For homeowners, window warranties can be extremely confusing! If you’re in the process of installing windows in your new home or are planning to replace existing windows, you should know the truth behind warranties that come with your windows.
Let’s get down to facts – window warranties aren’t equal. They vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and can come with a variety of loopholes. Apart from that, most companies use terminologies that are arbitrary and can leave you frustrated with the entire process. To cut through the issues, we’ve created a list of essential factors that can help you make the right choice when buying windows that come with a lifetime warranty.
The Truth About Lifetime Warranty
One of the biggest problems that homeowners face is understanding what it means to get a lifetime warranty. Most people believe that life means their life – that’s a myth! The truth is that windows with a lifetime warranty entail the lifetime of the window – not that of your home or you. Lifetime warranty should cover components like insulated glass, sash, frames, hardware, and glass breakage. You should look for options that ensure your windows do last a lifetime.
Lifetime Warranty – Coverage
Although coverage varies, there are a few things that should be covered to ensure you get a good deal. For starters, you should always buy windows that clearly state the number of years for which the windows are covered. Apart from that, the following should also be taken note of:
- Material: Owing to the different costs of vinyl and wood, coverage years could be different. Most materials generally carry a guarantee of 10 years. During this period, the window should not show signs of wear and tear, if it does, you should have the option to ask for a replacement
- Colour Defects: If in case your windows don’t match or have an inconsistent color scheme, you are entitled to an alternative. Since vinyl windows can’t be repainted, you must get the right color for the first time
- Broken Hardware: Lifetime warranty should ideally cover hardware defects if they are visible during the warrantied timeframe. If not, you are going in for a bad deal that can cause you frustrations later on
- Glass: When buying windows, you should opt for glass with inert gases that tend to last numerous years. The glass should also be covered under lifetime warranty as krypton, and other such gases can get depleted, turning your windows ineffective
- Glass Breakage: Your warranty must cover any glass breakage that occurs with the warranty period. If not, it could cost you a lot. Since glass can break for a variety of reasons, you should definitely see if breakage is covered or not, as well as the terms that define breakage
- Custom Coverage: If opting for a custom design for your windows, ensure all changes are included. If not, you may have to continue paying for damages until your windows last
- Installation: Improper installation of windows can wreak havoc on your home. Unless installation is covered in windows with a lifetime warranty, do not opt for it. The coverage should ideally include all installation charges, up until the window guarantee period
- Transferable: Warranty should come with a clause that allows for transfers, so those prospective buyers of your home are also covered. Opting for a transferable warranty also increases the resale value of your home.
Exclusions and Loopholes
Once you have checked for inclusions, you should look at loopholes and exclusions. For instance, some companies mention that your windows are not covered if the home is located near a water body. Do ensure you check all paperwork before making a decision. Apart from this, warranties can exclude labor charges. This means that you will have to pay extra money to get windows installed, every single time that you want anything replaced.
Conclusion
Since warranties vary with every manufacturer, you must look out for elements included, like color, glass, frame, transfers, etc. Other things to be wary of are exclusions and loopholes. Ensure you read the fine print before you make a decision.
One great way to find reliable manufacturers is to base your decision on customer reviews present on the company’s website as well as third-party websites. Referring to the information can allow you to make the right choice. Before signing a deal, you would know whether or not the company creates windows that lifetime. You will also see if they offer optimum customer service or take homeowners for granted.
