What To Know About Window Warranties
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Window warranties vary significantly between manufacturers. Replacement windows should come with a warranty that ensures their quality and indicates their potential longevity. However, while a warranty provides some peace of mind, it isn’t a guarantee that your window will automatically be replaced under all circumstances.
Our guide will help you understand the types of coverage provided by window warranties, warranty lengths, how to file a warranty claim, and tips for choosing new windows with the strongest warranties.
What Does a Typical Window Warranty Cover?
Window warranties vary from one provider to the next in terms of the level of coverage they provide. However, homeowners should expect certain basic coverages under a standard window warranty.
Glass Coverage
Window warranties often have a specific section dedicated to glass coverage. Standard window warranties generally cover any factory defects, including damage that leads to cracks or chips in the glass and failure of any films or coatings on the glass. Seal failure is also likely addressed under glass coverage.
Accidental glass breakage is covered in some warranties. However, certain exclusions apply. Glass coverage typically won’t cover natural disasters, neglect, vandalism, or damage to your home’s structure.
Hardware and Components
A standard window warranty should cover all hardware and moving parts of a window. This includes locks, balance systems, and issues that interrupt normal operation. Frames and sashes are also typically protected. Depending on your windows’ materials, hardware and components may not have the same length of coverage as the glass. For example, wood windows may be covered for 10 years while the glass is covered for 20 years.
Accidental Glass Breakage
Some window warranties will cover accidental glass breakage up to a certain cost. However, this option may only be available at a higher cost. If you’re seeking accidental glass breakage coverage, ask multiple providers about the availability and cost.
Understanding Different Warranty Lengths
The length of time your replacement window warranty lasts will depend on the manufacturer and your window type. While there’s no standard length for window warranties, most fall into the following categories.
Lifetime Warranties
The term “lifetime” warranty means the expected lifetime of your windows. The length of a lifetime warranty can range from 5 to 20-plus years, so ask how long your warranty is valid. These warranties are often transferable if you sell your home. You may need to contact your window company to complete the transfer.
Prorated Warranties
Prorated warranties are designed to provide the highest levels of coverage when windows are new. These warranties cover a decreasing percentage of replacement parts over time. With a prorated warranty, you’ll be responsible for paying more out of pocket as your windows age.
For example, windows with a 20-year prorated warranty may provide full coverage for years 1–5 and require you to pay 25% of the costs for replacement parts during years 5–10. After 10 years, you can expect to pay at least half of the cost, with your responsibility continuing to grow as the windows age.
Extended Warranties
Extended warranties are optional add-on products used to extend the length of your warranty. The extended warranty might be upheld by a different company than the manufacturer and could have different coverage than your original warranty. Costs for extended warranties can vary and will depend on the level of coverage, warranty length, and provider.
Factors That Can Void a Window Warranty
Having a window warranty doesn’t guarantee you’ll have coverage in the event something happens to your windows. All warranties have exclusions, and how you treat your windows could void your window warranty. Here are common actions that result in a voided window warranty.
Improper Installation
We recommend having replacement windows installed professionally. Correct window installation is the best way to ensure your windows last as expected. Incorrect installation can lead to issues that cause your windows to break unexpectedly or frames to deteriorate faster. Ensure your contractor is licensed and has experience installing windows to stay in compliance with your warranty.
Neglect or Abuse
Follow recommended maintenance requirements and avoid abusing your windows to ensure your warranty remains valid. Vinyl windows usually require low maintenance. However, failing to routinely seal wood window frames or cleaning aluminum windows with abrasive cleaners is likely to cause damage that won’t be covered by your warranty.
Misuse, such as forcing windows to open or close when they don’t slide smoothly or jamming stubborn locks into place, can also void your warranty. If parts are malfunctioning, contact your manufacturer to troubleshoot the issue.
How To File a Window Warranty Claim
Filing a window warranty claim years after your purchase can be complex. While the exact process will depend on your manufacturer and specific warranty, you can expect to follow these steps.
Gather Required Information
Before contacting your window manufacturer, gather all the information you’ll need to file the claim. This may include several pieces of information and photos. When possible, collect the following:
- Description of the issue
- Name of the company that installed your windows
- Photos that show the entire window and a detailed image of the issue
- Product ID number (likely found on your window’s warranty sticker)
- Proof of purchase
Contact Manufacturer
Your window warranty is most often upheld by the manufacturer, not the dealer. Search for the manufacturer’s contact information on your window’s warranty sticker or in your owner’s manual.
Provide any required information as directed, and ask when you can expect a response. You can expect to wait anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to learn if your claim was approved.
Schedule Service
If your claim is approved, you’ll get a notification by phone or email. Replacement window warranties vary widely, so it’s important to ask several questions to understand how to proceed.
- Do I need to be present for inspections or repairs?
- If I need to hire a contractor for the repair, is it my responsibility to ship the damaged window back to the factory?
- Is the cost of labor covered in the repair?
- Will your company perform the repairs?
- Will you perform an inspection before scheduling the repair?
After you have the necessary information, schedule your repair or inspection appointment with the company. Follow their instructions precisely to avoid delays.
How To Choose the Best Window Warranty
Replacement windows are a substantial investment. When choosing the best windows for your home, compare warranties to ensure you get a warranty that will match your needs now and in the future.
Compare Warranty Terms
Warranties can be confusing. Compare the following terms to ensure you’re getting what you expect for the cost of your warranty.
- Exclusions: What isn’t covered by the warranty?
- Labor coverage: Is the cost of labor covered when a claim is approved?
- Length of coverage: How long is the warranty good for, and does the coverage diminish as time passes?
- Proration: What are my responsibilities over the length of the warranty if coverage diminishes over time?
- Transferability: Can the warranty be transferred to the next homeowner if I sell the home?
Creating a side-by-side comparison chart is the easiest way to evaluate the differences. Include information about each warranty you’re considering and all relevant terms.
Manufacturer’s Reputation
Comparing window manufacturers will allow you to learn more about the quality of the windows you intend to purchase and how each company honors its warranty. Check customer reviews and ratings related to warranty support before choosing the best manufacturer for window replacement.
Cost vs. Coverage
The upfront cost isn’t the only price consideration when purchasing a window warranty. Lower costs often mean lower levels of coverage, which could leave you paying more out of pocket in the long run. Compare the coverages that differently priced warranties offer for the cost and use those figures to make an informed decision.
Our Conclusion
A high-quality window warranty is a vital part of the value of your window replacement. Before choosing the best windows for your home, ensure you understand the details about the window warranty and how you can prevent voiding coverage. Create a side-by-side chart to accurately assess all the information included in each warranty, and ask questions to clarify any information you don’t understand. No matter what type of warranty you’re seeking, take the time to carefully review the warranty terms before purchasing replacement windows.
FAQ About Window Warranties
How long are windows typically under warranty?
There is no exact length of time windows are typically under warranty. Window warranties vary substantially in length. They may be valid for 5, 10, 15, or 20 years, and some companies offer a limited lifetime warranty.
What voids a window warranty?
There are a few things that can void your window warranty. Some common practices that can void window warranties include improper installation, installing extra hardware such as blinds or locks, and improper maintenance. Ask your provider about actions that could void your window warranty upon purchase.
Are window warranties transferable?
Not all window warranties are transferable, and certain conditions may be required to transfer a warranty. If you plan to sell your home, ask about transferable warranties and if special requirements apply.
How do I find my window warranty information?
You may be able to find your window warranty information on your window. Search for window warranty labels in discreet areas like inner corners underneath the top or bottom lip of the window sill. If you can’t find a label, consult your manual or contact the manufacturer.
Is labor covered under a window warranty?
Labor is covered under some window warranties. Ask your provider about warranty coverage for both labor and materials. If you purchase windows without a warranty on labor, ask about your installer’s insurance coverage to determine whether it covers defects due to improper installation.
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