Key takeaways:
Manufacturer warranties cover materials, while workmanship warranties cover installation
Standard warranties typically last 20-30 years for asphalt shingles
Extended warranties offer longer coverage periods and additional benefits
Proper roof maintenance is crucial for keeping warranties valid
Always read the fine print to understand warranty limitations and exclusions
Hiring a certified contractor can unlock enhanced warranty options
When investing in a new roof for your commercial property, understanding warranty options is crucial. Roof warranties provide peace of mind and financial protection against defects or premature failure. Let's break down the different types of warranties available and what they mean for your business.
Types of new roof warranties
Material warranties
Material warranties are provided by the roofing manufacturer and cover defects in the roofing products themselves. These warranties typically range from 20 to 50 years, depending on the quality of the materials used.
For commercial roofing, common material warranty periods include:
20 years for standard TPO or EPDM membranes
30 years for premium TPO or PVC membranes
20-30 years for built-up roofing (BUR) systems
30-50 years for metal roofing panels
It's important to note that material warranties usually only cover the cost of replacement materials, not labor costs for installation.
Workmanship warranties
Workmanship warranties are offered by the roofing contractor and cover issues related to improper installation. These warranties are typically shorter, often ranging from 2 to 10 years.
A good workmanship warranty should cover:
Leak repairs due to installation errors
Fixing loose or improperly secured materials
Addressing issues with flashing or other roof components
Some contractors offer longer workmanship warranties as a selling point, but be sure to read the terms carefully.
System warranties
System warranties are comprehensive warranties that cover both materials and workmanship. These are often provided by manufacturers when a certified contractor installs a complete roofing system using their products.
System warranties offer several advantages:
Longer coverage periods (often 20-30 years)
Protection against both material defects and installation errors
Single point of contact for warranty claims
Sometimes include coverage for labor costs
To qualify for a system warranty, you'll need to use a manufacturer-certified contractor and follow specific installation guidelines.
Factors that affect warranty coverage
Roof type and materials
The type of roofing system you choose will impact your warranty options. For example:
Single-ply membranes like TPO often come with 20-30 year warranties
Metal roofing can have warranties up to 50 years
Built-up roofing (BUR) systems typically have shorter warranty periods
Higher quality materials generally come with longer warranty periods and more comprehensive coverage.
Contractor certification
Many manufacturers offer enhanced warranty options when you use a certified contractor. These contractors have undergone specific training and meet certain quality standards.
Benefits of using a certified contractor include:
Access to extended warranty periods
More comprehensive coverage options
Assurance of proper installation techniques
Maintenance requirements
Most warranties require regular roof maintenance to remain valid. This typically includes:
Annual inspections
Prompt repairs of any damage
Keeping the roof clean and free of debris
Failing to perform required maintenance can void your warranty, so it's essential to understand and follow these requirements.
Extended warranty options
Many manufacturers offer extended warranty options for an additional cost. These enhanced warranties may provide:
Longer coverage periods (up to 30-40 years)
Full system coverage (materials and labor)
Non-prorated coverage for the entire term
Coverage for accidental punctures or damage
While extended warranties cost more upfront, they can provide valuable long-term protection for your investment.
Understanding warranty limitations
It's crucial to read the fine print of any roof warranty to understand what is and isn't covered. Common exclusions include:
Damage from severe weather events (hurricanes, tornadoes, etc.)
Improper maintenance or neglect
Unauthorized repairs or modifications
Normal wear and tear
Some warranties also have prorated coverage, meaning the amount of coverage decreases over time.
Tips for maximizing your warranty protection
To get the most out of your new roof warranty:
Choose a reputable, certified contractor
Use high-quality materials from a trusted manufacturer
Opt for a system warranty when possible
Follow all maintenance requirements
Keep detailed records of inspections and repairs
Report any issues promptly to maintain coverage
Comparing warranty options
When evaluating different roofing proposals, it's helpful to compare warranty offerings. Here's a sample comparison table:
Warranty Feature | Basic Option | Premium Option |
Material Coverage | 20 years | 30 years |
Workmanship Coverage | 2 years | 10 years |
System Warranty | No | Yes |
Labor Costs Included | No | Yes |
Transferable | No | Yes |
Maintenance Required | Annual | Bi-annual |
The value of proper documentation
Keeping thorough records is essential for maintaining your warranty coverage. Be sure to:
Save all warranty documents in a safe place
Document all maintenance and repairs with photos and receipts
Keep a log of all communication with the manufacturer or contractor
This documentation can be invaluable if you need to file a warranty claim in the future.
Warranty transfer considerations
If you plan to sell your commercial property, check if your roof warranty is transferable. Transferable warranties can add value to your property and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
To transfer a warranty, you'll typically need to:
Notify the manufacturer within a specific timeframe
Pay a transfer fee
Provide documentation of proper maintenance
Some warranties may have limitations on transfers, such as allowing only one transfer or reducing coverage after transfer.
The role of roof inspections in warranty claims
Regular roof inspections are not only important for maintenance but also for identifying potential warranty issues. During an inspection, a professional roofer can:
Spot early signs of material defects
Identify installation problems while still under workmanship warranty
Document conditions that may lead to future warranty claims
It's a good idea to have your roof inspected at least once a year, or after any severe weather events.
Navigating the warranty claim process
If you need to file a warranty claim, follow these steps:
Review your warranty documents to confirm coverage
Document the issue with photos and written descriptions
Contact the warranty provider (manufacturer or contractor) promptly
Schedule an inspection if required
Follow the provider's claim process carefully
Keep records of all communication and repairs
Be prepared for the possibility that some repairs may not be covered, depending on the cause and your specific warranty terms.
The impact of roof coatings on warranties
Roof coatings can extend the life of your roof and may come with their own warranty coverage. However, applying a coating can affect your existing roof warranty. Before applying a coating:
Check with your original roof manufacturer
Understand how the coating warranty interacts with your existing coverage
Consider using a coating approved by your roof manufacturer
Some manufacturers offer extended warranties when you apply their approved coating systems.
Environmental factors and warranty coverage
Your local climate can impact both your roofing choices and warranty options. Factors to consider include:
UV exposure in sunny climates
Freeze-thaw cycles in colder regions
High winds in coastal areas
Chemical exposure in industrial zones
Some warranties may have specific exclusions or requirements based on your location. Be sure to discuss these factors with your roofing contractor.
The future of roof warranties
As roofing technology advances, warranty offerings are likely to evolve. Some trends to watch for include:
Smart roof monitoring systems that can alert you to potential issues
Warranties that cover energy performance metrics
More comprehensive coverage for sustainable roofing options
Staying informed about these developments can help you make better decisions for future roofing projects.
Balancing cost and coverage in warranty selection
While comprehensive warranties offer great protection, they also come at a higher cost. When choosing a warranty, consider:
The expected lifespan of your roof
Your budget for upfront costs vs. potential future repairs
The value of peace of mind for your business operations
Sometimes, investing in a better warranty upfront can save money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement.
The importance of contractor reputation in warranty fulfillment
Even the best warranty is only as good as the company backing it. When choosing a roofing contractor:
Check their track record for honoring warranty claims
Look for reviews or testimonials about their warranty service
Ask about their process for handling warranty issues
A reputable contractor will stand behind their work and help you navigate any warranty claims with the manufacturer.
Warranty options for different commercial roof types
Different roofing systems come with varying warranty options. Here's a quick overview:
Roof Type | Typical Warranty Range | Common Exclusions |
TPO/PVC | 15-30 years | Ponding water |
EPDM | 10-30 years | Chemical exposure |
Metal | 20-50 years | Coastal corrosion |
BUR | 10-25 years | Foot traffic |
Modified Bitumen | 10-20 years | Ice damming |
Always discuss specific warranty details for your chosen roofing system with your contractor.
Sources
According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of a new roof is between $5,000 and $10,000.1
Roofing Contractor.com reports that the length of a roof warranty can vary from 10 to 50 years, depending on the type of roofing material.2
Asphalt shingle roofs typically come with a manufacturer's warranty of 20 to 30 years.2
Metal roofs, on the other hand, can have warranties lasting up to 50 years.2
To get the most out of your roof warranty, it's important to maintain the roof properly. This includes regular inspections, cleaning gutters, and addressing any damage promptly.3
Additionally, be sure to keep records of all roofing work, including inspections and repairs, as this may be required to validate a warranty claim.3
Conclusion
Choosing the right warranty for your new commercial roof is an important decision that can have long-term implications for your property. By understanding the types of warranties available, their limitations, and how to maintain coverage, you can better protect your investment. Remember to work with a reputable contractor, carefully review all warranty documents, and stay proactive with roof maintenance to get the most out of your warranty coverage. For more information, you can visit our website or contact us
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