A metal roof warranty is one of the most compelling arguments for this material. Manufacturers offer protection of up to 50 years, or even longer. However, not all warranties are equal. Some cover only the materials. Others include labour. Many also contain exclusions that may surprise you.
In this article, we distinguish between the three types of warranties. We explain what can void them. We also give you concrete tips to protect your investment.
The manufacturer’s warranty: protection for the materials
The manufacturer’s warranty covers defects related to the material itself. In other words, if the steel corrodes too early, it comes into play. The same goes if the paint peels abnormally. Any manufacturing defect in the metal also triggers this protection.
At Metal Roof Canada, the roofs use SSAB GreenCoat steel, a premium European material. These products come with a 50-year non-prorated warranty. In practical terms, the value of this warranty doesn’t decrease over time. Many competitors instead offer prorated warranties, which are therefore less advantageous.
In addition, this warranty covers resistance to corrosion (RC5) and UV rays (RUV 4). It also protects colour retention over time. As a result, if your roof shows abnormal deterioration, the manufacturer replaces the defective material. Therefore, keep all the documentation provided at the time of purchase. It serves as your proof of coverage.
The labour warranty: the quality of the installation
The labour warranty works differently from the manufacturer’s warranty. The contractor who installs your roof offers it directly. It covers installation errors: leaks, poorly installed flashing or inadequate fasteners.
In Quebec, this warranty generally lasts between 5 and 10 years. The Civil Code also provides a one-year legal warranty against visible defects in workmanship. It adds a five-year warranty against loss of the work. These protections apply automatically, even if they aren’t mentioned in the contract.
However, one important point deserves your attention. This warranty remains valid only if the company still exists. Choose a contractor that has been established for several years and holds a valid RBQ licence. Metal Roof Canada, in business since 2012, offers a lifetime inspection and maintenance program. This follow-up supports its clients well beyond the standard warranty.
The transferable warranty: an asset at resale
An often overlooked advantage of a metal roof warranty is its transferability. Indeed, many manufacturers allow the warranty to be transferred to the new owner when the home is sold.
This feature adds concrete value to your property. A potential buyer knows they won’t have to replace the roof for decades. As a result, your home stands out on the real estate market. It can also justify a higher selling price.
For the transfer to work, you must meet certain conditions. You generally need to notify the manufacturer in writing. You must also provide the original installation documents. So keep your contract, invoices and warranty certificate in a safe place.
What can void your warranty
Even the best metal roof warranty has exclusions. Several common situations can render it void.
- Neglected maintenance: debris in the gutters and a lack of safe snow removal are problematic. A lack of regular inspections can also justify a denied claim.
- Inadequate ventilation or insulation: without sufficient ventilation, condensation damages the metal from the inside. Many manufacturers explicitly exclude this type of damage.
- Unauthorized modifications: drilling into the roof to install an antenna or a solar panel without the roofer’s approval often voids the labour warranty.
- Work by an unqualified third party: another contractor who repairs your roof without following the manufacturer’s specifications compromises the materials warranty.
- Extreme natural events: exceptional hail, high winds or a falling tree fall under your home insurance, not the warranty.
In short, a warranty protects against manufacturing and installation defects. However, it doesn’t replace responsible maintenance or an insurance policy.
How to protect your warranty day to day
Protecting your metal roof warranty takes little effort. However, diligence makes all the difference. Here are the essential steps to take as soon as the installation is complete.
First, keep your documents in a safe place. Keep the signed contract, the detailed invoices and the manufacturer’s warranty certificate. Also, add photos of the roof after installation. These documents make up your proof file.
Next, schedule a visual inspection at least twice a year. Spring and fall are the best times. Check the condition of the flashing, gutters and fasteners. If you notice a problem, contact your roofer quickly. Avoid attempting a repair yourself.
In addition, check that your attic ventilation meets standards. According to the Association des consommateurs pour la qualité dans la construction, insufficient ventilation is a common reason for warranty denials in Quebec. Finally, never have equipment installed on your roof without consulting your installer.
Conclusion
A metal roof warranty offers exceptional protection. Still, you need to understand it properly and meet its conditions. There are three types of warranties: manufacturer, labour and legal protections. Each one covers different elements. By telling them apart, you know exactly what protects you.
Choose a reliable contractor and maintain your roof regularly. Also, keep all your documents from day one. These simple steps protect your investment for decades.
Planning a metal roof project? Contact Metal Roof Canada for a detailed quote that includes all warranties.
