Getting new windows is always a big investment. You need to pick them carefully as they increase your home’s value, lower your bills, and boost curb appeal. And, like any major purchase, warranties matter.
What’s the difference between a window installation warranty and a window manufacturer’s warranty? In this guide, you’ll learn everything about window warranties, including what’s covered and what’s not.
Why Window Warranties Matter
A solid window warranty isn’t just paperwork. It’s protection for your investment.
Windows aren’t cheap. When you install them, you expect them to perform well for years. Ideally, they should hold up against the weather and operate smoothly without any adjustments.
However, when a window does break, even a minor issue can turn into a huge cost.
Warranties matter because they ensure you don’t have to pay for a defect that shouldn’t have happened in the first place. They give you peace of mind and set clear guidelines for who’s responsible for repairs.
In the next sections, we discuss the two types of window warranties.
What Is a Window Manufacturer’s Warranty?
A window manufacturer’s warranty is a guarantee from the company that produced the window. This warranty covers defects in the window itself.
If something goes wrong with the window, then the manufacturer will be responsible for the repair.
Different brands will have varying manufacturers’ warranties, so it’s best to compare them before you make a purchase.
What a Window Manufacturer’s Warranty Covers
Window manufacturers’ warranties differ by brand, although most cover the following.
- Defects in materials
- Defects in workmanship
- Fogging between panes due to seal failure
- Mechanical failure
- Warping or cracking
Limits of a Window Manufacturer’s Warranty
Window manufacturer warranties often include limitations on labor, duration, and specific components.
For instance, wood frame windows may have strict moisture-related restrictions because they are prone to rot or mold. Similarly, coverage can vary by part: the window glass might be warranted for up to 20 years, while locks and handles may only be covered for 5 years.
Our best advice is to always read the fine print on the warranty.
What a Manufacturer Warranty Doesn’t Cover
Most window manufacturer warranties don’t cover the following.
- Labor, installation errors, and unprofessional installations
- Accidental glass breakage
- Window screens
- Environmental damage, such as floor, fire, and extreme weather
- Improper maintenance, such as using the wrong cleaning products on the windows
- Normal wear and tear
Manufacturer Warranty Coverage Periods
Always check the coverage period before buying a window. This is how long a warranty is valid for.
Be sure to read the fine print. If a manufacturer says it has a lifetime window warranty, it may refer to the window’s expected lifetime, not the purchaser’s lifetime.
A typical coverage period for a manufacturer’s warranty is around 20 to 25 years. The duration can change depending on specific components.
What Is a Window Installation Warranty?
The second type of warranty is the window installation warranty.
Window installation warranties cover the workmanship, not the quality of the window itself. This type of warranty is provided by the contractor who installed the windows.
Even if you buy the best quality windows, it’ll be meaningless if they aren’t installed correctly. Installation warranties are necessary for this reason.
Poorly installed windows can have air leaks, water issues, and operational problems. Window installation warranties make installers accountable, saving you from faulty work.
What a Window Installation Warranty Covers
Window installation warranties typically include the following.
- Air or water leaks due to improper sealing
- Incorrect fittings and alignment issues
- Exterior trim installation problems
Installation Warranty Duration
The duration can vary depending on the contractor with most offering between one and several years of coverage. A warranty gives homeowners peace of mind knowing that the installer stands behind their work.
At Koby Co. Door & Window, we offer a 1-year warranty, which reflects our commitment to high-quality workmanship and allows us to provide prompt, reliable service for any installation issues. Combined with proper installation and manufacturer warranties on the windows themselves, your investment is well protected.
Installation Warranty Exclusions
Window installation warranties may not include the following.
- Damage caused by extreme weather
- Homeowner modifications
- Damage caused by the structure around the window
Window Installation vs Manufacturer Warranty: Key Differences
When a window has a problem, homeowners often become confused about who to call. Therefore, it’s important to understand the differences between these warranties.
- Coverage: Manufacturer’s warranties cover the product itself. On the other hand, installation warranties cover the work done to install the window.
- Duration: Manufacturer’s warranties are usually longer than window installation warranties.
- Limitations: Manufacturer warranties rarely include labor costs to install the window. Meanwhile, installation warranties only cover issues caused by the installer.
Do Installation and Manufacturer Warranties Overlap?
Installation and manufacturer warranties rarely overlap. That’s why having both is vital.
Installation and manufacturer warranties work together to give you combined protection. However, they can also affect each other’s coverage.
For instance, the manufacturer may not honor the warranty if their installation guidelines weren’t followed. Similarly, an installer can refuse work if the window is delivered with a defect.
What Can Void a Window Manufacturer’s Warranty?
A window manufacturer’s warranty can give you peace of mind. Still, they may be voided in some cases.
- Improper Installation: Improper installation happens when the installer doesn’t follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. That’s why it’s essential to choose an installer who’s familiar with the manufacturer’s requirements.
- Failure to Activate Warranty: Some manufacturers require you to activate your warranty within a set amount of time. If you fail to activate the warranty, they won’t honor your claim.
- Homeowner Modifications: Never try to fix a window issue by yourself. Doing so can void the warranty and cause further damage.
- Failure to Maintain the Window: Most windows need basic maintenance and cleaning. Certain warranties specify whether you need to replace weatherstripping at regular intervals.
- Extreme Weather: Hail, hurricanes, and floods aren’t usually covered by the warranty. If your area is prone to extreme weather, you should get windows with suitable ratings.
- Transfers: Some window warranties aren’t transferable. This means that if the owner of the house changes, the manufacturer can void the warranty.
- Accidents and Misuse: Slamming the windows with force or not using the window as intended can void the warranty. Manufacturer warranties cover defects, not misuse of the window.
Why Professional Installation Protects Your Warranty
Despite differences in warranties, manufacturers are all clear about one thing. You must use a reputable professional installer.
Professional installers are important because they possess the expertise to install your windows. They follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, thereby protecting your warranty.
If you’re looking for a professional installer you can trust, you can reach out to KobyCO Door & Window. Our expert installation team is here to help make your dream home come to life!
FAQs
Does window installation affect the manufacturer’s warranty?
Yes. Faulty installations can void the manufacturer’s warranty, resulting in unnecessary costs. That’s why it’s so important to find a professional installer you can trust.
A professional installer ensures all guidelines are followed, thereby protecting your warranty.
Are window warranties transferable to a new homeowner?
It depends. Some window warranties can be voided if the house has a new owner. Others may be transferable. You can check the warranty guidelines to see if you’re protected.
Are labor costs covered under window warranties?
In general, manufacturer warranties don’t cover labor costs. On the other hand, window installation warranties may incur labor costs if the damage is due to poor installation.
We recommend having both types of warranties for full coverage.