Papers
Three kinds of papers, kept apart
A metal roof carries a maker's warranty and a roofer's. They cover different things, so read both before you sign.
The panel maker's material warranty
Covers defects in the steel and its coating. The maker sets the years and the exclusions, and they differ by panel and finish.
The paint finish warranty
Covers the paint system against peeling and fading beyond set limits. It usually asks that the panels be installed to the maker's instructions, which is why the spec sheet names the maker.
Our workmanship terms
Covers how we installed the roof: seams, flashing and fasteners. The years and the exclusions are written in your contract, and we explain them before you sign.
Reading the papers
What to ask before you sign
Whose life, and how long
A warranty that says "lifetime" should say whose, and for what. Ask for the years in writing.
What it leaves out
Most warranties exclude hail, impact, storms and damage from foot traffic. Ask which ones.
Who registers it
We register the maker's finish warranty where the maker offers one, and hand you the paperwork.
Whether it passes to a buyer
Many warranties transfer once. Ask, if you may sell.
Credentials
Records you can check
The license number is in the footer of every page. Look it up on the board's site before you hire anyone.
Licenses
General contractor · NC Lic. 000000 · North Carolina Licensing Board for General ContractorsVerify
North Carolina law requires it for jobs of $40,000 or more. Look the number up before you hire.
Insurance
General liability insurance
A certificate of insurance on request, before work starts.
Questions about the papers?
Ask for a sample contract before the visit. We'll send it.