When it comes to roof replacements and repairs, warranties play a crucial role in ensuring peace of mind for property owners and lasting protection for their assets. There are many different warranties available in the market today and knowing just a little bit about them and what is included can go a long way in choosing the right one for protecting your roof in the years to come.
There are two main categories that roof warranties will fall under: Workmanship warranty and Manufacturer warranty. A workmanship warranty for commercial roofing, also known as a labor warranty, is a type of warranty provided by the contractor or roofing company responsible for installing or repairing the commercial roofing system. Unlike a manufacturer warranty, which covers defects in the roofing materials themselves, a workmanship warranty specifically covers errors or issues related to the installation of the roofing system.
A workmanship warranty is provided by the contractor and covers errors in installation or workmanship rather than defects in materials. It typically lasts 1 to 3 years, though longer durations may be available. The warranty ensures that issues such as leaks or improper sealing are addressed at no extra cost to the building owner during the warranty period. While responsibilities of the contractor include repairs, exclusions like damage from weather events may apply. Be aware that maintenance requirements may be necessary to uphold coverage. This warranty provides assurance that the roofing installation was performed correctly and guarantees prompt resolution of installation-related issues.
Manufacturer warranties are provided by roofing material manufacturers and cover defects in the roofing materials themselves. These warranties can vary significantly depending on the type of roofing material used. They can range from 5 to 20 years for commercial roofing systems. Most manufacturers offer what’s called a NDL (No Dollar Limit) warranty that provides extensive coverage for both materials and labor, ensuring that any defects or issues with the roofing system are repaired or replaced without a dollar limit during the warranty period. Some things to know about a NDL warranty include:
Coverage: NDL warranties cover a wide range of issues that may arise with the roofing system, including defects in materials, workmanship errors, and premature failures. This coverage extends to both the cost of materials and the labor required to repair or replace them.
Duration: NDL warranties typically have longer durations compared to standard warranties. They may range from 10 to 30 years or more, depending on the manufacturer and the specific terms of the warranty.
Cost: The cost of a NDL warranty for a commercial roofing system can vary based on several factors, including the type of roofing material, the size and complexity of the project, the duration of the warranty, and the specific terms and conditions set by the manufacturer. However, on average the cost of a 20 year NDL warranty is 1% of the total project cost.
No Dollar Limit: The term “No Dollar Limit” means that there is no maximum dollar amount specified for repairs or replacements covered by the warranty. This provides building owners with peace of mind, knowing that they won’t incur unexpected costs for roofing repairs during the warranty period.
Transferability: Some NDL warranties are transferable, meaning they can be transferred to subsequent building owners if the property is sold. This can add value to the property and provide assurance to new owners.
Maintenance Requirements: Like other warranties, NDL warranties often have maintenance requirements that must be followed to maintain coverage. Regular inspections, repairs, and upkeep may be necessary, and failure to comply with these requirements could void the warranty.
Understanding the intricacies of roof warranties is indispensable knowledge for property owners and managers seeking to protect their investments. Knowing about the different warranty offerings will help you make an informed decision when choosing the contractor and the type of material for your roof.
