Warranty and closeout
Clear warranty paperwork, not vague promises.
The right warranty depends on the material, manufacturer, scope, roof condition, and project type. SunCraft explains what applies before you approve the work.
How roofing warranties actually work.
Roofing warranties come from two places: the manufacturer (covering material defects in the membrane, shingle, tile, or coating) and the installer (covering workmanship on the installation itself). The terms, durations, and what is required to keep the warranty active vary significantly between systems. SunCraft documents which warranties apply to your scope before work begins, so the paperwork is part of the project, not an afterthought.
Most manufacturer warranties also require documented maintenance to stay in force. A 20-year warranty that has been voided by missed maintenance is not worth much when the membrane actually fails. The closeout package should include the maintenance requirements for your specific system.
What you should receive at closeout
- Final walk-through with photos of the completed roof
- Cleanup confirmation: yard, gutters, perimeter, and driveway
- Material and system notes: what was installed, by which manufacturer
- Manufacturer warranty paperwork when applicable to the system
- Workmanship terms documented in writing
- Maintenance recommendations to keep the warranty in force
- Contact path for any post-project questions
Before you sign
Ask these warranty questions.
Vague warranty language is one of the most common ways owners end up disappointed two or three years into a roof project. Get specifics in writing before approving the scope.
Is the manufacturer warranty transferable if I sell the property?
It depends on the manufacturer and the warranty class. Some warranties transfer one time at no cost, others have a transfer fee or limited transfer window, and some are non-transferable. Ask before approving the scope so you know.
What voids the manufacturer warranty?
Common voiders: missing required maintenance, modifications by another contractor (penetrations, satellite installs), prolonged ponding water, and physical damage. The exact terms are in the warranty document.
Does the warranty cover labor, materials, or both?
This is the most important question. Some warranties cover material only, meaning if the membrane fails, the manufacturer ships a new membrane but you pay for the labor to install it. Better warranties cover labor too, often called "no dollar limit" warranties. The difference can be significant on a commercial roof.
What about SunCraft's workmanship warranty?
Workmanship terms are documented per project. Length and coverage depend on the system installed and the scope. The terms are written into the project paperwork, not assumed verbally.