Warranties

Siding warranty

30 year labor & material warranty

If you want your new siding to last 30 years and remain covered under the manufacturer’s warranty, proper maintenance is crucial. Even “low-maintenance” materials like vinyl or fiber-cement need care. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Clean Your Siding Annually

• Dirt, pollen, and algae can accumulate and degrade the finish.
• How to clean:
  • Use a garden hose or low-pressure washer.
  • Mix mild soap with water (or a water-vinegar solution)
  • Scrub gently with a soft brush.
• Tip: Rinse top to bottom to avoid streaks.
• Avoid high-pressure washers directly on seams—they can force water behind the siding.

2. Inspect and Repair Damage Early

• Walk around your home once or twice a year to check for:
  • Cracks, dents, or warped panels.
  • Loose or missing trim
  • Open seams or gaps
• Small issues fixed immediately prevent water infiltration that can void warranties.

3. Check Caulking and Flashing

• Inspect windows, doors, vents, and corners for cracked caulking.
• Replace or repair caulking as needed.
• Make sure flashing and trim are secure—these keep water from getting behind siding

4. Prevent Heat and Fire Damage

• Keep BBQs, fire pits, and grills at least 10–12 inches away from siding.
• Avoid reflected heat from large windows or mirrors that can warp vinyl siding.

5. Control Mold and Mildew

• Shady areas or overgrown vegetation can create moisture buildup.
• If you see mold:
  • Mix 1 quart bleach + 1 gallon water + ¼ cup detergent
  • Apply with a soft brush
  • Rinse thoroughly

6. Trim Trees and Bushes

• Avoid branches rubbing against siding—they can scratch or crack panels.
• Maintain 12–18 inches of clearance between plants and siding.

7. Don’t Paint Unless Approved

• Many vinyl and composite siding warranties are voided if you paint the panels with non-approved paint.
• Only use vinyl-safe or manufacturer-approved paints if coloring is needed

8. Maintain Gutters and Downspouts

• Ensure gutters are clear to prevent water overflow onto siding.
• Standing water can accelerate siding wear and void warranties

Maintenance Schedule for 30-Year Warranty

Task	Frequency
Wash siding	Once a year/homeowner/purchased
Inspect for damage	Once a year/contractor
Check caulking & flashing	Once a year/contractor
Trim vegetation	Yearly/homeowner/purchased
Mold/mildew cleaning	As needed/homeowner/purchased

Key takeaway: A warranty usually covers material defects, but neglecting maintenance, improper cleaning, or water damage can void it. A yearly inspection and cleaning, combined with prompt repairs, is what most manufacturers expect for a 30-60 year coverage.

Metal roofing warranty

Maintaining a metal roof properly is important because most manufacturers only honor their warranty if you follow certain maintenance practices. While each brand has its own warranty terms, the maintenance requirements are usually very similar

1. Annual Roof Inspection

Inspect the roof at least once per year and after major storms. Check for:

• Loose or backed-out screws
• Damaged panels
• Scratches in the paint or coating
• Sealant deterioration around penetrations (vents, pipes, skylights, chimneys)

2. Clean the Roof

Most manufacturers require periodic cleaning to prevent coating damage.
Recommended cleaning as needed

• Rinse with a garden hose
• Use mild soap and water
• Soft brush if needed

Remove:

• Dirt
• Leaves
• Tree sap
• Debris trapped in seams

Avoid:

• Pressure washers close to seams
• Harsh chemicals
• Abrasive scrubbing

3. Keep Gutters and Valleys Clear

Blocked gutters can cause water backup which may lead to corrosion or leaks. Clean:

• Gutters
• Downspouts
• Roof valleys

At least once a year.

4. Check Fasteners and Sealants

For exposed fastener metal roofs:

• Tighten or replace loose screws
• Replace screws with worn rubber washers

For standing seam roofs:

• Check clips and seams
• Inspect sealants at penetrations

5. Touch Up Scratches or Rust

If the coating gets scratched:

• Clean the area
• Apply manufacturer-approved touch-up paint

This prevents rust and keeps the finish warranty valid.

6. Prevent Foot Traffic Damage

Limit walking on the roof. If work must be done:

• Walk on panel flats near supports
• Wear soft-soled shoes

7. Recoat or Reseal When Needed

Some metal roof systems allow maintenance coatings (clear or elastomeric) every 10–15 years to extend life. Always verify that coatings are approved by the manufacturer so the warranty stays valid.

8. Avoid Unauthorized Modifications

Adding items like:

• Satellite dishes
• Solar panels
• HVAC mounts

can void a warranty if they penetrate panels improperly. Always use manufacturer-approved mounting systems.

Maintenance Schedule for 40-Year Warranty

Task	Frequency
Wash siding	Once a year/homeowner/purchased
Inspect for damage	Once a year/contractor
Check caulking & flashing	Once a year/contractor
Trim vegetation	Yearly/homeowner/purchased
Mold/mildew cleaning	As needed/homeowner/purchased

Typical metal roof warranties:

• Barn style: 40–50 years
• Standing seam style: 50–60 years

With good maintenance, metal roofs often last 50–70+ years