Window Warranties: What You Need to Know

Most people are skeptical of warranties in general, as many are difficult if not possible to get the manufacturer to uphold. So, why should window warranties be any different? Thankfully they are! Depending on the manufacturer, some may be more difficult than others, some might require proof or documentation of purchase, but overall window warranties aren’t hard to cash in on. The best part is, they are generally included with the purchase of a new window, with no additional charge. 

Each window manufacturer is going to have different terms and policies specific to their warranty, With them all being different, how do you what warranties are good and which ones are lacking? Doing some research before you invest in new windows can save you when you need a home glass repair in the future. There are a few things that should be included in a window warranty, and a few red flags that you should be wary of. 

What Should be Included in a Window Warranty 

There are a few elements that should be included in a window warranty to ensure you are covered and protected, should you ever need to use your warranty. Without one or more of these elements, you might find yourself having to pay out of pocket to get your home glass repair completed. 

• • Frame Coverage: frame coverage will cover any damage to the window frame, including warping, breaking, cracks, and any other damage that compromises the frame from working how it was intended. 
  • Glass Coverage: Despite what you might think, glass coverage doesn’t typically cover breakage. But, it does cover any defects or flaws with the glass itself. What it does cover is if the unit fails, the seal breaks or the Low-E coating fails. Anything that compromises the glass from providing the energy efficient benefits that the window has promised to provide. 

• Hardware: Anything that helps a window to open or close smoothly, including locks, balance springs, rollers, etc. should be covered under warranty. This also includes double-hung windows that are designed to tilt in or out, which should be covered under warranty. 
• Labor & Installation: If the cost of labor and installation is not included in your manufacturer's window warranty, you may have to pay any labor and installation cost associated with your window warranty work. Don’t assume that just because the parts and materials are covered that the labor and insulation will also be covered under warranty. 

What Does Lifetime Warranty Actually Mean? 

Most window manufacturers boast that they offer a “lifetime warrant”, but what exactly does that mean? As the name implies, it is a warranty that covers a “lifetime”, but for each manufacturer, the definition of “lifetime” is going to be different. For some brands of windows, the term “lifetime” refers to the lifetime of the windows, whereas, others might define it as the “lifetime of you in your home” meaning that the warranty doesn’t transfer if you sell your home. Find out how your window manufacturer defines “lifetime”, so you know how long your warranty is good for. 

Red Flags to Avoid

When investing in new windows for your home, you have the right to ask questions, to know exactly what you are getting and how you will be protected in the future, should you need home glass repair done. When doing your research into various different window manufacturers, here are a few red flags you should be aware of when looking at and comparing different window manufacturer warranties. 

• Don’t Know the Information 

There is a difference between not knowing something, and hiding information. If you are asking questions and they don’t know the answers or are unwilling to find out the answers for you, it is a big red flag. Reputable companies will provide answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding warranties before customers ask, or at least have the information readily available in a brochure or pamphlet. 

• Dodge Your Questions

When asking questions, it is admirable if they admit they don’t know the answer but promise to find out for you. It is completely unprofessional and concerning if they ignore your questions and try to distract you with other information. You are asking questions for a reason and they should be answered, if a company is unwilling to provide you with the information you need and want to know, keep shopping around. 

• Pushy to Purchase 

Hiring a company to replace the windows in your home is a huge deal, you are inviting strangers into your home, and are spending good money on a large investment to improve your home. As such, you want to trust those you hire and feel comfortable having them in and around your home. If the salesman is pushy and trying to get you to commit to purchasing new windows and sign a purchase agreement, don’t give in to their pressure. Do not feel pressured to sign anything or purchase new windows unless you feel confident in the deal and services being offered. They may be promising you the moon, and it sounds good to hear, but it could end up costing you more money in the long run. 

As you can see, window warranties aren’t always as cut and dry as they may seem. But with Gordon’s Glass you will know exactly what you are getting with your window warranties, without feeling pressured to purchase windows you aren’t in love with. Additionally, if you ever need to use you window warranty, Gordon’s Glass does everything they can to help you navigate the process, by providing you with valuable information regarding your window warranty at the time of purchase, and how to file for a warranty claim. If you have any questions regarding your windows warranty in regards to your home glass repair, give Gordon’s Glass a call today!