One of the most important parts of your commercial property is your roofing system. It’s also a significant investment which is why you need to go through great lengths and strides in order to protect it. This can be done by conducting regular commercial roofing maintenance, having repairs as soon as possible. And possessing and understanding strong commercial roofing warranties.
Not all warranties are the same. However, they’re one of your best financial assets that can protect your investments. Keep in mind that the more they cover, the more valuable they are. The warranty terms, dates, remedies, and responsibilities can vary depending on the materials, manufacturer and the contractor providing it. Just like any other contractor, every party has their own fair share of obligations, including the property owner or manager.
In this post, Atrium Roofing, the top roofing contractor in your area, shares a detailed guide on commercial roofing warranties. This includes the different types of commercial warranties and some ways that can cause your warranties to become null and void.
What Are Commercial Roofing Warranties?
Commercial roof warranties are legal relationships between the roofing material manufacturer, property owner, and the roofing contractor. They give assurance that the roofing system will perform according to the given specifications within the prescribed warranty period. They will provide the remedies if the roof doesn’t perform as expected within the warranty period. Keep in mind that warranties can vary in terms of their term and total coverage. The size of your property or its occupancy status are irrelevant when it comes to affecting your commercial roofing warranty since it solely depends on the roofing system.
Types of Commercial Roofing Warranties
When you’re dealing with commercial roofing warranties, there are two main types – the warranties from the manufacturer and from the contractors or installers. As a property owner or manager, it’s your responsibility to possess one of each warranty type. The terms and conditions of each warranty should be factored into your decision-making process on which roofing materials you’ll pick and which contractor will install them. You can seek professional advice as long as it comes from a reputable roofing contractor.
Manufacturer’s NDL (No Dollar Limit Warranty)
The manufacturer’s NDL warranty stipulates that the manufacturer will fully cover its faulty products. Or the product failure under proper use within the warranty period. They will fully cover the replacement or repair, regardless of the price of the material. In theory, if the issue costs more to fix than it was to install the roof in the first place, worry not, as it is still covered. One of the most common reasons for material failure are manufacturing defects or premature deterioration.
Keep in mind that only the materials you purchase from the roofing manufacturer are covered. If you require a roof replacement due to roof damage or leaking from the exhaust vents, then a manufacturer’s NDL warranty won’t cover the issue. It normally also doesn’t cover labor costs for repairing or replacing the defective materials. However, the manufacturer’s NDL warranty is one of the best warranties a manufacturer can provide, but it comes with an additional cost.
Manufacturer’s Materials Warranty
This commercial roofing warranty ensures that the manufacturer’s products won’t fail within a certain time period – such as 10, 20, 30, or even 50 years. Normally, there is no fee associated with a manufacturer’s materials warranty. If you use materials that are not provided by the manufacturer supplying your warranty, then it will not be covered. However, depending on the manufacturer’s terms, certain kinds of defective workmanship can be covered.
Manufacturer’s Labor and Material Warranty
Your roofing contractor would tell you that this is a limited warranty that covers material defects and labor up to a stipulated dollar limit. For this warranty, your roof’s size plays a huge factor. For instance, if you have a large roof area, then your coverage limit can be used up pretty quickly. However, this warranty is usually prorated so the coverage limit for the replacement or repair job will slowly decline over time.
Manufacturer’s Roof System Warranty
This warranty is also known as a “membrane only” warranty since it only covers the membrane of your roofing system. It’s a barebone warranty that doesn’t cover problems with your insulation or decking.
It can become a limited or no dollar limit warranty which can improve its usefulness. And cover roofing issues rooting from defective materials and labor, aside from the roofing membrane. However, you need to keep in mind that this is the most basic warranty that manufacturers can offer, so it’s better to opt for stronger warranties.
What Can Void a Commercial Roofing Warranty?
It’s always a good idea to take a proactive mindset when approaching your commercial roof. This means that you should have it maintained and cleaned regularly so that it remains in good condition. However, failure to do so can actually void your warranty, along with other actions. Here are some of them:
- Unauthorized Roofing Modifications. Certain kinds of modifications can damage your roofing system. For instance, if your tenants installed mechanical equipment that penetrates your roofing system, like new air conditioning units, or extra ventilation, then this could compromise your roofing system. Modifications that penetrate your roofing system need to be installed by professionals who are trained in proper flashing techniques. If not, your property could have some hidden leaks that will not be covered by your warranty.
- Unaddressed Damage. Pay close attention to your roofing system after a weather event, especially after hail storms and high winds. They have to be documented and inspected right after the situation has calmed down. Do not wait for your next maintenance appointment as neglecting roof repairs will void your warranty, as well as your insurance. It also helps to have before and after photos on file for your convenience. Aside from keeping your warranty intact, this ensures that your commercial roof is back in good condition as soon as possible.
Atrium Roofing is a premier source of residential and commercial roofing solutions, including roof replacement and hail roof damage repair, in and around San Antonio, TX. Our top-rated team is committed to providing the comfort. And efficiency every client needs through industry-leading products and outstanding customer service. Call us today at (210) 806-7171 or fill out our contact form to request a free, no-obligation estimate.