Window Warranty Checklist: Understanding Lifetime Warranty Windows
Feb 09, 2023Replacement windows with lifetime warranty coverage differ by company. Use this checklist to compare your window warranty options.
The key to making a big investment in your home is finding the sweet spot between quality materials, excellent workmanship, and long-term value. When it comes to window replacement, the right window warranty will back up not only the products, but the installation too.
To help with your replacement window research, the Improveit team has put together the checklist below so you can easily compare your window warranty options. For every company you’re considering, ask the following six questions to fully understand the value of the window warranty covering your investment.
1. how long are window warranties? Lifetime vs. Limited Lifetime windows
Take a close look at the coverage periods between limited lifetime warranty windows and windows with lifetime warranty. The period of time that your windows are covered could be drastically different depending on how manufacturers define “lifetime.”
Limited lifetime warranty windows are a common, baseline offering. These warranties usually cover specific parts of the window and/or damage and malfunctions caused by manufacturing defects. They generally don’t cover installation issues or post-installation damage like broken glass. Each component may have a different coverage period, such as 1 year for parts, and 3 years for screens.
Lifetime warranty windows generally offer additional coverage based on the normal wear-and-tear of the window, but be sure to understand what the term “lifetime” means. This will vary by manufacturer. Some may define “lifetime” as a period of 5 to 20 years, while others, including Improveit, offer lifetime warranty on your windows for as long as your home is standing.
2. Is My Window warranty transferable to another owner?
Look for information in your warranty that explains if and how you can transfer your warranty to another homeowner. Not all warranties are transferable. Those that are add value to your home when you sell it, but usually require certain steps in order to transfer the warranty successfully. The company you work with can fully explain those steps, which usually includes an inspection of the windows before you sell your home.
3. What Parts & Services are Covered by my window warranty?
Windows are made up of four main components, but there are many other parts that go into their construction. Make sure your window warranty includes coverage for:
- Balances, clips, and locks
- Vinyl frames and sashes
- Window screens
- Seal failure that causes fogging or condensation between the glass panes
- Broken glass, including accidental glass breakage
- Labor and installation
Unsure about the difference between some of these window parts? Check out our Anatomy of a Window page.
4. What is Not Covered, and What Will Void My Window Warranty?
Every warranty will also include clauses identifying what’s not covered by the manufacturer, and any actions or circumstances that will void the warranty, resulting in declined claims. Items that are not covered typically include events outside the manufacturer’s control, such as:
- House settling
- Structure/foundation failure
- Fire and flooding
- Natural disasters and severe weather
- Corrosive or chemical damage
- Neglect, vandalism, or damage from using the materials outside their normal functionality
Acts that will void the warranty may include:
- Painting windows or otherwise tampering with them
- Adding unapproved aftermarket features
- Removing and replacing the windows
- Attempting to perform window repairs yourself, or repairs performed by a third party
- Neglecting normal maintenance
5. How Do I Make a Window Warranty Claim?
If a hardcopy of your warranty is not provided upon installation, reach out to your window company and request that a copy be sent to you. Some companies may require you to register your warranty by filling out and returning a form with your contact information. This form will be kept with your customer record for the duration of the warranty.
When it’s time to make a warranty claim, reach out directly to the service department of the company that provides the warranty, or to a separate warranty department if they have one. Contact information should be provided on the warranty document itself, or you may find it on the company’s website.
Let the service team know the issue you’re experiencing so they can begin their process of assessing your coverage and scheduling a repair.
6. What’s the Value of Lifetime Warranty Window Coverage?
Improveit’s lifetime warranty window coverage is a great example of a warranty that adds value to your home improvement investment. With a full, transferable lifetime warranty, you get:
- Coverage for both labor and materials, including uncommon coverages like broken glass and broken seals.
- Peace of mind knowing that the most common window repair issues will be covered for as long as your home is standing, with no out-of-pocket costs.
- Protection from the rising cost of window repairs and replacement.
- Relief from the hassle of trying to find a qualified window repair company, and never having to replace your windows again.
- An added bonus to pass along the warranty to future buyers if you sell your home.
Working with a Trusted Partner
Learning about your window warranty is an important step of determining the best window company to work with. Improveit is proud to be a trusted advisor in your home improvement journey, ready to answer any questions you may have. As you research your window replacement options, use our warranty checklist above, and this list of 8 Top Questions to Ask Window Installers to help you find the best company for your project.
Ready to learn more about Improveit’s window replacement offerings? Give us a call at 855-637-2999 to set up a convenient appointment. Our team is ready, willing, and able to answer all your questions!
