Key roof warranty considerations for commercial property owners.
Don’t Be Surprised By What Your Warranty Actually Protects
Every commercial building owner knows that a roof is a significant investment. Ensuring it stands the test of time isn’t just about selecting the right materials or roofers but also understanding what your commercial roof warranty actually covers. Roof manufacturers and contractors offer various types of warranties, but each type provides different coverage, and knowing the specifics is essential for enabling peace of mind.
Types of Commercial Roof Warranties
All roof warranties are not created equal. Commercial property owners need to understand the different types of warranties and the coverages and exclusions offered by each to make strategic maintenance decisions and ensure their roof remains protected.
Material Warranty
Overview: This type of warranty is often provided by the manufacturer and covers defects in the roofing material.
Coverage: Generally covers leaks directly linked to material defects.
Exclusions & Limitations: This type of warranty doesn’t cover damages from improper installation or external factors like storms.
Contractor’s Warranty
Overview: This warranty covers the installation quality provided by the roofing contractor and protects against leaks issues that result from installation errors.
Coverage: Addresses leaks or issues resulting from improper installation techniques.
Exclusions & Limitations: This type of warranty doesn’t typically cover material failures or damages from weather-related or third party damage.
Manufacturer’s No Dollar Limit Warranty
Overview: This warranty provides the most comprehensive coverage, guaranteeing that the manufacturer will cover the repair cost.
Coverage: Leak issues related to material and workmanship are covered for the duration the warranty.
Exclusions & Limitations: Regular maintenance is required, as neglect or misuse can void the warranty. Certain weather related damage and unauthorized alterations to the roof are not covered.
| Warranty Type | Material Warranty |
| Material Defects | ✓ |
| Installation Errors | X |
| Storm Damage | X |
| Maintenance Requirements | ✓ |
| Labor Costs | X |
| Standard Warranty Length | 20 years |
| Warranty Type | Contractor’s Warranty |
| Material Defects | X |
| Installation Errors | ✓ |
| Storm Damage | X |
| Maintenance Requirements | X |
| Labor Costs | X |
| Standard Warranty Length | 2 years |
| Warranty Type | Manufacturer’s NDL |
| Material Defects | ✓ |
| Installation Errors | ✓ |
| Storm Damage | X |
| Maintenance Requirements | ✓ |
| Labor Costs | ✓ |
| Standard Warranty Length | 20 years |
Commercial Roof Warranty vs. Insurance
At first glance, a warranty and insurance might seem to serve the same purpose: they both offer protection against potential losses. However, when examined more closely, clear distinctions emerge. Understanding these differences is crucial to avoiding unexpected financial setbacks in the future.
Commercial Roof Warranty
Purpose: A warranty is essentially a guarantee, typically made by the manufacturer or contractor, assuring the quality and longevity of their product or service. A warranty provides coverage if the roofing system fails or leak issues occur because of the quality of materials or workmanship.
Coverage Scope: A roof warranty mainly covers roof leaks related to defects in materials or errors in workmanship. Even comprehensive “No Dollar Limit” warranties have many limitations and exclusions the building owner should be a aware of. For example, roof warranties do not cover the repair of interior property and equipment damaged by roof leaks.
Duration: Warranties have a defined term, often ranging from 5 to 30 years, depending on the manufacturer, material, and warranty type.
Exclusions: Issues stemming from external factors, like third party damage, severe weather, accidents, or neglect, are typically not covered.
Property Insurance
Purpose: Insurance is a policy that guarantees compensation for specific potential future losses. It protects business owners from unforeseen incidents that might damage their roofing system.
Coverage Scope: Insurance covers many events, including natural disasters, fires, vandalism, and accidents. Insurance covers unforeseen damages rather than product or workmanship defects.
Duration: Insurance policies are usually annual, requiring renewal. Premiums and coverages may change upon each renewal based on assessments of risk and claims history.
Exclusions: Certain events might not be covered by a standard insurance policy. For example, damages due to normal wear and tear or acknowledged neglect might not be included. Additionally, some policies might exclude specific natural disasters unless added as a special endorsement.
What Can Void a Commercial Roofing Warranty?
Investing in a commercial roof is a significant business decision, and the accompanying warranty is a testament to its longevity and quality. A roof warranty serves not only as a safeguard against potential defects but also as an assurance of the roof’s performance over time.
However, it’s essential to understand that this protection isn’t unconditional. A commercial roofing warranty isn’t just a promise; it’s a binding agreement with specific conditions to maintain:
Neglected Maintenance: Overlooking regular roof maintenance can lead to issues that could have been avoided, potentially nullifying your warranty.
Unsanctioned Repairs: Taking the DIY approach or hiring unlicensed contractors may compromise parts or the entirety of your warranty coverage.
Modifications Without Approval: Adding structures or equipment, like HVAC units, Solar Panel, or Pavers, without prior notification or authorization from the warranty provider could place your coverage at risk.
The Ideal Building Solutions Safe, Clean & Dry Maintenance Membership
By taking a proactive and planned approach to roof maintenance, commercial property owners can help keep their roof warranties in good standing while reducing the risk of surprise repair bills. Regular roof maintenance removes potential hazards that could jeopardize the long-term stability of a roof and identifies issues early on before more serious problems can develop. By keeping a roof in good condition, property owners can extend the lifespan of their roof and safeguard their investment.
At Ideal Building Solutions, our Safe, Clean & Dry Maintenance Membership program offers exactly what’s needed to extend the lifespan of your commercial roof while providing peace of mind, knowing your business is protected. Our program includes:
Manufacturer Warranty Assurance
Our team ensures your roof meets the manufacturer’s standards to keep your warranty in good standing.
Roof Assessments
Our specialists review your roof’s condition, spotting potential issues and assessing its longevity.
Action Plan Report
Post-inspection, we provide a recommendation on improving your roof’s condition and repairing any existing damage to prevent future leaks.
Bi-Annual Inspections
Stay informed with twice-a-year roof inspections, keeping you up-to-date with your roof’s current condition.
Detail Post-Inspection Reports
After each inspection, we outline essential maintenance tasks, from storm cleanup to gutter cleaning.
Fast-Track Leak Fix
If leaks develop, members get priority repairs within 24 hours on weekdays at no extra charge.
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