Siding Warranties and Guarantees

Choosing new siding for your home is a significant investment. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about protecting your home from the elements, improving energy efficiency, and potentially increasing its value. A crucial aspect of this investment is understanding the warranties and guarantees that come with the siding products you’re considering. These documents outline the manufacturer’s commitment to the quality and performance of their product. Navigating the world of siding warranties can be tricky, with varying terms, conditions, and coverage. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify siding warranties and guarantees, empowering you to make informed decisions and protect your investment.

Understanding the Basics: Warranty vs. Guarantee

Before diving into the specifics of siding warranties, it’s essential to understand the difference between a warranty and a guarantee. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings, especially from a legal standpoint.

Warranty

A warranty is a contractual promise made by the manufacturer or seller regarding the quality, performance, or condition of a product. It’s essentially an assurance that the product will meet certain standards and perform as expected for a specific period. If the product fails to meet these standards, the warranty outlines the remedies available to the buyer, which may include repair, replacement, or a refund.

Siding warranties typically cover defects in materials and workmanship. This means that if the siding warps, cracks, fades excessively, or otherwise fails due to a manufacturing flaw, the warranty will cover the cost of repair or replacement. However, warranties often come with limitations and exclusions, which we will discuss in detail later.

Guarantee

A guarantee is a broader promise that assures the buyer of their satisfaction with the product. It’s a more general statement of confidence in the product’s performance. Guarantees often focus on the buyer’s overall experience and may offer a refund or exchange if the buyer is not satisfied, even if there’s no specific defect. Guarantees are less common in the siding industry compared to warranties, but some companies may offer satisfaction guarantees in addition to their standard warranties.

For example, a siding company might offer a workmanship guarantee, assuring that the installation will be performed to a certain standard and that any issues arising from the installation will be corrected. This is separate from the manufacturer’s product warranty, which covers defects in the siding material itself.

Types of Siding Warranties

Siding warranties come in various forms, each offering different levels of coverage and protection. Understanding these different types is crucial for selecting the right siding and ensuring you have adequate protection against potential problems.

Limited Warranty

A limited warranty is the most common type of siding warranty. It provides coverage for specific defects or failures for a defined period. The warranty document will clearly outline what is covered, what is not covered, and the duration of the coverage. Limited warranties often have prorated coverage, meaning the amount of coverage decreases over time. For example, in the early years of the warranty, the manufacturer might cover 100% of the cost of replacement materials and labor. However, after a certain number of years, the coverage might decrease to 50% or even less.

It’s crucial to carefully read the fine print of a limited warranty to understand its limitations and exclusions. Common exclusions include damage caused by improper installation, natural disasters, or misuse of the product.

Lifetime Warranty

A lifetime warranty offers coverage for the “lifetime” of the product. However, the term “lifetime” can be ambiguous. In most cases, a lifetime warranty refers to the lifetime of the original homeowner or the lifetime of the property where the siding is installed. This means the warranty is not transferable to subsequent homeowners.

Even with a lifetime warranty, it’s important to read the terms and conditions carefully. Lifetime warranties often have limitations and exclusions similar to limited warranties. They may also require that the siding be installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications and maintained properly to remain valid.

Transferable Warranty

A transferable warranty allows the warranty coverage to be transferred to a new homeowner if the property is sold. This can be a valuable selling point for your home, as it provides assurance to potential buyers that the siding is protected against defects. Transferable warranties typically have restrictions on the transfer process, such as a time limit for transferring the warranty after the sale of the property.

While transferable warranties are more desirable than non-transferable warranties, they often come with shorter coverage periods for subsequent homeowners. For example, the original homeowner might have lifetime coverage, while subsequent homeowners might only have coverage for a specific number of years after the transfer.

Workmanship Warranty

A workmanship warranty, also known as an installation warranty, covers defects in the installation of the siding. This type of warranty is typically offered by the siding contractor and not the manufacturer. It ensures that the siding is installed correctly and that any issues arising from improper installation will be corrected.

Workmanship warranties are essential because even the best siding products can fail if they are not installed properly. Common issues covered by workmanship warranties include improper sealing, incorrect nailing, and poor flashing. The duration of workmanship warranties can vary, but they typically range from one to five years.

Key Factors to Consider When Evaluating Siding Warranties

Evaluating siding warranties requires careful consideration of several key factors. Understanding these factors will help you compare different warranties and choose the one that provides the best protection for your investment.

Coverage Period

The coverage period is the length of time that the warranty is in effect. Longer coverage periods generally provide more protection, but it’s important to consider the type of coverage offered during the warranty period. A longer limited warranty with prorated coverage might be less valuable than a shorter warranty with full coverage.

Pay close attention to the details of the coverage period, including the start date and end date of the warranty. The start date is typically the date of installation or the date of purchase. The end date is the date when the warranty expires.

Coverage Scope

The coverage scope defines what types of defects or failures are covered by the warranty. Common coverage areas include defects in materials, manufacturing defects, and premature fading or discoloration. Some warranties also cover hail damage, wind damage, or other specific types of damage.

Carefully review the warranty document to understand the specific types of defects that are covered. Pay attention to any exclusions or limitations that might apply. For example, some warranties exclude damage caused by improper maintenance or neglect.

Exclusions

Exclusions are specific types of damage or failures that are not covered by the warranty. Common exclusions include damage caused by natural disasters (such as earthquakes, floods, or hurricanes), improper installation, improper maintenance, misuse of the product, or alterations to the product.

Understanding the exclusions is crucial because they can significantly limit the value of the warranty. Before purchasing siding, carefully review the list of exclusions to ensure that you are comfortable with the risks that are not covered.

Proration

Proration refers to the gradual reduction in coverage over time. Many limited warranties have prorated coverage, meaning that the amount of compensation you receive decreases as the siding ages. For example, in the first few years of the warranty, you might receive 100% coverage for replacement materials and labor. However, after a certain number of years, the coverage might decrease to 50% or even less.

Proration can significantly reduce the value of a warranty, especially in the later years of the coverage period. When comparing warranties, pay close attention to the proration schedule to understand how the coverage will decrease over time.

Claim Process

The claim process outlines the steps you need to take to file a warranty claim. This typically involves notifying the manufacturer or seller of the defect, providing proof of purchase, and allowing an inspection of the siding. The claim process should be clearly outlined in the warranty document.

A simple and straightforward claim process is essential for ensuring that you can easily file a claim if a problem arises. Before purchasing siding, review the claim process to understand what is required and how long it typically takes to resolve a claim.

Manufacturer Reputation

The manufacturer’s reputation is an important factor to consider when evaluating siding warranties. A reputable manufacturer is more likely to stand behind their products and provide excellent customer service. Research the manufacturer’s history, read online reviews, and check their rating with the Better Business Bureau.

A manufacturer with a strong reputation is more likely to honor their warranty obligations and provide timely and effective resolution to any issues that arise.

Common Siding Warranty Exclusions

Understanding common siding warranty exclusions is just as important as understanding what is covered. Exclusions can significantly limit the scope of coverage and leave you responsible for the cost of repairs or replacements. Here are some of the most common siding warranty exclusions:

Improper Installation

This is one of the most common warranty exclusions. Siding must be installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications to maintain warranty coverage. If the siding is installed incorrectly, the warranty may be voided. This highlights the importance of hiring a qualified and experienced siding contractor.

Manufacturers often require specific installation techniques, such as proper nailing patterns, correct spacing between siding panels, and appropriate flashing around windows and doors. Failure to follow these guidelines can result in a voided warranty.

Natural Disasters

Damage caused by natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, and hailstorms is typically excluded from siding warranties. These events are considered “acts of God” and are beyond the manufacturer’s control. Homeowners insurance is typically the primary source of coverage for damage caused by natural disasters.

While some siding products are more resistant to certain types of natural disasters, such as hail-resistant siding, these products may still be excluded from warranty coverage if they are damaged by an event that exceeds their design specifications.

Improper Maintenance

Siding warranties typically require that the siding be properly maintained to remain valid. Improper maintenance, such as neglecting to clean the siding regularly, allowing mold or mildew to grow, or using abrasive cleaning products, can void the warranty.

Manufacturers often provide specific maintenance guidelines that must be followed. These guidelines may include recommendations for cleaning frequency, cleaning products, and other maintenance procedures.

Misuse or Abuse

Damage caused by misuse or abuse of the siding is typically excluded from warranty coverage. This includes damage caused by intentional acts, vandalism, or negligence. For example, if someone throws a rock at the siding and damages it, the warranty would likely not cover the cost of repair.

Misuse can also include using the siding for purposes for which it was not intended. For example, using the siding as a ladder or platform could void the warranty.

Alterations or Modifications

Altering or modifying the siding in any way can void the warranty. This includes painting the siding, cutting it, drilling holes in it, or attaching accessories that are not approved by the manufacturer. Any modifications to the siding must be done in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines to maintain warranty coverage.

Manufacturers often have specific requirements for painting or staining the siding, including the type of paint or stain that can be used and the application process. Failure to follow these requirements can void the warranty.

Settling or Structural Movement

Damage caused by settling or structural movement of the building is typically excluded from siding warranties. This type of damage is considered to be the result of underlying structural issues and is not the responsibility of the siding manufacturer.

If your home experiences significant settling or structural movement, it’s important to consult with a structural engineer to assess the damage and determine the appropriate repairs. Homeowners insurance may cover some types of structural damage.

Fading or Discoloration (Beyond Specified Limits)

While most siding warranties cover excessive fading or discoloration, they typically have limits on the amount of fading that is considered to be covered. The warranty will often specify a maximum acceptable level of fading, measured using a standardized color scale.

Normal fading due to exposure to sunlight and weathering is typically not covered by the warranty. The warranty only covers fading that exceeds the specified limits. This highlights the importance of choosing siding colors that are fade-resistant.

Tips for Protecting Your Siding Warranty

Protecting your siding warranty requires proactive measures both before and after installation. Here are some essential tips for ensuring that your warranty remains valid and that you can easily file a claim if a problem arises:

Choose a Reputable Contractor

Hiring a qualified and experienced siding contractor is crucial for protecting your warranty. A reputable contractor will be familiar with the manufacturer’s installation guidelines and will ensure that the siding is installed correctly. They will also be able to provide you with documentation to prove that the installation was done properly.

Before hiring a contractor, check their credentials, read online reviews, and ask for references. Make sure they are licensed and insured. It’s also a good idea to ask them about their experience with the specific type of siding you are considering.

Keep Detailed Records

Keep detailed records of all aspects of your siding project, including the date of purchase, the date of installation, the name of the contractor, and any maintenance performed. These records will be essential for filing a warranty claim if a problem arises.

Store all of your siding-related documents in a safe and accessible location. This includes the warranty document, the sales receipt, the installation contract, and any maintenance records.

Follow Manufacturer’s Installation Guidelines

Ensure that the siding is installed according to the manufacturer’s installation guidelines. Provide the contractor with a copy of the installation instructions and monitor their work to ensure that they are following the guidelines. Any deviations from the installation instructions can void the warranty.

If you are installing the siding yourself, carefully read the installation instructions before starting the project. If you are unsure about any aspect of the installation process, consult with a qualified contractor or the manufacturer.

Perform Regular Maintenance

Perform regular maintenance on your siding to keep it clean and prevent damage. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines, which typically include recommendations for cleaning frequency, cleaning products, and other maintenance procedures.

Regular maintenance can help to prevent common problems such as mold and mildew growth, which can void the warranty. It can also help to extend the life of your siding and maintain its appearance.

Inspect Siding Regularly

Inspect your siding regularly for any signs of damage or deterioration. Look for cracks, warps, fading, or other issues. If you notice any problems, address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Early detection of problems can help to prevent them from escalating and potentially voiding the warranty. It’s a good idea to inspect your siding at least once a year, or more frequently if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions.

File Claims Promptly

If you experience a problem with your siding that you believe is covered by the warranty, file a claim promptly. Delaying the filing of a claim can jeopardize your chances of getting it approved. Follow the manufacturer’s claim process, which typically involves notifying them of the defect, providing proof of purchase, and allowing an inspection of the siding.

Be sure to provide all of the required information and documentation to support your claim. This will help to expedite the claim process and increase your chances of getting a favorable outcome.

Siding Material Specifics and Warranties

Different siding materials come with their own unique warranty considerations. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right material for your needs and ensure you understand the warranty implications.

Vinyl Siding Warranties

Vinyl siding is a popular choice due to its affordability and low maintenance. Warranties for vinyl siding typically cover manufacturing defects such as cracking, peeling, blistering, and excessive fading. Many vinyl siding manufacturers offer lifetime limited warranties to the original homeowner, but these often become prorated or non-transferable upon sale of the property. It’s important to check if the warranty covers fading and discoloration, as this can be a common concern, especially with darker colors. Some warranties specifically exclude damage from hail, wind above a certain speed, or improper installation.

Fiber Cement Siding Warranties

Fiber cement siding is known for its durability and resistance to fire and pests. Warranties for fiber cement siding typically cover manufacturing defects such as cracking, rotting, and delamination. James Hardie, a leading manufacturer of fiber cement siding, offers a 30-year limited transferable product warranty and a 15-year finish warranty on their pre-finished products. Installation is critical with fiber cement; improper nailing or sealing can void the warranty. Be sure the contractor is certified by the manufacturer to ensure proper installation and warranty validation.

Wood Siding Warranties

Wood siding offers a natural and aesthetically pleasing look, but it requires more maintenance than other materials. Warranties for wood siding typically cover manufacturing defects such as warping, splitting, and rotting. However, these warranties often have strict requirements for proper installation, sealing, and maintenance. Regular painting or staining is essential to maintain the warranty, and failure to do so can void the coverage. Wood siding warranties are often shorter than those for vinyl or fiber cement, typically ranging from 5 to 20 years.

Aluminum Siding Warranties

Aluminum siding is lightweight, durable, and resistant to fire and pests. Warranties for aluminum siding typically cover manufacturing defects such as cracking, peeling, and chalking. Many aluminum siding manufacturers offer lifetime limited warranties, but these often become prorated or non-transferable upon sale of the property. Pay close attention to the finish warranty, as the paint or coating on aluminum siding can fade or chalk over time. Some warranties specifically exclude damage from hail or dents.

Engineered Wood Siding Warranties

Engineered wood siding, such as LP SmartSide, offers the look of wood with improved durability and resistance to moisture and pests. Warranties for engineered wood siding typically cover manufacturing defects such as warping, cracking, and rotting. LP SmartSide offers a 50-year limited warranty on their siding products. Proper installation is critical, and the warranty may be voided if the siding is not installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Be sure to use approved fasteners and flashing materials to maintain the warranty coverage.

Understanding Pro-Rated Warranties

As mentioned earlier, many siding warranties are pro-rated. This means that the amount of coverage decreases over time. For example, in the first few years, the warranty might cover 100% of the replacement cost, but after 10 years, it might only cover 50% or even less. This can significantly impact the value of the warranty, especially if problems arise later in the warranty period. Always carefully review the pro-ration schedule to understand how the coverage will decrease over time.

To illustrate, let’s consider a scenario: you have siding with a lifetime limited warranty that is pro-rated after 10 years. After 15 years, the siding develops a manufacturing defect. According to the warranty schedule, you are only entitled to 60% of the original cost of the siding materials, and labor costs are not covered. You will be responsible for the remaining 40% of the material costs, plus the entire cost of labor. This can still amount to a significant out-of-pocket expense.

DIY vs. Professional Installation and Warranty Implications

Choosing between DIY and professional installation of siding can have a significant impact on the validity of your warranty. Many siding manufacturers require professional installation to maintain the warranty coverage. This is because proper installation is crucial for the long-term performance of the siding, and manufacturers want to ensure that the siding is installed according to their specifications.

If you choose to install the siding yourself, you may void the manufacturer’s warranty. Even if the warranty doesn’t explicitly require professional installation, improper installation can lead to problems that are not covered by the warranty. For example, if the siding is not properly sealed, it can be susceptible to moisture damage, which is often excluded from warranty coverage. Hiring a professional installer can ensure that the siding is installed correctly and that your warranty remains valid. Furthermore, professional installers often offer their own workmanship warranties, providing an additional layer of protection.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing Siding

Before making a final decision on your siding, it’s crucial to ask the right questions. This will help you understand the product, the warranty, and the installation process. Here are some essential questions to ask:

• What is the warranty coverage, and what does it include?
• What are the exclusions to the warranty?
• Is the warranty transferable?
• Is professional installation required to maintain the warranty?
• Does the warranty cover fading and discoloration?
• Is the warranty pro-rated, and if so, what is the pro-ration schedule?
• What are the manufacturer’s installation guidelines?
• What are the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations?
• What is the claim process for filing a warranty claim?
• Does the contractor offer a workmanship warranty?
• Can the contractor provide references from previous customers?

Navigating the Claims Process

Filing a warranty claim can be a complex and time-consuming process. To increase your chances of a successful claim, it’s important to be prepared and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Here are some tips for navigating the claims process:

• Review the warranty document carefully to understand the claim process.
• Gather all of the required documentation, including proof of purchase, installation contract, and maintenance records.
• Notify the manufacturer of the defect as soon as possible.
• Provide detailed information about the problem, including photos and videos.
• Allow the manufacturer to inspect the siding.
• Follow up with the manufacturer regularly to check on the status of your claim.
• If your claim is denied, understand the reason for the denial and consider appealing the decision.

The Importance of Reading the Fine Print

Throughout this guide, we’ve emphasized the importance of reading the fine print of siding warranties. This cannot be overstated. The warranty document is a legal contract that outlines the manufacturer’s obligations and your rights. It’s essential to understand all of the terms and conditions before purchasing siding. Don’t rely solely on the salesperson’s description of the warranty. Take the time to read the entire document yourself and ask questions if anything is unclear. The fine print can reveal important limitations, exclusions, and requirements that can significantly impact the value of the warranty. Ignoring the fine print can lead to unpleasant surprises down the road.

In conclusion, understanding siding warranties and guarantees is crucial for protecting your investment. By carefully evaluating the warranty coverage, exclusions, and claim process, you can make informed decisions and ensure that you have adequate protection against potential problems. Remember to choose a reputable contractor, follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines, perform regular maintenance, and keep detailed records. By taking these steps, you can protect your siding warranty and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful and durable home exterior for years to come.