HOW TO NOT VOID YOUR ROOF WARRANTY
Reputable roofing material manufacturers often provide warranties on their products. But every warranty–no matter the product or service–comes with rules and regulations. Professional roofing contractors are familiar with the warranties of the products they install and will do their best to ensure little to no risk of voiding those products’ warranties during your roof installation. Choosing a contractor who is certified to install the shingles of your choice can help prevent voiding the shingle manufacturer’s warranty.
However, it’s important to do your part, as well, and make note of what to do if you want your roof warranty to last full term.
Avoid voiding your roof warranty by making sure you and your roofing contractor follow these six simple rules.
1. USE QUALIFYING MATERIALS
It’s not uncommon for shingle manufacturers to make other roofing materials, such as the underlayment used in the roofing process. Some shingle manufacturers require contractors to use only their materials in order to guarantee a roof warranty. It’s essential that you discuss this with your roofing contractor and review the necessary documents prior to getting your roof replaced.
2. INSTALL THE ROOF CORRECTLY
Most warranties provided by material manufacturers clearly state the correct way to install the products, down to the last nail. To ensure proper installation of your roof decking, underlayment, ice and water shield, and shingles, don’t go it alone. Hire a professional roofing contractor to do the job.
Some contractors also provide a labor warranty in addition to that of the manufacturer, so it’s worth exploring your options when you’re looking to get your roof replaced. Greenawalt Roofing Company provides a 12-year workmanship warranty and is a CertainTeed 5-Star SELECT ShingleMaster. That means our roofers show up to your job having been specifically trained on proper shingle installation, helping to ensure CertainTeed’s shingle warranty stays intact long after they’re done.
3. DO NOT PUT NEW ROOFING MATERIALS ON TOP OF OLD MATERIALS
While it falls under #2 of this list, we feel this nugget is important enough to emphasize on its own.
The reason you’re looking to get your roof replaced is to ensure the safety of your home and its inhabitants. You deserve all new materials, and a professional roofing contractor will never reuse old underlayment or ice and water shield. Installing new shingles on top of old underlayment may cause lifting or other issues that can lead to a shorter lifespan for your shingles. Roof components best protect you and your loved ones when they’re all replaced simultaneously.
4. ENSURE YOUR ROOF STAYS PROPERLY VENTILATED
Proper ventilation is essential in order for roofing materials to perform at their best. Poor roof ventilation can lead to mold or mildew, and if your roof suffers damage as a result, most manufacturers won’t honor your roof’s warranty.
If you’re looking for a new ventilation system, we at Greenawalt Roofing recommend and can install Air Vent ventilation systems.
5. AVOID PRESSURE WASHING YOUR ROOF
Many homeowners don’t think about the need to keep their roof clean. Sure, seasonal gutter cleaning is important, but your roof needs just as much care. However, think twice before you pick up a pressure washer. Many shingle manufacturers advise against pressure washing your roof, and in some cases, it can instantly void your roof warranty. Why? The pressure of the water can destroy the quality of asphalt shingles, pushing off the granules. And you also risk pushing water further underneath the shingles than they can handle, which means you’re more likely to develop a mold issue that will affect the shingles’ performance and damage the longevity of your roof.
6. DO NOT DRILL HOLES IN YOUR ROOF
This may seem like common sense, but it often gets overlooked when homeowners decide to install decorations or antennae. Putting holes in your roof increases the likelihood of leaks and long-term water damage leading to a voided warranty and costly out-of-pocket expenses.
With the countless entertainment alternatives we have today, there’s no need to invest in satellite dishes for access to news channels and the latest TV shows. Why risk voiding a 25- to 50-year shingle warranty for information so easily accessible on the internet? If you need to install a satellite dish or tv antenna outside, seek professional advice and assistance for safe placement.
In addition, consider any accessories you may want to add to your roof before you have it replaced. Installing skylights or solar panels following your new roof installation comes with the risk of voiding your new roof warranty.
BONUS TIP: CHOOSE THE RIGHT ROOFING CONTRACTOR
When it comes to roof warranties, you deserve a roofing contractor who knows the products they install. Greenawalt Roofing Company recommends–and prefers–CertainTeed shingles, as CertainTeed provides extensive limited warranties on its products that we are proud to stand behind. Learn more about our warranty here or contact us today for a free consultation and more information on preserving your roof’s warranty.