Commercial Roofing: Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding the fine print of a warranty is essential for long-term financial planning. Because AB Construction & Roofing is licensed by the industry’s largest and most reputable manufacturers, we are authorized to offer "No Dollar Limit" (NDL) warranties.

Standard "material-only" warranties, often provided by uncertified contractors, only cover the cost of the roofing membrane if it is found to be defective. They do not cover the high cost of labor to fix the issue, nor do they cover leaks caused by installation errors. Our NDL warranties are different:

• Manufacturing Defects: Covers the replacement of faulty materials.
• Workmanship Coverage: Because the manufacturer has vetted our installation process, they back our labor. If a leak occurs due to an installation error, the repair is covered.
• No Dollar Limit: As the name suggests, there is no cap on the cost of the repair. Whether the fix costs $500 or $50,000, the manufacturer covers the full cost of labor and materials for the duration of the 10- to 30-year period.

This is perhaps the most critical question for any facility manager’s budget. At AB Construction & Roofing, we perform a multi-point assessment to provide an honest, data-driven recommendation.

We look for three main indicators:

1. Age of the System: If a roof is approaching the end of its 20- or 25-year life cycle, recurring repairs are often a "band-aid" on a failing system.
2. Moisture Infiltration: Using Infrared Thermal Imaging, we check for moisture trapped beneath the membrane. If the insulation is dry, a repair or a roof coating may be an option.
3. The 25% Rule: Generally, if more than 25% of the roof surface is damaged, saturated, or failing, a full replacement becomes more cost-effective than continuous, piecemeal repairs.

Our goal is to protect your investment. If we can safely extend the life of your roof through targeted repairs, we will tell you. If a replacement is the only way to protect your interior assets, we will provide a transparent quote for a new, warranted system.

In commercial and industrial settings, the stakes are significantly higher than in residential work. A single accident on a job site or a project left unfinished can result in catastrophic financial loss for a building owner.

• Bonded: Being bonded provides a financial guarantee that we will fulfill the terms of our contract. If a contractor disappears or fails to meet the project specifications, the bond acts as a safety net for the client.
• Fully Insured: This includes both General Liability and Workers' Compensation. If a worker is injured on your property or if your building is damaged during a storm while the roof is open, our insurance covers the costs—not yours.

Since 1995, we have maintained a flawless record of full coverage to protect our staff and our clients, including major partners like IBM and Raymond Corporation.

The "out of sight, out of mind" mentality is the leading cause of premature roof failure. We recommend professional inspections twice a year—typically in the spring (to assess damage from winter ice and snow) and in the fall (to ensure the drainage systems are clear and the seams are tight before the next winter).

Additionally, an inspection is vital after any major Central New York weather event, such as high-wind storms or extreme hail. Regular inspections are not just about finding leaks; they are often a legal requirement to keep your 10- to 30-year manufacturer warranty valid. Most manufacturers require proof of maintenance to honor a claim. Our maintenance programs ensure that your paperwork is in order and your roof is in peak condition.

Yes. This is a common concern for businesses adding new HVAC units or exhaust fans. Many contractors unknowingly void a roof's warranty by using incompatible materials or improper flashing techniques when creating new penetrations. Because we are licensed by the major manufacturers, we can perform curb and penetration installations while maintaining the integrity of your existing warranty. We coordinate with your mechanical contractors to ensure that every new unit is sealed to manufacturer specifications.