Roofs Have Come So Far

3 Ways You Can Void Your Roofing Warranty

After you install a new roof, you get a manufacturer's warranty that covers roofing components and a workmanship warranty that covers installation errors. These warranties ensure that you don't pay out of pocket should anything happen to your roof. 

However, some actions can invalidate your warranty even when you mean well. Here are several missteps that will lead to the rejection of your roofing claims. 

Pressure Washing Your Roof

Over time, moss, grime, algae, and debris build up on your roof surface. These substances trap roof-damaging moisture, which results in frost damage, cracked shingles, and other roof problems. Some homeowners opt to pressure wash their roofs to eradicate moss and algae. 

Unfortunately, most roofing materials can't withstand pressure washing. For instance, high-pressure levels can erode asphalt granules and cause your asphalt shingles roof to deteriorate faster. For a tile roof, power washing can cut through sealants and damage the underlayment or loosen the flashing, which results in a leaky roof. 

Pressure washing your roof may end up doing more harm than good. A better alternative is to install zinc strips near your roof ridge to inhibit moss, fungus, and algae growth on your roof. 

Poor Roof Ventilation

Your roof's ventilation pulls fresh air through your attic and eliminates overheated air through the vents. Conversely, inadequate ventilation traps heat and moisture in your roof decking and attic. As a result, mold grows on your roof and causes structural deterioration. 

Poor ventilation also compromises the structural soundness of your attic and roof. Some causes of poor ventilation include: 

If you experience roofing issues due to improper ventilation, your warranty might not cover them. For instance, your warranty will not cover the repairs if the shingles curl, bend, or lose granules due to poor vent installation. 

Installation of New Fixtures on Your Roof

When you want to install new hardware on your roof, you have to drill holes into the roof, remove shingles, or cut a portion of your roof. In doing so, your roof becomes susceptive to leaks. 

No doubt, solar panels, satellite dishes, skylights, and antenna installation will look good on your roof. However, your warranty will not cover leaks that stem from drilling holes into the roof during the installation of these fixtures.

This doesn't mean that you can't install anything on your roof. But ensure that you always enlist a qualified roofing technician as you add new hardware to the roof to ensure your warranty remains valid.

For peace of mind, only work with certified roofers on all your roofing projects. Doing so not only maintains your roof in perfect shape but also protects your investment with a valid warranty. 

For more information on roofing services, contact a company near you.