Spray-Foam Attics and Shingle Warranties: Ask the Right Question
Bulletin revision: February 1, 2021
An unvented attic does not justify a blanket warranty claim. Separate manufacturing defects from assembly-related damage.
If insulation is attached beneath your roof deck, start by identifying how the attic was designed. A conventional vented attic and a designed unvented assembly should not be treated as the same system.
What Malarkey’s bulletin actually says
Malarkey’s February 2022 bulletin states that its warranty against manufacturing defects remains in effect over unvented roof assemblies. It also excludes damage or problems caused by a lack of proper ventilation.
That distinction matters. “The entire warranty is void” and “every problem is covered” are both too broad. This statement applies to Malarkey’s bulletin, not automatically to another manufacturer’s shingles or warranty.
Build a clear record before reroofing
Identify the installed shingle and the warranty being discussed.
Collect any insulation or attic-design paperwork available.
Ask who will evaluate the assembly and any visible moisture concerns.
Request written clarification from the manufacturer when the proposed assembly is uncertain.
Do not turn a warranty question into a guess
For a specific roof, ask the contractor to identify the concern, the proposed work and the relevant warranty language separately. A coverage decision depends on the actual terms and cause of the problem.
Keep attic alterations coordinated with the person responsible for the assembly design and applicable local requirements. Adding openings based only on a generic ventilation diagram is not an adequate plan for a sealed attic.
Useful paperwork to keep
Save the roof estimate, shingle identification, insulation documents, inspection photos and any manufacturer correspondence together. This makes future maintenance discussions more concrete.
Related guide
Explore the connected roof detail
Manufacturer references
Malarkey: Installation over Unvented Roof Assemblies (February 2022).
Prepared by Barnes N’ Roofs. Technical sources reviewed October 14, 2026. Manufacturer requirements vary by product; this homeowner overview does not replace current installation instructions or applicable local requirements. Project photography is illustrative and does not establish the shingle brand or a concealed condition.
GAF technical bulletin reference
Bulletin revision: February 1, 2021. This is the date of the manufacturer source, not a claim that this website guide existed on that date.
Read GAF: Under deck sprayed in place foam insulation
This homeowner summary explains the cited bulletin. The complete manufacturer document and current product instructions govern the installation details. A requirement for one manufacturer or product should not be transferred to another without checking.