Questions to Ask About Your Door Warranty

The door warranty is one of the most critical considerations when looking for a new exterior door. It gives you the peace of mind that the product you purchase can be repaired or replaced if something happens to it.

Normally, a door warranty should last anywhere between 5 to ten years. Some manufacturers may even offer lifetime warranties. There is a difference between manufacturer warranties and contractor or installation warranties. Just because a product comes with a manufacturer’s warranty, it does not mean it will come with an installation warranty.

These eight questions about door warranties will help you identify red flags when hiring: 

8 Questions you should ask about your door warranty

Most doors come with warranties for non-commercial or commercial use. This means that you are covered for as long as you own a home or until the warranty expires. Read on to find the answers to most critical questions new homeowners ask about door warranty. 

1. What is typically covered by a door warranty?

The warranties for your door will cover defects in materials and workmanship. Unless stated in the terms and conditions, most contractors do not cover damages caused by anything other than defects. For example, you may not get the replacement parts or compensation for damages caused by a hurricane or earthquake. 

The value of a warranty is that if something goes wrong with the product during the specified period, you have the right to have it repaired or replaced.

2. Are door warranties transferable to new homeowners?

You may want to transfer your warranty because it adds value to your home. When someone buys the home, they will have an assurance that the warranty will cover any problem that may arise. 

Some companies may charge a fee to transfer the warranty, most will allow the transfer as long as the warranty is registered. Don’t confuse the product warranty for a home warranty. 

3. Will adding a storm door void a front door warranty?

A storm door is not necessary for the proper operation of your entry door. However, it can be a great addition to your home as it helps protect your door from harsh weather elements. 

If you choose to add a storm door, it should not void any warranty on your entry door. In fact, some companies sell storm doors with warranties as well. 

4. What parts of the door are covered by a warranty?

Most of the time, only the parts of the door are covered by warranty and not the installation. This is why it is important you get a good warranty on the parts, as well as a good installer. 

Your warranty may cover the entire door or specific components. Most door warranties cover the frame for one year for paint, weatherstripping, and screen. All other parts are covered for a number of years from the installation date, except for glass and all other components. You’ll want to look over your warranty documents to be certain.

5. What is not included in the door warranty?

Some door warranties are more inclusive than others. Also, the coverage can vary significantly, so it is important to ask what they include when comparing products.

Warranties typically cover the door only if it has no defects in materials or workmanship. Any problems that occur after installation due to improper installation may not be part of the cover unless included in the warranty policy. 

6. Will adding a dog door void the door warranty?

Knowing the answer to this question can help you decide whether to install a dog door void or not. The value of pet doors can feel immeasurable but you may want to make sure it is a factory installed door unless your door warranty has already expired. You’ll want to ask the warranty department about this question. 

7. Does the warranty protect door hardware?

Knowing whether the warranty will cover your door hardware is critical when looking for replacement parts. Also, some contractors only cover specific hardware. For example, contractors may not cover electronic parts of your door or aftermarket hardware.

Door hardware warranties cover parts like locks, door knobs, roller catches and door stops. You can also get a warranty for the door frames and the window panes. 

8. Is the glass in the door protected by a warranty?

Are you planning to install a glass door? Knowing whether the pane and the frame are included in the cover will help you ascertain if you are making the right choice. 

Most manufacturers will give you a guarantee for defects that result during the manufacturing but not the transportation and installation. In contrast, others may provide up to a 3-year warranty for your glass door. 

Conclusion 

The door is a major investment in your home. It enhances home aesthetics and protects you from the harsh climatic conditions outside. Getting a warranty for your door or the replacement parts can help you enhance your home's resale value. Up to this point, you've learned the 8 crucial questions you need to answer before choosing the right warranty for your door.