You're ready to purchase a new composition shingle roof, and you're confused about which one to choose. The salesperson is offering you different products that are warranted for 20, 30 or 40 years. Before you sign on the dotted line, get a copy of the warranty -- take it home and read it. If you're like us, you're going to be surprised. What you'll find is most warranties for composition roof covering aren't so hot. In the first year the manufacturer will warrant all labor and material. But, for the next 19-to-39 years, you get a pro-rated settlement on material only. For example: a $4,000 roof that fails in the fifth year might get you a check from the roof manufacturer for about $500. By the way, be sure to get a separate warranty on removal and replacement labor from the roofing contractor too. And that's the On The House Tip for the day.