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Don’t Void Your Roof’s Warranty: 6 Common Errors to Avoid

A great warranty can be a selling point when choosing your new roof. However, if you ever need to file a claim, you first have to make sure that you or your roofing contractor have not done anything to void the warranty.

But, before we jump into voiding warranties, it’s important to understand that there are two types of warranties for roofing jobs, the workmanship, and the manufacturer’s warranty. The workmanship warranty is offered by the contractor and will cover the employee’s work. The manufacturer’s warranty covers the actual products being installed.

In this article, we are discussing manufacturer’s warranties because, unfortunately, there are many cases where they can be voided. While every warranty will have its own specifications, here are six things that will likely void any roofing manufacturer’s warranty.

1. Improper Installation

The most common way that a warranty is voided is through an error in installation. Most warranties are particular about how the product should be installed. Inexperienced contractors and DIY attempts make up the majority of installation issues. Make sure your contractor has a long and positive service record that shows their experience.

2. Incorrect Ventilation

Your roof works as a system with your insulation and ventilation to keep your home a consistent temperature. Without the right ventilation, moisture can become trapped under the roof, creating an environment perfect for mold and mildew. If you experience issues with a roofing product, but the actual problem stemmed from ventilation, your roofing product warranty will not cover it.

3. Layering New Materials Over Old

It can seem like an inexpensive fix to simply layer new shingles over the old ones. But this will absolutely void any manufacturer’s warranty. If shingles are not installed over a new underlayment, they will not lay flat and will fail faster. Additionally, the extra weight puts a strain on your decking and joists. If a contractor even suggests layering new shingles over the old ones, you should pass on them.

4. Pressure Washing

Routine maintenance is key to making your roof last as long as possible. However, pressure washing is a controversial topic among shingle manufacturers. Some will state that their shingles can withstand pressure washing, while others will void the warranty. Pressure washing can remove asphalt granules and even push water up underneath the shingles, creating a damp spot that doesn’t dry out properly and leads to mold, mildew, and rot and more leaks!

5. Installing New Hardware on the Roof

Any time you are drilling holes into your roof, there is a chance that it will void your warranty. New holes are essentially new spaces that can be prone to leaks. If you are considering installing a satellite dish, antenna, skylight, or even solar panels, make sure to read the fine print on your roof manufacturer’s warranty first.

6. Using Different Brands

Your roof is comprised of multiple layers. Manufacturers will engineer shingles, starter shingles, ice/water barriers, and underlayment that work best together. If your contractor uses different brands, it could void the manufacturer’s warranty because it compromises the roof’s overall integrity. Make sure to ask your contractor for clarification if the contract states that they will be using materials from different manufacturers.

Every warranty will have unique details, so be sure to look over yours carefully before signing a contract. Your roofing contractor should be familiar with the manufacturer’s warranty and be able to provide contact information for the manufacturer to answer any further questions you may have.

Brothers offers both a workmanship and manufacturer’s warranty so that your roof is protected for years to come. If you need a roof replacement or even just a small repair, Brothers master craftsmen are ready for the job. Schedule a consultation with one of our roofing experts to get started.