start at 100% coverage but decrease over time (typically after 10 years), leaving you paying 50-80% of replacement costs by year 20-25
- Non-prorated warranties provide unchanging 100% coverage for the entire warranty period (typically 10-25 years), eliminating surprise out-of-pocket expenses
- Labor coverage is the critical difference: prorated warranties often exclude labor from day one (you pay $4,000-6,000 for installation even with “full” material coverage), while non-prorated warranties typically cover both materials AND labor
- Typical costs: Non-prorated warranties cost $800-1,500 more upfront but can save $6,000-10,000+ if a defect occurs during the coverage period
- Payback period: 3-8 years for most homeowners when factoring in insurance-like protection against manufacturing defects
- Best for long-term owners: 15-year non-prorated warranty is the sweet spot for homeowners staying 10+ years; prorated is acceptable for those selling within 5-10 years
- Transferability matters: Non-prorated warranties are more attractive to buyers and can enhance resale value when properly transferred
You just got three roofing quotes.
All three contractors mention warranties. One talks about a “50-year prorated warranty.” Another mentions a “15-year non-prorated warranty.” The third offers both materials and workmanship warranty options.
Which warranty is actually better? And what the hell does “prorated” even mean?
County Roofing Systems has helped thousands of Long Island homeowners navigate warranty terms. We’ve seen homeowners shocked by out-of-pocket expenses when their “50-year warranty” only covers 30% of repair costs. We’ve also seen homeowners with shorter non-prorated warranties get full replacement coverage.
Here’s everything you need to know about prorated vs non-prorated warranties—including which warranty type actually protects you better.
What Is a Prorated Warranty?
A prorated roof warranty is a type of coverage that changes over time as your roof gets older. Prorated warranties start with full coverage but gradually reduce over time, leading to higher out-of-pocket costs as the roof ages.
How it works:
Years 1-10 (example timeframe): 100% coverage for material defects
Year 11: 90% coverage (you pay 10%)
Year 15: 70% coverage (you pay 30%)
Year 20: 50% coverage (you pay 50%)
Year 25: 30% coverage (you pay 70%)
Translation: The older your roof gets, the less the warranty coverage pays for repairs or replacement costs. Prorated warranties start strong but reduce coverage over time, meaning financial protection weakens as repair needs increase.
Most prorated warranties provide full material coverage for the first 5-10 years before coverage decreases each year thereafter throughout the warranty period.
Real-World Example: Prorated Warranty
You install GAF Timberline HDZ shingles with a “limited lifetime” prorated warranty (50 years).
Year 8: Manufacturing defect discovered. Shingles need replacement.
Warranty covers: 100% of materials ($6,000)
You pay: Labor only ($4,000)
Total out of pocket: $4,000
Year 18: Manufacturing defect discovered. Shingles need replacement.
Warranty covers: ~60% of materials ($3,600 of $6,000)
You pay: 40% of materials ($2,400) + labor ($4,000)
Total out of pocket: $6,400
Year 28: Manufacturing defect discovered. Shingles need replacement.
Warranty covers: ~20% of materials ($1,200 of $6,000)
You pay: 80% of materials ($4,800) + labor ($4,000)
Total out of pocket: $8,800
Notice the pattern: The warranty value decreases precisely when you’re most likely to need it. Roof ages 15-30 are when defects and failures typically appear. But that’s when your warranty coverage is at its lowest.
Prorated warranties require more sophisticated financial planning as potential out-of-pocket expenses increase over time, making it harder to make an informed decision about long-term costs.
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What Is a Non-Prorated Warranty?
A non-prorated roof warranty provides consistent, unchanging coverage throughout the entire warranty period. Non-prorated warranties provide consistent, unchanging coverage throughout the entire warranty period, eliminating complex calculations and unexpected costs.
How it works:
Year 1: 100% coverage
Year 5: 100% coverage
Year 10: 100% coverage
Year 15: 100% coverage (still 100%!)
Translation: If a manufacturing defect occurs at ANY point during the warranty period, you get the same full coverage. No calculations. No decreasing coverage. No escalating out-of-pocket expenses.
A non-prorated warranty covers the full cost of repairs or replacement for the entire duration of the warranty period.
Non-prorated warranties deliver the same level of protection from year one through the final year, avoiding calculations and escalating costs.
Real-World Example: Non-Prorated Warranty
You install Owens Corning Duration shingles with a “15-year non-prorated” warranty.
Year 3: Manufacturing defect discovered. Shingles need replacement.
Warranty covers: 100% of materials ($6,000) + labor ($4,000)
You pay: $0
Total out of pocket: $0
Year 12: Manufacturing defect discovered. Shingles need replacement.
Warranty covers: 100% of materials ($6,000) + labor ($4,000)
You pay: $0
Total out of pocket: $0
Year 14: Manufacturing defect discovered. Shingles need replacement.
Warranty covers: 100% of materials ($6,000) + labor ($4,000)
You pay: $0
Total out of pocket: $0
The difference is dramatic: Full coverage throughout the warranty period means predictable costs and peace of mind. Non-prorated warranties offer more predictable long-term costs, making it easier to budget for potential roofing issues.
Prorated vs. Non-Prorated: Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature | Prorated Warranty | Non-Prorated Warranty |
|---|---|---|
Coverage Over Time | Decreases annually after initial period | Stays at 100% for entire warranty period |
Out-of-Pocket Costs | Increase significantly as roof ages | Zero (for covered defects) throughout warranty |
Predictability | Requires calculations; unexpected expenses possible | Completely predictable; no surprise costs |
Labor Coverage | Typically excluded from day one | Often included for full coverage |
Typical Duration | 25-50 years (but decreasing coverage) | 10-15 years (but unchanging coverage) |
Initial Cost | Lower upfront costs (included with shingles) | Higher initial investment (premium upgrade) |
Long-Term Value | Lower (weakens when most needed) | Higher (strongest when most needed) |
Best For | Shorter ownership plans (5-15 years) | Long-term ownership (15+ years) |
Resale Value | Minimal impact | Enhances property value (transferable) |
The choice between prorated and non-prorated warranties impacts long-term financial security and predictability of costs for homeowners.
The Labor Coverage Trap
Here’s something most homeowners don’t realize until it’s too late:
Prorated warranties often exclude labor coverage from day one, leaving homeowners responsible for installation and repair labor expenses even during the “full coverage” period.
Prorated Warranty Labor Reality
“50-year limited lifetime warranty” sounds comprehensive. But read the fine print:
Materials: Covered at 100% for first 10 years, then prorated
Labor: NOT COVERED AT ALL (zero coverage, any year)
What this means:
Year 5 defect: Warranty pays for shingles ($6,000), you pay labor ($4,000)
Year 15 defect: Warranty pays 70% of shingles ($4,200), you pay 30% of shingles ($1,800) + labor ($4,000) = $5,800 total
Year 25 defect: Warranty pays 30% of shingles ($1,800), you pay 70% of shingles ($4,200) + labor ($4,000) = $8,200 total
The kicker: Labor is often 40-50% of total replacement costs. Even with “100% material coverage,” you’re paying thousands out of pocket.
Non-Prorated Warranty Labor Coverage
Non-prorated warranties often include both materials and labor coverage, providing comprehensive protection against both materials and labor expenses.
Non-prorated warranties typically cover both materials and labor, providing comprehensive financial protection throughout the entire warranty period.
Example: 15-year non-prorated warranty:
Year 5 defect: $0 out of pocket (materials + labor both covered)
Year 10 defect: $0 out of pocket (materials + labor both covered)
Year 14 defect: $0 out of pocket (materials + labor both covered)
This is the critical difference: Non-prorated warranties deliver full cost protection. Prorated warranties leave you vulnerable to significant repair or replacement costs even during the initial period.
What Actually Voids Both Warranty Types
Both prorated and non-prorated warranties typically exclude damage from severe weather events, improper maintenance, or unauthorized repairs. Both warranty types require regular maintenance, and neglecting maintenance can void the coverage entirely.
Common warranty exclusions (applies to both warranty types):
Weather Damage
Wind damage (even if wind exceeds manufacturer’s rating)
Hail damage
Hurricane damage
Tornado damage
Lightning strikes
Why: These are covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy, not manufacturer warranties. Roofing warranties cover manufacturing defects, not storm damage.
Improper Maintenance
Moss/algae growth (if you don’t clean it)
Clogged gutters causing ice dams
Tree branches left on roof
Failure to perform inspections
Why: Warranties require you to maintain your roof system properly. Neglect voids coverage.
Unauthorized Repairs
Repairs by non-certified contractors
DIY repairs
Modifications without manufacturer approval
Roof penetrations (satellite dishes, solar panels) without proper flashing
Why: Improper work creates new problems that aren’t the manufacturer’s responsibility.
Installation Issues
Inadequate ventilation
Improper nailing
Missing starter strips
Wrong underlayment
Why: These are installer errors, not material defects. This is why contractor workmanship warranties matter (covered below).
Critical point: Both prorated and non-prorated warranty coverage requires following manufacturer specifications and maintenance requirements to remain valid. Read the fine print carefully.
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Manufacturer Warranties vs. Workmanship Warranties
Understanding roofing warranties means understanding you actually get TWO separate warranties:
Manufacturer Warranties (Material Defects Only)
These are the prorated or non-prorated warranties we’ve been discussing. Manufacturer warranties cover defects in the roofing materials themselves:
Premature shingle deterioration
Manufacturing defects (faulty adhesive, poor granule adhesion)
Material failures not caused by weather or installation
Duration: 10-50 years depending on warranty type
Coverage: Materials only (prorated) OR materials + labor (non-prorated)
Leading manufacturers like GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed all offer both prorated and non-prorated warranty options with different warranty terms.
Workmanship Warranty (Installation Defects)
Also called “contractor workmanship” or “installation warranty.” This covers problems caused by poor installation:
Leaks from improper flashing
Blow-offs from incorrect nailing
Premature failure from ventilation issues
Problems from installation errors
Duration: Typically 5-25 years depending on contractor
Coverage: Labor to fix installation-related problems
CRITICAL: A contractor workmanship warranty is just as important as the manufacturer warranty. A great shingle installed poorly will fail. Get both materials and workmanship coverage.
County Roofing Systems provides contractor workmanship warranties on all installations because proper installation determines real-world roof performance.
Enhanced Warranties: The Premium Option
Some manufacturers offer enhanced warranties that combine the best of both worlds. These are essentially extended non-prorated warranties with additional benefits:
GAF Golden Pledge Warranty (example):
25 years non-prorated coverage (materials + labor)
Covers workmanship defects (not just materials)
Includes tear-off and disposal costs
Covers manufacturer defects in all roof system components
Fully transferable
Owens Corning Platinum Protection Warranty (example):
15-25 years non-prorated coverage depending on product
Covers materials + labor
Includes shingles, underlayment, ventilation, and accessories
Transferable with inspection and fee
CertainTeed SureStart PLUS (example):
15 years non-prorated coverage (materials + labor)
Covers entire roof system (not just shingles)
Includes accessories and components
Transferable
Cost: Typically $500-$2,000 more than standard warranties
Worth it? If you’re planning to stay in your home 15+ years, enhanced warranties provide exceptional peace of mind and full coverage during the most critical period.
Enhanced warranties offer comprehensive coverage across the entire roof system, not just premium asphalt shingles.
NDL Warranties: “No Dollar Limit”
Some manufacturers offer “NDL warranties” (No Dollar Limit) as part of their non-prorated warranty options.
What it means: Instead of prorated coverage capping at a percentage, the warranty covers the full cost of replacement regardless of material price increases.
Example:
Year 1: Shingles cost $6,000
Year 15: Same shingles now cost $9,000 (inflation)
Standard non-prorated warranty: Might cap at “current material value” ($6,000 in 2026 dollars)
NDL warranty: Covers actual replacement cost ($9,000 in 2041 dollars)
Value: Provides inflation protection and predictable long term costs. Your warranty coverage keeps pace with rising material costs throughout the warranty.
Availability: Offered by some manufacturers on premium products with non-prorated coverage.
How Long Should the Non-Prorated Period Be?
If you’re choosing non-prorated coverage, how many years do you need?
10 years: Minimum acceptable for quality protection
15 years: Excellent for most homeowners
20-25 years: Premium tier; exceptional long-term value
50 years: Marketing gimmick (if it’s prorated, the initial period matters most)
Our recommendation: 15-year non-prorated is the sweet spot for most Long Island homeowners. Here’s why:
Years 1-5: Manufacturing defects are rare (initial quality control is good)
Years 5-15: Peak period for manufacturing defects to appear
Years 15-25: Roof is aging; failures could be age-related (not warranty-covered)
Years 25+: Roof is at end of life; most issues are age/wear (not defects)
A 15-year non-prorated warranty covers the CRITICAL period when manufacturing defects appear while materials are still relatively new. This provides maximum warranty value when you’re most likely to need it.
Real-World Defect Claims: How Common Are They?
Honest truth: Manufacturing defect claims are rare.
Some roof problems are NOT covered by warranties:
Storm damage: 60-70% of roof issues (insurance claim, not warranty)
Installation errors: 20-25% of problems (workmanship warranty, not manufacturer)
Lack of maintenance: 5-10% of issues (homeowner responsibility, not warranty)
Manufacturing defects: 1-5% of problems (manufacturer warranty applies)
Translation: Don’t choose your shingle PRIMARILY based on warranty. Choose based on quality, performance, and cost. The warranty is secondary protection, not the main value proposition.
That said: When manufacturing defects DO occur, having non-prorated coverage versus prorated makes a $5,000-10,000 difference in your out-of-pocket expenses. That’s real money and meaningful financial protection.
Which Warranty Type Is Right for You?
Choosing between prorated and non-prorated warranties requires careful evaluation of several key factors.
Choose Prorated Warranty If:
You’re selling within 5-10 years
You won’t be around for the prorated reduction period
Lower initial costs matter more than long-term protection
You want to minimize upfront investment
Budget is extremely tight
Standard prorated warranty is included with shingles at lower upfront costs
You can’t afford the $500-2,000 premium for non-prorated
You’re willing to accept future risk for current savings
You have excellent homeowner’s insurance
Your insurance covers most roof issues anyway
Manufacturer warranty is secondary protection
You’re comfortable with some out-of-pocket expenses if needed
Prorated warranties are best for homeowners with shorter ownership plans due to lower initial costs and initial strong protection for the early years.
Choose Non-Prorated Warranty If:
You’re staying 15+ years
You’ll be present during peak defect period (years 5-15)
Long-term predictable costs matter more than upfront savings
You want maximum protection throughout ownership
You want zero unexpected expenses
Full coverage eliminates surprise costs and unexpected costs
No calculations or fine print complexity
Complete peace of mind for new roof investment
You’re buying premium roofing materials
You’re already investing in quality; protect that investment fully
Premium shingles deserve premium warranty protection
Enhanced warranties often include entire roof system coverage
Resale value matters
Non-prorated warranties are generally more attractive to buyers and can enhance a home’s resale value
Choosing a non-prorated warranty can enhance a property’s resale value due to its transferable nature and consistent coverage
Most non-prorated warranties are transferable to the new owner, typically for a fee and inspection
Buyers appreciate predictable, unchanging coverage
You want comprehensive coverage
Materials AND labor covered eliminates both materials and labor out-of-pocket expenses
True full cost protection with no hidden costs
Maximum warranty value throughout the warranty period
Our recommendation: For most Long Island homeowners staying 10+ years, 15-year non-prorated warranty is worth the extra cost. The peace of mind, predictable costs, and full coverage during peak defect years justify the higher initial investment.
However, our bigger recommendation? Work with County Roofing to get our unmatched 50-year material, 25-year labor warranty.
You need the combination of material and labor warranty to cover all your bases, and you can’t get a better combination with County Roofing’s 50/25.
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How to Actually Get Non-Prorated Coverage
Non-prorated warranties typically require specific conditions. Here’s what you need:
1. Use Certified Contractors
Most enhanced non-prorated warranties require installation by manufacturer-certified contractors:
GAF Master Elite (required for GAF Golden Pledge)
Owens Corning Platinum Preferred (required for Platinum Protection)
CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster (required for SureStart PLUS)
Why: Manufacturers trust certified contractors to install properly, reducing warranty claims from installation errors.
2. Use Complete Roof System
Many non-prorated warranty options require using the manufacturer’s complete roof system:
Shingles
Underlayment
Starter strips
Hip and ridge caps
Intake/exhaust ventilation
Why: Ensures all components work together as designed; reduces compatibility issues.
3. Register the Warranty
Warranty registration is CRITICAL. Many homeowners skip this step and lose coverage.
How to register:
Get warranty documents from contractor after installation
Register online within 60-90 days (timeframe varies by manufacturer)
Keep confirmation email and warranty certificate
Documentation ensures your coverage, regardless of the warranty type. Without registration, you might have NO warranty despite paying for it.
4. Maintain Your Roof
Both warranty types require maintenance requirements to be followed:
Annual inspections (at least every 3-5 years)
Prompt repairs of minor damage
Gutter cleaning
Debris removal
Keep records: Photos, invoices, inspection reports. If you file a warranty claim, you’ll need proof of proper maintenance.
Cost Comparison: Is Non-Prorated Worth It?
Let’s run the numbers for a typical Long Island home.
Standard Prorated Warranty (Included)
Upfront cost: $0 extra (included with shingles)
Coverage: Materials only, prorated after 10 years
Potential out-of-pocket at year 20: $6,000-8,000 (if defect occurs)
15-Year Non-Prorated Warranty
Upfront cost: $800-1,500 extra
Coverage: Materials + labor, 100% for 15 years
Potential out-of-pocket at year 20: $0 (if defect occurs within 15 years)
The calculation:
Premium for non-prorated: $1,200 (average)
Savings if defect at year 12: $10,000 (full replacement covered)
Break-even: If ONE manufacturing defect occurs in years 5-15, non-prorated pays for itself 8x over
Probability of defect: Low (maybe 3-5% chance)
Cost if defect occurs: High ($6,000-10,000+ out of pocket with prorated)
Risk tolerance question: Are you willing to pay $1,200 now to eliminate the risk of $6,000-10,000 later?
For most homeowners: Yes, that’s good insurance with predictable costs and peace of mind.
Transferability: What Happens When You Sell?
Both prorated and non-prorated warranties can transfer to new homeowners, but the terms differ.
Prorated Warranty Transfer
Typically transfers automatically with home sale
New owner gets: Remaining prorated coverage (whatever percentage is left)
Example: You sell at year 12. New owner gets years 12-50 of prorated coverage (but at reduced percentages)
Value to buyer: Minimal (highly prorated coverage isn’t compelling)
Non-Prorated Warranty Transfer
Usually transfers for a fee + inspection: $100-300 transfer fee
New owner gets: Remaining non-prorated coverage in full
Example: You sell at year 8. New owner gets 7 years of 100% coverage remaining (if 15-year non-prorated)
Value to buyer: Significant (full coverage remaining is attractive)
Non-prorated warranties are often transferable to new homeowners, which can add value to the property and enhance resale value.
Real estate impact: Homes with transferable non-prorated warranties can command slightly higher prices. Buyers appreciate inheriting comprehensive coverage and the right warranty protection.
Common Warranty Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1: Confusing Warranty Length with Value
“50-year warranty” sounds better than “15-year warranty”, right?
Wrong. A 50-year prorated warranty with 10-year full coverage is WORSE than a 15-year non-prorated warranty for most homeowners.
Remember: Coverage strength matters more than warranty duration. A shorter non-prorated warranty provides more predictable long term costs than a longer prorated warranty with decreasing coverage.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Workmanship Warranty
You chose great shingles with a great manufacturer warranty. But your contractor offers only a 1-year workmanship warranty.
Problem: Installation defects often appear in years 2-5 (leaks, blow-offs, etc.). A 1-year workmanship warranty leaves you unprotected.
Solution: Demand 10-25 year contractor workmanship warranties from your roofing contractor. County Roofing Systems provides long-term workmanship coverage because installation quality determines real-world performance through our residential roofing services.
Mistake #3: Not Reading the Fine Print
All roofing warranties have fine print. Read it. Understand:
What’s covered vs. excluded
Whether labor is included
Maintenance requirements
Transfer process and fees
How prorated coverage is calculated
Ask your contractor to EXPLAIN the warranty terms in plain English before you sign anything and make an informed decision about warranty options.
Mistake #4: Forgetting to Register
You MUST register your warranty within the specified timeframe (usually 60-90 days after installation).
Unregistered warranties often revert to basic coverage or void entirely. Set a calendar reminder. Register immediately after installation. Keep confirmation documentation.
Mistake #5: Assuming All Warranties Are Equal
Different roofing materials have different warranty terms:
Asphalt shingles: 10-50 years (mix of prorated and non-prorated options)
Metal roofing: 20-50 years (often non-prorated on materials)
Tile/slate: 50+ years to lifetime (limited warranties offered)
Flat roofing (EPDM/TPO): 10-30 years (mix of prorated and non-prorated)
Compare warranties within the same material category. Don’t compare asphalt warranty to metal warranty—they’re different roofing materials with different warranty structures.
The Bottom Line: Which Warranty Should You Choose?
For most Long Island homeowners: Choose a 15-year non-prorated warranty if budget allows.
The financial case:
Premium cost: $800-1,500
Potential savings: $6,000-10,000+ (if defect occurs)
Peace of mind: Priceless (zero surprise costs, predictable costs)
The risk calculation:
Manufacturing defects: Low probability (3-5%)
Financial impact if defect occurs: High ($6,000-10,000)
Cost to eliminate risk: Modest ($800-1,500)
Risk mitigation makes sense: You’re paying reasonable insurance to eliminate significant financial risk with full coverage throughout the warranty period.
When to choose prorated instead:
Selling within 5 years (won’t benefit from long-term coverage)
Extremely tight budget (can’t afford premium)
Excellent insurance coverage (manufacturer warranty is backup protection)
When to upgrade to enhanced warranty (20-25 year non-prorated):
Staying 20+ years (maximizes long-term value)
Premium roofing materials (protect your investment)
Want absolute maximum protection (true comprehensive coverage)
The decision framework:
How long will you own the home? (longer = more value from non-prorated)
What’s your risk tolerance? (low tolerance = choose non-prorated)
What’s your budget? (if tight, prorated is acceptable)
What’s your home’s value? (higher value = justify premium warranty)
Choosing between prorated and non-prorated warranties requires careful evaluation of several key factors including ownership timeline, budget, and desired peace of mind.
Get the Right Warranty for Your Long Island Roof
County Roofing Systems is certified by all three leading manufacturers: GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed.
We offer both prorated and non-prorated warranty options. We’ll explain the differences, show you the fine print, and help you make an informed decision based on your situation—not our sales goals.
We also provide contractor workmanship warranties (up to 25 years) because we stand behind our installation quality.
Want to understand your warranty options? Contact us for a consultation. We’ll review:
Manufacturer warranty terms (prorated vs. non-prorated)
Enhanced warranty options (if applicable)
Our workmanship warranty coverage
Total cost with different warranty options
Expected warranty value based on your ownership timeline
No pressure. Just honest information to help you protect your investment with the right warranty for your home.
Reach out today to learn more about our industry-leading guarantee and how we can help you transform your home’s exterior with a brand new roof:
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