A waterproofing warranty is a legally binding agreement which a company guarantees that some or all...
Peace of mind starts with the right protection, and the right partner.
When it comes to waterproofing systems, a warranty is more than paperwork, it's a manufacturer’s formal promise that the product will perform as intended. It assures the building owner that the materials are free from defects and provides a path forward if issues arise. Most warranties are signed by both the building owner and a representative of the product manufacturer and are designed to build confidence in long-term performance and durability.
Types of warranty
Waterproofing systems come with a range of warranties, each designed to address specific risks and coverage needs. Whether you're protecting a residential or commercial structure, understanding these warranty types will help you choose the right one for your project.
1- Materials-Only Warranty
The most common warranty in the waterproofing and roofing industries is the Materials-Only Warranty. Typically valid for 5 to 30 years, this limited warranty covers only the cost of materials used in the installation, if those materials are proven to be defective. For example, if a membrane or coating fails during the warranty period, the manufacturer will replace or repair the faulty product. These warranties are often included at no extra cost.
2- Labor and Materials Warranty
A Labor and Materials Warranty offers broader protection than a Materials-Only Warranty, which covers only the materials used in a waterproofing system. This more comprehensive warranty includes both the materials and the labor required for installation, providing greater peace of mind for property owners.
Typically, waterproofing systems are installed by contractors using coatings or membranes supplied by manufacturers. Depending on the size and complexity of the project, installation may take several days—heightening the risk of water intrusion if not properly executed. It’s important for contractors to provide an estimated completion timeline to help mitigate this risk.
If the waterproof membrane is installed incorrectly and a failure occurs during the warranty period, a Labor and Materials Warranty enables the owner to recover costs for both the materials and the labor involved in correcting the issue. In most cases, the manufacturer covers the cost of replacement materials, while the contractor is responsible for labor-related repairs.
3 - NDL Warranty ("No dollar Limit")
Many limited waterproofing warranties include a maximum payout cap. If the cost to repair or replace a defective system exceeds this cap, the owner is responsible for the difference. For example, a limited warranty might cover up to $5,000 in repairs, but if the actual cost is $7,500, the client would need to pay the remaining $2,500 out of pocket.
To avoid these unexpected expenses, many property owners opt for a No Dollar Limit (NDL) Warranty. This type of warranty provides full coverage for the repair or replacement of a faulty waterproofing system, regardless of the total cost. Whether the fix costs $500 or $50,000, an NDL warranty ensures the manufacturer or provider covers the entire amount.
It’s important to note that NDL warranties typically come at a premium. The longer the coverage period and the higher the potential risk, the more the warranty is likely to cost. Over time, providers may increase the price of NDL warranties to account for the increased likelihood of system failure.
Pre-Qualifications for Obtaining a Warranty (factory trained applicators and 3rd party inspections)
To be eligible for most waterproofing warranties, excluding limited Materials-Only warranties, many manufacturers require that the installation be performed by a contractor who has completed official factory training for the specific system or product. Using a certified applicator provides several important benefits:
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Ensures adherence to the manufacturer’s recommended methods for surface preparation and installation
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Reduces the likelihood of issues caused by improper application
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Promotes efficient, timely project execution, helping to meet construction schedules
In addition to certified installation, many manufacturers also mandate third-party inspections, an expense typically passed on to the project owner. Despite the added cost, third-party oversight adds value through:
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Pre-construction meetings that align project expectations among all stakeholders
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Design reviews to ensure compatibility and compliance
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On-site “mock-up” inspections and adhesion testing before work begins
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Ongoing observations and detailed reporting during key phases like surface prep, priming, detail work, and topcoat applications
- GET THE COATINGS CHECKLISTS to properly document your job for warranty coverage.
Together, these pre-qualifications ensure a higher-quality installation and greater warranty protection for the owner. If you are interested in CIM Training courses, contact us for upcoming training dates and locations.
Weighing the Cost vs. Value of a Waterproofing Warranty
Beyond basic Materials-Only warranties, most comprehensive waterproofing warranties come at an added cost. Depending on the type and extent of coverage, pricing can range from $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot. Because of this, it’s important for owners to consider the size and scope of their project when deciding whether an extended warranty is a worthwhile investment.
While longer warranty terms may seem more valuable, they don’t always guarantee better performance. A five-year warranty from a trusted manufacturer and contractor may offer better protection than a longer one backed by lower-quality products or less reliable service. Unfortunately, not all providers respond promptly to claims or deliver quality materials, so it’s essential to choose proven partners with solid reputations.
It's also important to understand the limits of coverage. Most waterproofing warranties, whether Materials-Only, Labor and Materials, or otherwise, typically cover only the cost of repairing or replacing the waterproofing system itself. They usually exclude secondary or incidental damages caused by water intrusion.
Final Thoughts on Waterproofing Warranties
Even if never used, a warranty offers peace of mind and reflects a manufacturer's confidence in their product. As an owner, understanding your warranty options, and selecting one that aligns with your project’s needs—can help ensure lasting performance and protection.
If you have questions or would like help determining which warranty best fits your application, feel free to
