According to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), a leading trade association pledged to professionalism, the best way to protect your warranty is by doing your homework up front when selecting a roofing contractor to be sure that you will be dealing with a real pro. While this doesn't guarantee that all will go well, the odds will most certainly be in your favor.

Unfortunately, it appears that the contractor that installed your roof was just one of many who claim to be professional roofers, when, in reality, they have no established place of business, telephone, technical experience or credibility.

Whereas the workmanship part of your warranty has expired, you are still entitled to the material warranty if you can determine who the manufacturer of the product is and that it was installed properly. We have often seen material warranties voided due to faulty installations.

We would advise you to enlist the services of a professional roofing contractor or an experienced roofing consultant to verify the manufacturer of your particular fiberglass shingle. Once identified, the expert will likely be able to put you in touch with the manufacturer's representative who can offer some assistance.

The NRCA says that it's a good idea when re-roofing to keep an extra bundle of shingles with the wrapper attached identifying the brand name and the manufacturer. In addition to providing exact identification in case a warranty question arises, it also provides replacement shingles.

A free list of professional roofing contractors located in your ZIP CODE area is available to you, along with a booklet of roof care tips, by sending a self-addressed stamped envelope to the NRCA, Buying a New Roof,10255 W. Higgins Road, Suite 600, Rosemont, Ill. 60018 Attn: Lillian