Understanding Your Roofing Warranty

Before we dive into maintaining your warranty, it's vital to understand the kind of warranty you have. In commercial roofing, there are generally three types:

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• - Manufacturer's Material Warranty: This covers defects in the roofing membrane itself. If the product fails due to a manufacturing flaw, the cost of new materials may be covered, but not always the labor.
• - Manufacturer's System Warranty: This is a more comprehensive warranty. It often includes both materials and installation, as long as the roof is installed by a certified contractor.
• - Contractor's Workmanship Warranty: Issued by the installer, this covers workmanship errors and is usually valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the contractor.

Knowing the terms of your specific warranty—including what's covered, what voids it, and the length of coverage—is the first step in protecting it. We always recommend reading the fine print or having your roofer explain it clearly right after installation.

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Why Warranties Get Voided: Common Mistakes We See

Too often, business owners call about a warranty claim only to learn that their coverage has been invalidated. Here are the most common reasons warranties get voided:

• - Lack of routine inspections or documentation
• - Unauthorized repairs or modifications by another contractor
• - Improper maintenance or neglecting to fix minor issues
• - Installing equipment on the roof without approval or protection
• - Failing to notify the manufacturer about damage within the required time window

These aren't rare occurrences—they happen all the time. Fortunately, every one of them is preventable with a few simple practices.

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Schedule Regular Roof Inspections (and Keep Records)

Most roofing manufacturers require regular inspections (typically once or twice per year) as a condition of the warranty. These inspections must be performed by a qualified professional, often one certified by the manufacturer. We generally recommend scheduling inspections every spring and fall, as well as an extra inspection after any major weather event.

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Each inspection should include a detailed report documenting the condition of the roof, any damage found, photos of the issues, and a list of recommended repairs. Keep all inspection reports, repair invoices, and correspondence related to your roof in a centralized file. This paper trail is critical if you ever need to file a claim—it proves you did your part.

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Routine Maintenance: Fix Small Issues Before They Become Big Problems

One of the most important things you can do to protect your warranty (and your building) is address minor roofing issues quickly. These small issues are most commonly uncovered during your routine maintenance. Specific maintenance requirements may also be outlined in your warranty. Why? Small punctures, separated seams, or clogged drains can quickly escalate into major water intrusion because they weren't dealt with early.

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Many warranties specifically state that failure to make timely repairs can void coverage. It's not just about protecting the roof membrane—it's about showing the manufacturer that the system has been properly maintained. If an issue is identified during an inspection, follow through with the repairs right away. It could mean the difference between a fully covered warranty claim and a rejected one.

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Always Use Approved Roofing Contractors for Repairs

Another common reason for denied warranty claims is using unapproved or unqualified contractors to perform roofing work. Most system warranties require repairs to be done by a certified installer who is authorized by the manufacturer. This ensures that the work meets their standards and doesn't compromise the integrity of the system.

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For example, it may seem easy to have a general handyman patch a roofing leak; however, this can alter the roofing system in a way that voids the entire warranty. To avoid this, always check with your roofing manufacturer, the experts at Allied Roofing, or your original contractor before hiring someone to perform work on the roof.

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Be Cautious with Rooftop Installations

Any time a third-party contractor (like an HVAC technician or solar installer) goes on your roof, there's a risk of damage. Punctured membranes, displaced flashings, and crushed insulation are common side effects of heavy foot traffic or careless equipment placement.

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If you're planning a rooftop installation, consult with your roofer first. We can help coordinate the work, recommend protection for the roof membrane, and inspect the roof after the job is complete. In many cases, manufacturers require that any penetrations or alterations be pre-approved, or your warranty could be voided.

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Report Damage Promptly

The weather in Kernersville and Winston-Salem can be unpredictable and severe. If your roof experiences storm damage, leaks, or any other significant issue, it's your responsibility to notify the manufacturer and/or installer within a specific time frame—often 30 to 60 days. Delaying a report can give the manufacturer grounds to deny the claim, especially if they believe the damage worsened due to inaction.

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That's why we always recommend calling immediately after a storm. We can assess the damage, take emergency steps to prevent further loss, and help you file a timely and accurate warranty claim if needed.

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Keep Access Controlled and Monitored

Limiting who accesses your commercial roof is another easy way to maintain warranty compliance. Install signs, use access logs, and train staff or contractors on basic roof safety and protection procedures. Unauthorized foot traffic is one of the top causes of avoidable roof damage. If someone drops a tool, drags equipment, or walks across a vulnerable membrane section, it can lead to leaks that may not be covered under warranty.

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Ask about walk pads or designated service paths. These simple upgrades help protect high-traffic areas and show manufacturers that you're taking adequate care of your system.

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Allied Roofing: Protecting Your Roofing Warranty 

As commercial roofing specialists, Allied Roofing understands that warranties offer peace of mind—but only if you hold up your end of the agreement. Thankfully, we have you covered with the installation expertise, maintenance care, and repair services you need to keep your warranty protected. Our professionals proudly serve the roofing needs of businesses in Kernersville, Winston-Salem, and beyond. You can explore our work and contact our roofing experts to get started today!

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