When making home improvements, you want to ensure that the goods and services you spend money on will be worth it. This means your windows should have a reliable warranty, like those with high-profile contractors like GVD Renovations. This article will discuss what to look for in these warranties and what mistakes to avoid.
Understanding Your Window Warranty
While doing the necessary research and corresponding with potential suppliers, it is crucial to consider a company’s window warranty included in the contract. Make sure that the business you select has a solid track record of upholding warranties and offering top-notch customer support in the unlikely event that issues should occur later on.
Various warranties are available, and each company has its own set of conditions and rules. For homeowners, window warranties can be confusing, as they don’t always explicitly describe what’s included within them.
Sometimes, a warranty limits coverage for a particular feature of your replacement windows and not them as a whole. In other cases, no warranties are involved, which is even worse. But how can you, as a buyer, strike the best deal for yourself?
What Is Typically Warranted in Windows
Window warranties cover various aspects of new window replacement. These include materials, defects, hardware, glass options, installation, custom options, and glass breakage. They guarantee materials to last a specific time and cover damage within that time frame. If that happens, the contractors who installed them will fix or replace the windows.
But, not every warranty is made equally. To make sure you’re receiving the finest coverage for your new windows, it’s critical to consider and contrast the available choices carefully. In this case, your best shot is contracting an established renovation company with a track record of offering good client support.
Which Window Warranty Should You Choose?
The warranty you should pick ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.
What you’ll sometimes hear in window contracts is a lifetime warranty. This option refers to the expected lifetime of a window, determined by the manufacturer and the quality of materials used. As you’d expect, it doesn’t actually last a lifetime, but it’s your best shot at it.
Lower-quality windows experience faster wear and tear, with an expected lifetime of three to five years. On the other hand, high-quality windows have a longer lifespan with coverage of over ten years. This indicates that the warranty is not about the product itself but rather the components used in their construction.
Most companies offer a limited lifetime warranty, covering aesthetic and performance defects under normal working conditions. However, this warranty typically only covers parts and not labor or services. If that works for you, it’s a solid agreement.
In rare cases, replacement windows come with full lifetime guarantees that cover everything for entire lifetimes. One such case includes windows from GVD Renovations that come with a double-lifetime warranty. With this option, you can fully enjoy the comfort of your new windows without having to worry about setting money aside for future repairs and touch ups.
Bonus Window Warranty Facts
A window warranty is generally better than no warranty at all. But, new windows often come with exclusions and loopholes that may not cover certain items. For instance, a manufacturer may not cover windows if the home is within a five-mile radius of a body of water.
The warranty may not cover tempered glass, a risk that some repair companies consider too high. This window glass type can suddenly explode or break without warning, making checking the warranty for coverage options crucial.
Follow these guidelines to avoid the warranty being voided. It’s advisable to read the warranty terms thoroughly before purchasing to ensure complete protection.
Common Window Warranty Mistakes to Avoid
When people scour through their remodeling contracts, warranties are a section they feel they can skim through. However, doing this can result in an off-putting experience when you might need the contractor’s help fixing the windows. To avoid this, check out the following checklist of common window warranty mistakes to avoid.
Choosing the Cheapest Option
Choosing cheap windows may seem appealing, but it’s essential to consider the quality of materials used. Lower-quality windows may not last as long or perform well, and potential future repair or replacement costs could offset these savings.
Disregarding Energy Efficiency
In many homes, windows are a significant source of energy loss. You could be paying greater energy costs if you disregard the energy efficiency standards of your new windows, especially if you live in areas with temperature fluctuations.
Overlooking the Professional Installation
Even minor installation errors can result in huge problems like water damage and air leakage. The importance of professional installation cannot be overstated, especially with windows that require more precision and professional attention.
Disregarding Maintenance Obligations
Specific windows need more maintenance than others. For example, wood windows could require routine sealing and refinishing, while vinyl ones need less attention. Ignoring these requirements might cause the window to look worse and have a much shorter lifespan.
Conclusion
Windows are an essential investment for your home, and they can either make or break your remodeling efforts. Reading the warranty terms might help you find the right product that fits your needs, preferences, and budget. If that means paying more attention to the warranty or spending more on it, it’ll certainly pay off in the long run.
