What’s in Your Roof System Manufacturer Warranty?
At the end of your roofing project, you’ll receive a roof system manufacturer warranty. It’s easy to toss it in a file cabinet or just let your inbox swallow it up. You might not even give it a second thought until the roof leaks. Then you’ll want to know what it says and what it covers. We’ve got a general summary here of what’s in most manufacturer warranties, but you’ll still need to find and read the specific language on your own.
What’s covered and what’s not?
Damage from weather, animals and insects, war or acts of terrorism, vandalism, and failure to maintain the roof are not typically covered by your roof system manufacturer’s warranty. Coverage typically only results from material defects and poor workmanship by an authorized applicator.
What does your roof system manufacturer warranty require?
The warranty describes your obligation as the building owner and usually states along with a variety of recommended actions, the following three items:
- Take reasonable care of the roof system over its life.
- Notify the manufacturer within a specified number of days (typically 30) after a leak is discovered.
- Provide notice to the manufacturer when any modifications are being made to the roof (e.g., a new penetration).
What voids the warranty?
You must heed all warnings and care for your roof system in the manner required by your warranty. Failing to do so could render it null and void. Most warranties require you to alert (and get authorization from) the manufacturer before modifying, altering, or repairing the roof. Failure to use reasonable care in maintaining the roof or repairing unwarranted leaks promptly can also void the warranty.
What manufacturer recommendations should I know about?
Detailed maintenance recommendations are not usually included in the warranty; the manufacturer often supplies a separate document outlining the recommended care for your roof system. This makeshift owner’s manual often includes general guidance on the timing and frequency of roof inspections. Usually, spring and fall are the best times to inspect as well as after any severe weather events. Other information that’s often included is the recommendation to document maintenance inspections, rooftop traffic, and services performed on the roof. Don’t forget to retain photos and invoices as well. And should you detect a leak, need to alter the roof, or want to transfer the warranty to another party, instructions are provided.
Your manufacturer will likely also share expectations about normal wear over the roof’s life (e.g., a membrane may experience minor changes in appearance including discoloration and small wrinkles) and common causes of roof damage like foot traffic, high winds, and contaminants (i.e., acids, oils, fats, chemicals, and organic solvents).
Consider rereading your roof system manufacturer warranty and supplemental information. Your roofing contractor can help explain anything confusing, document roof care, and even devise a routine schedule of maintenance and inspections to help you comply with warranty requirements.
For help meeting your roof system manufacturer warranty requirements, call D. C. Taylor Co. at 319.731.4118 or email [email protected] today.
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