Window Warranty Series: Installation Warranties

In this series on the BM Windows blog, we’re looking at various aspects of replacement window warranties.

In a recent post in our Window Warranty Series, we focused on the double lifetime warranty, which is a type of warranty provided by window manufacturers (such as Anlin, Milgard, or Simonton). In this post, we will be talking about installation warranties. Installation warranties are offered by the company that sells and installs the windows, often called a replacement window dealer.

First off, let’s note that not all replacement window companies offer an installation warranty, so you shouldn’t automatically assume that the replacement windows you purchase come with one. An installation warranty provides a guarantee to the homeowner that is over and above what comes from the window manufacturing company, and is only offered by select replacement window companies in San Diego.

If you’re not sure whether or not a San Diego replacement window company has their own installation warranty—ask! And if they say they do have one, ask to see it in writing.

What Do Installation Warranties Cover?

Installation warranties typically cover all of the labor and materials used in the installation. As you know, if you’ve ever had any repair work done around your house, the labor is often the most expensive part of the repair project. When you have an installation warranty, the labor used to repair the initial installation problem is fully covered. There is no out-of-pocket expense for you if the issue you are experiencing is related an installation error.

Why Do You Need an Installation Warranty?

A manufacturer’s warranty only covers you if your replacement windows are somehow defective. The manufacturing company won’t cover you at all if it is determined that the people installing your replacement windows made a mistake or didn’t follow the proper installation procedures. When you have both a manufacturer’s warranty and an installation warranty, you are fully covered, no matter what the issue is that caused your replacement windows to malfunction.

Why Don’t All San Diego Replacement Window Companies Offer Installation Warranties?

Some San Diego replacement window companies are more interested in making a sale than they are in providing good customer service, especially when good customer service means going back to a home after the final bill has already been paid. It is just easier (and less costly) for a replacement window company to leave a homeowner with only the manufacturer’s warranty for protection.

In addition, some replacement window companies in San Diego use subcontractors for the installation of the windows and patio doors they sell. These subcontractors may just be general laborers who have experience in construction, but not necessarily training or experience specifically in window and door installation. When this is the case, a company may not be willing to provide their customers with an installation warranty because they are not fully confident in the abilities of those installing the products they sell, and therefore don’t want to guarantee their work.

Here at BM Windows, we use only our own team of highly trained and skilled replacement window installers. They are professionals with many years of experience as well as factory training. They know the products and the best installation methods. We also place a high priority on customer service. We want our customers to be happy with their purchase for life, which is why we offer a lifetime installation warranty. You can take a look at our warranty here, or you can ask a BM Windows team member for more information at your in-home consultation.