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Maintenance Guides

Understanding Your Commercial Roof Warranty

Manufacturer vs contractor warranties, what voids them, and how maintenance affects warranty coverage.

NovaRoof Team
7 min read

Your commercial roof warranty is only as good as your understanding of it. Here's what every building owner needs to know.

Types of Warranties

Manufacturer Warranty

Covers defects in roofing materials:

  • Membrane failures
  • Premature deterioration
  • Material defects

Typical duration: 10-30 years

What it covers: Material replacement only

What it doesn't cover: Labor, consequential damage

Contractor Workmanship Warranty

Covers installation quality:

  • Improper seam welds
  • Incorrect flashing installation
  • Application errors

Typical duration: 2-10 years

What it covers: Repair or redo of faulty work

What it doesn't cover: Material defects, acts of God

NDL (No Dollar Limit) Warranty

Premium warranty covering both materials and labor with no caps.

Typical duration: 10-20 years

What it covers: Full repair/replacement cost

Cost: Higher upfront premium

What Voids Your Warranty

Common warranty killers:

1. Improper maintenance - Most warranties require regular maintenance

2. Unauthorized repairs - Using non-approved contractors

3. Roof traffic damage - Unreported foot traffic damage

4. Modifications - Adding HVAC units, signs, etc. without notice

5. Chemical exposure - Unauthorized chemical contact

How Maintenance Affects Coverage

Most warranties include maintenance requirements:

  • Bi-annual inspections (often by certified contractor)
  • Documented maintenance records
  • Prompt repair of identified issues
  • Notification of any damage

No maintenance = No warranty

Warranty Claims Process

1. Document the problem with photos

2. Review your warranty terms

3. Contact manufacturer and/or contractor

4. Provide maintenance records

5. Allow inspection

6. Follow claim procedures

Protecting Your Investment

Best practices:

  • Read your warranty completely
  • Keep all documentation
  • Schedule required inspections
  • Use approved contractors
  • Report issues promptly
  • Maintain records

NovaRoof Warranty Services

We provide:

  • Warranty-compliant inspections
  • Documented maintenance programs
  • Claim assistance
  • Certified repair work

Contact us to discuss your warranty requirements.

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NovaRoof Team

Expert commercial roofing insights from the NovaRoof team. We help building owners make informed decisions about their roofing investments.

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