Roof installation and everything it encompasses is never a walk in the park. From purchasing the roofing material, searching for a qualified roofing contractor to performing the installation, the process can either be stressful or successful. While the goal is to have a stable roof over your head, you do not always get high-quality service you deserve. Aside from incorrect installation, there can be other reasons you can void your roof warranty. One thing is for sure, though – they all have to do with human error.
It can cost you a fortune to replace your roof. This is why when you are still under warranty you can save a lot on both labor and materials. How come some homeowners are not careful with keeping their warranty intact? More often than not, misconceptions about warranty get a lot of homeowners into trouble. If you are unsure about the terms and conditions of your warranty, it is better to ask a roofing specialist. By getting informed, missteps will not lead to rendering your roof warranty useless.
These mistakes can put you at risk of voiding your roof warranty
Incorrect Roof Installation
Yep! Your warranty can become non-existent if you are not careful about the installation process. Voiding your warranty due to improper installation is not a unique case. In fact, it happens a lot. When you purchase your roof from a manufacturer, you will be given specific installation directions that you have to adhere to strictly.
The reason they provide you with these instructions is to make sure that the roof will perform as advertised. The problem is, when you choose a roofer that is not competent enough to complete the installation carefully, the manufacturer’s instructions will inevitably get overlooked. When a roofer does not have a sound knowledge about the installation process, you can end up facing a problem.
Worse, the roofers who installed your roof will probably not be around when you need them most. It is therefore critical that you take the time to choose a professional roofer. A roofing manufacturer will be able to give you great recommendations. You are dealing with a trustworthy company if it has been in the industry for years. The company should also show you that they are insured, bonded, and licensed.
Perforations
Another reason your warranty can be voided is when you punch holes in your roof to install satellite dishes, skylights, antennas, solar panels, or HVAC systems. However, you should keep in mind that undertaking any roofing projects is not prohibited as long as you coordinate with a roofing contractor. There is a proper way of installing these things to ensure that your roof remains intact. Your roofer can keep your warranty valid if the roofing project is performed correctly. While there are instances when a solar panel or skylight contractors offer a warranty for your roof, it is still necessary to talk to your manufacturer or roofer.
Using Pressure Washer
Grease, debris, and moss can accumulate in your roof over time. Pressure washing can do serious damage to your roof depending on its material. The water jet can destroy the structure, membrane, and substrate of your roof. With the damage caused by using a pressure washer, your roof warranty can become invalid because neither your manufacturer nor your roofer has committed the mistake. If you need to clean your roof, get in touch with a professional to avoid practices that can cause damage.
Improper Ventilation
Do you know that your roof warranty can be at stake due to poor ventilation? A professional roofer should be able to talk to you about proper ventilation. If this is not discussed, then you are dealing with the wrong roofer. Proper ventilation is important in ensuring that your roof will not experience roof damage. Any professional roofing contractor will tell you about its importance.
Roof Layers
In some cases, a new roof is installed on top of the old one. However, this practice can nullify your warranty. There are many reasons why roofers and manufacturers discourage this practice. It is not only about the design but the weight and performance of your roof as well. If your roofer has suggested that you can install a new roof on top of the old roof, you should check the installation and warranty documents of your manufacturer to make sure it’s acceptable. If the roof manufacturer does not permit this move, you should not skip a tear-off.
Your roof is an investment and the warranty you get form your manufacturer is beneficial when the time comes that you need to repair or replace your roof. However, like other things, the warranty comes with limitations that you have to be aware of. Make sure that you read the terms and conditions, before making some changes to your roof.