Quick Summary
- Check GAF’s WindProven coverage for Gloucester County
- Differentiate material vs workmanship warranties
- RGB supports registration & annual inspections
- Transferable warranty available for NJ commercial properties
A commercial roof is an investment, just like any other facet of your business. In order to make the most of your investment, you also need to consider the warranty. A commercial roof warranty isn’t just paperwork that you can file away. It’s long-term protection against the unexpected. Before you sign off on a roofing contract, learn about what the warranty covers, what it excludes, and how you can stay compliant.
At RGB Construction, we believe that an informed building owner is a protected one. This guide will walk you through the key components of commercial roofing warranties and help you avoid costly surprises down the road.
Key Takeaways
- A commercial roof warranty provides long-term protection and financial security against unexpected defects or installation issues, making it a crucial part of your roofing investment.
- There are three main types of commercial roof warranties: a manufacturer’s material warranty (covers defects in materials), a manufacturer’s full system warranty (covers materials and labor), and a contractor workmanship warranty (covers installation-related errors).
- Most warranties do not cover storm damage, neglect, unauthorized modifications, or issues caused by poor maintenance—so regular inspections and proper documentation are essential.
- Before signing a warranty, ask clear questions about what’s covered, what can void the warranty, who backs it, and whether maintenance is required to keep it valid.
Why a Commercial Roof Warranty Matters
A commercial roof can last anywhere from 10 to 40 years, depending on the quality of the materials, installation, and maintenance practices. Unfortunately, even durable roofing systems can develop issues over time. A commercial roof warranty is, essentially, a safety net that ensures:
- Financial protection if problems arise within the warranty period
- Accountability from contractors and manufacturers in the event of a defect or installation issue
- Confidence that your roofing system will perform as promised
Types of Commercial Roof Warranties
The commercial roof warranty you receive may be different than the one the business next door received. Furthermore, not all commercial roof warranties offer the same level of protection. Before you sign your contract, it’s important to understand the different kinds of commercial roof warranties, as well as what each one covers.
1. Manufacturer’s Material Warranty
A manufacturer’s material warranty covers defects in the roofing materials, such as membranes, insulation, and flashing. This type of warranty protects against premature aging, material breakdown, and manufacturing defects. However, it typically does not cover problems related to installation errors, storm damage, or a lack of regular maintenance. These warranties can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years, depending on the product and the terms outlined by the manufacturer.
2. Manufacturer’s Full System Warranty
A manufacturer’s full system warranty—often referred to as a No Dollar Limit (NDL) warranty—is the most comprehensive option. It covers both the materials and the labor needed to fix a covered issue, no matter the cost. This includes material and installation defects, leaks due to system failure, and full replacement of affected areas when necessary. However, full system warranties often come with strict conditions. These may include requiring the roof to be installed by certified contractors, undergoing mandatory inspections, and following strict maintenance procedures.
As a GAF Master Elite contractor, we can install commercial roofing systems that qualify for NDL warranties whenever possible to provide maximum protection to our South Jersey clients.
3. Contractor Workmanship Warranty
A contractor workmanship warranty is issued by the contractor who installs the roof. It covers installation-related issues such as improper flashing, poor seam work, or other detailing flaws. While the scope of this warranty is typically narrower than manufacturer warranties, it plays a crucial role in addressing short-term problems that may arise after installation. Workmanship warranties often last between 1 and 10 years, depending on the contractor’s policies.
At RGB Construction, we take pride in the quality of our work, which is why we also offer workmanship warranties on every project.
What’s Not Covered in a Typical Commercial Roof Warranty
As a business owner or property manager, you already know to read the fine print. It’s the same with warranties. Some exclusions in the fine print could leave you responsible for certain damages or repairs.
Common exclusions include:
- Storm damage
- Unauthorized repairs or modifications, particularly those done by unlicensed or uncertified roofing contractors
- Roof penetrations made after roof installation, including HVAC or signage
- Neglect or failure to maintain the roof
- Ponding water due to clogged flat roof drainage systems
Knowing the exclusions also means you know how to keep the warranties valid. Make sure you document inspections and repairs to show ongoing maintenance. Keep the roof clean and free of debris. If you need any work done, use a certified contractor. Warranty-compliant maintenance ensures that your warranties aren’t breached.
Questions to Ask Before Signing a Commercial Roof Warranty
If anything is uncertain, ask questions. A trusted roofing contractor should be able to answer your questions and give you peace of mind. Here are some questions you can ask to gain more clarity about the warranties detailed in a roofing contract:
- What type of warranty am I receiving—materials only or full system?
- Who backs the warranty—the manufacturer or contractor?
- What is the duration of the coverage? Are there any prorated terms?
- What actions could void my warranty?
- Are inspections or maintenance plans required?
- What is the claims process, and how quickly are repairs handled?
Knowing these answers upfront will help you choose the right roofing partner and plan accordingly.
Get a Commercial Roof Warranty from RGB Construction
A commercial roof warranty is only as good as the materials, installation, and service behind it. At RGB Construction, we guide every client through their warranty options so they understand what they’re getting—and how to keep it valid. We proudly serve Gloucester, Camden, and Burlington County with reliable commercial roofing systems, certified installations, and long-term support.
Call 856-264-9093 or schedule a consultation online today to learn more about commercial roofing warranties and what coverage is best for your building.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does a commercial roof warranty typically cover?
A: It usually covers defects in materials and workmanship. RGB ensures all GAF commercial roof systems in South Jersey are backed by top-tier warranty coverage.
Q: How long do commercial roof warranties last in New Jersey?
A: Warranties can range from 10 to 30+ years. As a GAF Master Elite® contractor, RGB Construction offers extended warranties on commercial roofing in Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington Counties.
Q: Are roof leaks covered under warranty?
A: Yes—if the leak results from manufacturer defects or improper installation. We document all South Jersey installs for full eligibility.
Q: What voids a commercial roofing warranty?
A: Poor maintenance, unapproved repairs, or alterations. RGB provides maintenance plans to keep your warranty valid.
Q: Do I need to register my warranty?
A: Yes. RGB handles all registration for your GAF commercial roofing system in South Jersey as part of our service.
Q: Can I transfer my roof warranty if I sell my property?
A: Many commercial warranties are transferable. RGB can assist with the transfer process if you’re selling your South Jersey property.
Q: What’s the difference between a manufacturer and a contractor warranty?
A: Manufacturer warranties cover materials; contractor warranties cover workmanship. RGB provides both, including exclusive GAF System Plus and Golden Pledge® options.
Q: Why is warranty-backed commercial roofing important in South Jersey?
A: With frequent storms and fluctuating weather, a strong warranty protects your investment and ensures compliance with NJ building codes.
