Many people think that their remodel comes with one warranty and one only, and that it covers the entire project from product to installation. Generally, it is not as simple as that. Each remodel comes with many warranties that are broken down into 3 main types.

1. Workmanship: this covers the installation and craftsmanship of those crews.
2. Manufacturer: covering defects in the product or failures related to improper manufacturing within a given timeframe.
3. Product: often found on specialty products such as waterproof shower systems, these are a promise that the product will perform as advertised.

Workmanship Warranties: Installation & Craftsmanship

Contractors will typically offer a workmanship warranty that covers anything that has to do with the quality of a build or an installation. If something is not up to standard, or fails due to improper installation, it is on the contractor to cover the costs specified within the warranty.

This is done to give clients confidence that their project will be done correctly and often is an indicator of how confident the contractor is in the quality of their work. Many remodelers offer a 1-year workmanship warranty, which is quite common. By comparison, we offer a 5-year workmanship warranty on every project, showing our confidence in the work we do.

Manufacturer’s Warranty: Defects in Products

A manufacturer’s warranty will cover any defects found in the products and failures related to improper manufacturing of that item. These kinds of warranties typically do not cover issues related to aesthetics, but rather the function of those items. If there is an issue related to functionality related to manufacturing, the maker of that product is liable for the fulfillment of the warranty.

An important note for manufacturers’ warranties; the duration is typically defined by the expected lifetime of the product in question. If the product fails beyond that timeframe, the company is no longer liable. It’s important to know what a product’s expected lifetime is before installation, as each product will be different.

Product: A Promise of Performance

Product warranties are similar to manufacturing warranties in that they cover products, but they cover them in different ways. These kinds warranties focus on guaranteeing the performance of products during normal use. For example, if a set of windows claims a certain level of energy efficiency and is covered by a product warranty the provider of the warranty is liable for compensation specified within the warranty. Generally, this means repairing the product, so it functions as intended, or replacement of said product.

A Practical Example

Let’s use new cabinetry as an example and how each kind of warranty would cover it.

• Workmanship Warranty: this warranty would cover any damage such as uneven reveals, scratches, chips, or scrapes on the surface, or doors not functioning properly due to improper installation.

• Manufacturer’s Warranty: defects such as doors not functioning properly due to the doors being manufactured to incorrect specifications.

• Product Warranty: if the manufacturer promised/advertised that the finish on their cabinets would hold up for a number of years of normal use, and the finish wears down before that time is up.

Who to Call

For each potential claim an important first step is to call your contractor or the installer. They will be able to do an in-depth assessment and determine which warranty the claim falls under. It can be easy to get lost in what went wrong, how that happened, and who is responsible for making it right. Having one point of contact makes a smooth experience when an issue arises and gives you security knowing that you will be pointed in the right direction the first time.