When installing or repairing a commercial roof in New Jersey, the warranty you receive is just as important as the materials and workmanship themselves. But many property owners sign off on a roof project without fully understanding what their commercial roof warranty does—or doesn’t—cover.
At Boundless Roofing & Chimney, we believe in transparency. Whether you’re managing a retail center, industrial facility, apartment building, or office park, here’s what you need to know to confidently interpret your roofing warranty and protect your investment.
Why Roofing Warranties Matter
A roofing warranty isn’t just a piece of paper. It’s your protection against premature failure, faulty materials, or poor workmanship. With commercial roofing projects costing tens (or hundreds) of thousands of dollars, the right warranty ensures:
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Peace of mind during unexpected issues
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Protection against future costs
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Improved resale value
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Accountability from manufacturers and contractors
But not all warranties are created equal.
Types of Commercial Roof Warranties
1. Manufacturer’s Material Warranty
This warranty is issued by the roofing material manufacturer (not the contractor). It covers defects in the roofing membrane or materials—not labor or installation errors.
What it typically includes:
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Membrane deterioration or premature failure
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UV degradation (within rated time)
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Manufacturing defects in sheets, coatings, or accessories
What it typically excludes:
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Improper installation or flashing
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Damage from standing water or debris
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Storm, fire, or foot traffic damage
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Poor drainage or structural issues
⏱ Coverage: Usually 10 to 30 years depending on product
2. Workmanship (Labor) Warranty
This warranty is issued by the roofing contractor, such as Boundless Roofing & Chimney. It covers errors in installation or workmanship, which are a common cause of early roof problems.
What it typically includes:
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Flashing issues
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Seams improperly sealed
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Misapplied coatings or membranes
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Installation within manufacturer guidelines
What it typically excludes:
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Product defects (that’s the manufacturer’s role)
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Damage due to misuse, neglect, or weather
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Other trades (e.g., HVAC workers puncturing the membrane)
⏱ Coverage: Usually 1 to 10 years, depending on contractor and service agreement
3. Full-System (NDL) Warranty – No Dollar Limit
The NDL warranty is the most comprehensive—and most desirable—for commercial buildings. It’s often available only when certified contractors install a full roofing system from a single manufacturer.
What it typically includes:
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All materials and approved accessories
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Labor and workmanship
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Leak repairs due to any system-related cause
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Coverage up to full replacement cost (not prorated)
What it typically excludes:
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Structural failure (e.g., collapsed deck)
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Acts of God (hail, high wind, earthquake unless specified)
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Unauthorized modifications or penetrations
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Neglected maintenance or misuse
⏱ Coverage: 15 to 30 years (depending on manufacturer, installer, and roof type)
Common Misconceptions About Roofing Warranties
“It covers everything.”
→ Not true. Most warranties come with strict conditions and exclusions.
“I can install any product and still get full coverage.”
→ NDL warranties often require using a certified contractor and approved materials.
“I don’t need to maintain the roof if it’s under warranty.”
→ Most warranties require proof of regular maintenance—or they can be voided.
“If it leaks, they’ll replace the whole roof.”
→ Most warranties only cover repair of the affected section unless there’s total failure.
How to Protect Your Warranty
To keep your commercial roof warranty valid in New Jersey:
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Hire a licensed, certified contractor like Boundless Roofing & Chimney
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Schedule annual maintenance and inspections
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Avoid unauthorized modifications (e.g., new HVAC units without flashing)
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Keep detailed documentation of all roof work and inspections
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Address issues promptly—don’t delay necessary repairs
Boundless Roofing & Chimney offers maintenance contracts that help you stay in compliance and protect your warranty coverage.
What to Ask Before You Sign a Roofing Warranty
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Who is issuing the warranty—contractor or manufacturer?
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Is it prorated or non-prorated?
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What is the exact duration and coverage scope?
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Are inspections or maintenance required?
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What voids the warranty?
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Are accessories (flashings, sealants, penetrations) included?
We’ll walk you through these answers when you work with us, ensuring full transparency and no surprises.
Need Help Understanding Your Current Roof Warranty?
If you already have a commercial roof in place, we can review your warranty and evaluate whether it’s still valid—and whether repairs are covered. This service is especially useful for:
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Property purchases or sales
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Insurance claims
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Capital improvement planning
Get a Free Roofing Estimate or Warranty Consultation
Not sure what your current roof warranty covers—or what type you’ll get with a new roof? Let us guide you.
📱 Call Boundless Roofing & Chimney at 973-960-7921
📩 Or request a free roof estimate or consultation
We work with the top commercial roofing manufacturers to offer warranties backed by real performance and service.
Final Thoughts
Understanding your commercial roof warranty can save you from thousands of dollars in surprise costs—and ensure you’re never left guessing when something goes wrong. At Boundless Roofing & Chimney, we offer more than installation—we provide lasting protection, transparency, and trusted expertise.