This is our guide to window warranties – what to look for in a terms of provisions and exclusions, as well as pro-rated costs, etc. The bottom line for me is to find a really good window and really good installer so that you never have to worry about the warranty.
The first thing to understand is that warranties are typically broken up into two parts – the manufacturing and the labor. The manufacturing part applies to any manufacturing defects in the window itself. The labor portion is the cost of labor to repair or replace the window. Now, some companies manufacture and install the windows so they would cover or offer both parts. Typically, this is not the case. Scroll down to dig into the specifics on this pretty confusing subject.
If you have any questions about your replacement windows project, send us an email and ask away!
Vinyl Window Warranty
Most vinyl window warranties are limited lifetime for the original purchaser or owner. What does that mean – the company guarantees that there will be no manufacturing defects to the window itself. This should (but not always) includes the following: the frame, sash, insulated glass units, hardware, and components.
nless you really know a lot about a product or service, it’s hard to determine exactly when you are getting a fair price. There are such a wide variety of window frames and features on the market that you need to do your research first so you can see what the ballpark is and set a budget. You should know what’s available, what the average prices are, and what features may or may not be beneficial for your home and climate.
The Right Features
The type of window and the energy-saving features you choose will have a dramatic impact on the price. Energy-saving and easy-cleaning features will drive up the price. In order to get the best deal in terms of both performance and price, you need to know which of these features is right for you.
However, this still doesn’t make you a window expert. In order to double check that a deal or low price doesn’t mean that corners have been cut at the cost of quality find out more about the company. Does the company have repeat business with customers buying from them time after time? Contact one or two of those customers for referrals. Finally, get the price clearly spelled out in writing.
Sample Window Warranty Information
The following is basic information on popular companies. ALWAYS read the entire warranty for specifics, exclusions, policies and procedures (because the details are in the fine print — no where is that more true than in product warranties).
Amerimax Windows
Amerimax allows one transfer of ownership from the original purchaser to another buyer of the home. Consumers have to sign the window warranty card and mail it in within 30 days of installation for it to be valid. As always, there are lots of exclusions to what is covered and consumers should read it in its entirety in order to thoroughly understand what the company is actually covering.
Materials: Limited lifetime on manufacturing defects.
Parts: Limited lifetime on parts such as balances, keepers, locks and screws.
Glass: Limited lifetime on what they consider failed glass.
Desert King
Desert King is an installer, so they would cover the labor portion of the warranty. The actual manufacturer would cover the window (or door) warranty. In case of poor installation, Desert King covers the cost of repairing or replacing any windows or doors. In the case of manufacturing defects, D-K charges for their labor to replace or repair any windows or doors.
Warranty Transfer: Homeowners may transfer the warranty for up to 10 years from the installation date. The new owner will then be covered under the warranty for 20 years from the original installation date. Homeowners must notified D-K of the title transfer within 30 days.
Gerkin Windows
Gerkin offers a limited warranty for vinyl windows and doors on their Comfort Series. It is void if improperly installed. Defective Materials & Workmanship (residental): Limited lifetime to orginial owner.
Defective Materials & Workmanship (commercial): 10 years on frame and components.
Seals On Insulated Glass: 10 years.
Hardware & Weatherstripping: 5 years
Glass Breakage: No coverage.
Torn Screens: No coverage
Joyce Windows
Joyce offers two options of their limited lifetime warranty on both the Insulator and Heritage window lines. The standard option is the Silver Warranty, which covers manufacturer’s defects for the original buyer’s lifetime. It does not, however, transfer to a new homeowner. The Gold option is an optional upgrade which covers manufacturer’s defects for the original buyer and is transferable to new homeowners. It also includes coverage for glass breakage for the original owners and a limited 15 year glass coverage for a second homeowner.
Kohler Windows
They offer two options, terms below. As always, exclusions and limitations apply. $75 service fee for claims that end up not being Kohler windows.
Frame / Sash: 20 year or lifetime warranty.
Glass: 10 year or lifetime warranty
Hardware & Components: 5 year or lifetime warranty.
Wood & Permafinish: 5 year
Marvin Window Warranty
Marvin windows and door are backed by 20 year window warranties on the insulated glass, and other aggressive terms on the rest of their window and door features. Marvin offers such warranties because it is confident in the quality of the materials and workmanship employed in the manufacturing of their new windows, replacement windows and doors.
Renewal By Andersen
RBA offers a limited warranty that is transferable and covers the following:
Glass: 20 year limited.
Installation: 2 year limited.
Frame/Sash And Components: 10 year limited.
Silver Line
A limited lifetime warranty that covers the window, the glass and the hardware. It does not cover damage from improper installation. Because Silver Line is owned by Andersen, they probably offer professional installation, which typically includes its own terms.
Sunrise Windows
Sunrise offers a non-prorated lifetime transferable warranty that can be transferred to a new home for $50. Exclusions apply.
Frame and Sashes — Non-Prorated Lifetime & Transferable
Hardware and Parts — Non-Prorated Lifetime & Transferable
Insulated Glass — Non-Prorated Lifetime & Transferable
Screens — Non-Prorated Lifetime & Transferable
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