Warranty Comparison: What Every Homeowner Should Know
2024-02-15 9 min read
# Warranty Comparison: What Every Homeowner Should Know
When investing in a new garage door or repair service, understanding your warranty coverage is crucial. A garage door is a significant investment, often costing several thousand dollars for a quality door with professional installation. The right warranty can protect this investment for years to come, while a poor warranty might leave you paying for repairs out of pocket. Let's break down what you need to know about garage door warranties.
Types of Garage Door Warranties
There are several types of warranties you'll encounter when purchasing a garage door or related services:
Manufacturer's Warranty
This warranty comes directly from the company that made your garage door. It typically covers:
Door Panels: Most manufacturers offer warranties ranging from 1 year to lifetime coverage on door sections. Pay attention to what's actually covered, some warranties only cover defects in materials and workmanship, not normal wear and tear.
Hardware: Springs, hinges, rollers, and other hardware often have separate warranty terms, usually shorter than panel warranties.
Finish: Paint and coating warranties protect against fading, chalking, and peeling. These typically range from 3 to 10 years.
Installer's Warranty
Reputable installation companies provide their own warranty on workmanship. At Sunnyside Garage Doors, we offer a 10-Year Warranty on All Work. This covers: - Installation quality, Adjustment issues, Problems caused by improper installation, Return service visits
Parts Warranty
When repairs are needed, the replacement parts often carry their own warranty. Quality repair companies use parts with strong warranties and pass that coverage on to customers.
What to Look for in a Warranty
Not all warranties are created equal. Here's what separates good warranties from great ones:
Coverage Duration
Longer isn't always better if the coverage is limited. A 10-year comprehensive warranty is often more valuable than a lifetime warranty with numerous exclusions.
Transferability
If you sell your home, can the warranty transfer to the new owner? Transferable warranties add value to your home and are a sign of manufacturer confidence.
Proration vs. Non-Proration
Prorated warranties decrease in value over time. For example, a prorated 10-year warranty might only cover 50% of costs after 5 years.
Non-prorated warranties provide full coverage for the entire warranty period. These offer better protection but are typically shorter in duration.
What's Covered vs. Excluded
Read the fine print carefully. Common exclusions include: - Damage from misuse or accidents, Improper installation (why choosing a qualified installer matters) - Normal wear and tear, Commercial use in residential doors, Modifications to the original product, Damage from natural disasters
Labor Coverage
Some warranties cover only the parts, leaving you to pay for labor, which is often the more expensive component. Look for warranties that include both parts and labor.
Comparing Major Manufacturer Warranties
Here's a general overview of what major manufacturers typically offer:
Premium Brands (Clopay, Wayne Dalton, Amarr): - Lifetime warranty on door sections, 3-10 year finish warranty, 2-5 year hardware warranty, Often transferable to subsequent homeowners
Mid-Range Brands: - 10-15 year door section warranty, 1-3 year finish warranty, 1-2 year hardware warranty, May or may not be transferable
Economy Brands: - 3-5 year door section warranty, Limited or no finish warranty, 1 year hardware warranty, Rarely transferable
The True Cost of Cheap Warranties
It might be tempting to choose a less expensive door with a shorter warranty, but consider these scenarios:
Scenario 1: You purchase a budget door with a 3-year warranty for $800. In year 4, a panel is damaged and needs replacement. Cost: $400+ for the panel and installation.
Scenario 2: You purchase a quality door with a 10-year warranty for $1,200. The same damage occurs in year 4 and is covered under warranty. Cost: $0.
The initial savings of $400 resulted in an eventual cost of $600+ more when you factor in the out-of-warranty repair.
How to Protect Your Warranty
Even the best warranty won't help if you inadvertently void it. Here's how to keep your coverage intact:
Regular Maintenance
Most warranties require reasonable maintenance. This includes: - Annual lubrication of moving parts, Keeping tracks clean and aligned, Regular visual inspections, Prompt attention to minor issues
Professional Installation and Service
Many warranties are voided by DIY installation or repairs. Always use qualified professionals for: - Initial installation, Spring adjustments, Cable repairs, Opener installation and repair
Keep Documentation
Maintain records of: - Original purchase receipts, Installation documentation, Maintenance records, Repair invoices, Warranty registration (many require registration within 30 days)
Report Issues Promptly
Don't wait to report problems. Most warranties require timely notification of defects. Delayed reporting can result in claim denial.
Sunnyside Garage Doors Warranty Promise
We stand behind our work with one of the strongest warranties in the industry:
- 10-Year Warranty on All Work: Our installation and repair work is guaranteed for a full decade. - Manufacturer Warranty Compliance: We're authorized installers for major brands, ensuring your manufacturer warranty remains valid. - No-Hassle Guarantee: Not satisfied? We'll make it right. - Transferable Coverage: Our workmanship warranty transfers if you sell your home.
Questions to Ask Before Purchasing
When shopping for a new garage door, ask these warranty-related questions:
1. What exactly does the warranty cover? 2. What is excluded from coverage? 3. Is the warranty prorated or non-prorated? 4. Does it include parts and labor, or just parts? 5. Is it transferable? 6. What do I need to do to maintain warranty validity? 7. What is the claim process?
Ready to invest in a garage door with solid warranty protection? Call Sunnyside Garage Doors at (509) 632-4012 for a free consultation.