MySanDiego
MySanDiego
  • Home
  • Columns
    • Ask the Paint Pro
    • Made in San Diego
    • Consumer Insights
    • Window Shopping with Michal
  • Business Directory
  • Add Your Business
  • Advertise
  • My Account
  • Contact Us

How to Void Your San Diego Replacement Window Warranty

by Michal Bohm    2 min read     November 12, 2018

How to Void Your San Diego Replacement Window Warranty


Almost any replacement window product you purchase will come with a warranty. The coverage of that warranty can range from as little as one or two years to as long as a lifetime (or two). But just like any other document written by a team of lawyers, warranties include lots of “fine print.” The fine print in window warranties usually includes multiple items that will limit or completely nullify the warranty’s coverage. Here are some of the most common ways to render your replacement window warranty useless.

Improper Installation

Improper installation is a surefire way to nullify your replacement window warranty, which makes sense because improperly installed windows are more likely to fail. Replacement windows have a different installation process than windows installed in new builds, so make sure you hire someone who is specifically experienced in installing replacement windows. Your best bet is to go with a replacement window company that uses their own team of trained replacement window installers, as opposed to a company that uses independent contractors or general laborers. Some replacement window manufacturers will also require that your windows be installed by an authorized dealer of their products, so make sure you read the fine print and ask questions of your replacement window installer.

Failure to Maintain Your Windows According to the Manufacturer’s Instructions

Vinyl and fiberglass replacement windows are generally designed to be low maintenance, but that doesn’t mean you can avoid maintaining your windows altogether. Your warranty should come with specific instructions for cleaning and maintaining your windows, which need to be followed to the letter. Things like cleaning your windows with caustic chemicals or high-pressure hose nozzles will often void a replacement window warranty.

Abusing Your Windows and Screens

New windows and sliding doors that are properly installed should open and close freely, without much effort. If they don’t, refrain from trying to force them to open and close, since doing so could be considered “abuse” and will nullify your warranty. If you are unable to fix the problem on your own by cleaning or lubricating your window or door tracks, notify your installer, who should come out and fix the problem.

If your window warranty covers your screens (some do and some don’t), do your best to keep pets from clawing at them. Most manufacturers won’t cover screens damaged by pets.

Failure to Complete the Proper Transfer Paperwork

Some of the better replacement window warranties in the industry will offer coverage to a second San Diego homeowner. The warranty does not usually transfer automatically from the original purchaser of the windows to the subsequent homeowner, however. The original purchaser must typically fill out a transfer form and send it to the manufacturer within a certain amount of time (usually within 30 days of the sale of the home). Failing to do so will nullify the window warranty for the San Diego home’s new owner.

Not Reading All the Fine Print

Every warranty has its own specific set of limitations and exclusions, so be sure to read it carefully. If something in the warranty is unclear, ask your replacement window dealer or installer for clarification.

Michal Bohm is the owner of BM Windows, an independent replacement window company serving San Diego County for many years. Specializing in replacement vinyl windows and doors, Michal provides one of the industry's best window guarantees and his company doesn't use high pressure sales tactics. Instead, they help to educate homeowners by providing explanation and options.

Opinions expressed by contributors are their own.

Topics: Window Shopping with Michal, home improvement san diego, manufacturer warranties, replacement windows san diego, window warranties
BM Windows San Diego

Recent Articles

  • 7 Essentials for Creating a Dreamy Kids Playroom
  • Solare Energy Offers a Unique Approach to Solar for San Diego
  • 6 Gorgeous Decor Trends That Will Dominate in 2023
  • Monarch Executive Transportation, a Family-Owned San Diego Business
  • Express Fix Coffee Equipment Specialist in San Diego

Ask the Paint Pro

What Color Combinations Should I Consider for the Exterior Paint on My San Diego Home?

Window Shopping with Michal

How Has the Replacement Window Industry in San Diego Changed Since Covid?

Consumer Insights

7 Essentials for Creating a Dreamy Kids Playroom

Related Articles


7 Essentials for Creating a Dreamy Kids Playroom

7 Essentials for Creating a Dreamy Kids Playroom

Artificial Grass in San Diego – Water Wise Grass

Artificial Grass in San Diego – Water Wise Grass

Are Custom Cabinets Worth the Cost in San Diego?

Are Custom Cabinets Worth the Cost in San Diego?

Bob Piva Roofing – A Trusted Name in North County

Bob Piva Roofing – A Trusted Name in North County

ProTouch Pool Services

ProTouch Pool Services

Is Your Roof About to Collapse? Advice from our Roofing Pros

Is Your Roof About to Collapse? Advice from our Roofing Pros

San Diego Custom Furniture Company Focuses on Quality and Customer Satisfaction

San Diego Custom Furniture Company Focuses on Quality and Customer Satisfaction

How Has the Replacement Window Industry in San Diego Changed Since Covid?

How Has the Replacement Window Industry in San Diego Changed Since Covid?

Apartment Building Maintenance: Essentials for Satisfied Tenants

Apartment Building Maintenance: Essentials for Satisfied Tenants

Sitemap | Submit an Article

Copyright © 2023 MySanDiego™. All rights reserved.
San Diego Web Design by Modmacro℠



San Diego Replacement Windows