@politics906 Thanks for clarifying. That makes sense. So basically my lifetime as owner. I was just curious if there was a catch like “oh lifetime = 20 years” in fine print. But sounds like it’s meant to be indefinite for original owner.
We specifically chose Simonton windows because of the “double lifetime” warranty. We figured if we sell in, say, 10 years, we can advertise that the windows are still under warranty for the next folks. It gave us a little extra justification to spend the money on quality windows. Also, in researching, Simonton’s customer service in warranty cases got good feedback (people said they were easy to deal with). So far haven’t needed it, but it’s nice knowing it’s there.
I had a quote from a small local window manufacturer (not a big brand). Their warranty was only 10 years on everything (non-transferable). The product seemed okay, but that shorter warranty made me hesitate. The rep tried to assure me “if something’s gonna happen, it’ll happen in 10 years.” Maybe, but I ended up going with a more mainstream product with a lifetime warranty just because it felt like a safer bet. I guess I wasn’t convinced that small company would be around or that 10 years was enough.
In hindsight I’m happy with my choice. Even though I might never use year 11-20 of the warranty, it’s psychological comfort.
Just want to say, this thread has been an amazing read. Thanks to everyone, I feel well-prepared. It’s rare to see homeowners helping each other out in such detail. I’ve taken a bunch of notes from here for when I start getting my quotes. Big thanks, all! 🙏
Final Update: The windows have been installed, and everything went great! 🎉
Karoly’s crew came out last week and did the full installation in one day, as promised (8 windows total for my house). They were super professional – laid down drop cloths, carefully removed the old windows, put in the new impact windows, and trimmed everything out nicely. The county inspector came the next day and we passed without any issues.
Now for the part everyone’s curious about: the warranties and after-install follow-up. The crew lead walked me through a binder at the end which included:
Karoly’s Gold Standard Warranty certificate, outlining the 25-year workmanship coverage. It basically says if any issues due to install arise, they’ll fix it at no cost. (Hopefully I never need it, but it’s in writing very clearly.)
The manufacturer’s warranty info from Simonton. It’s a hefty booklet, but they pointed out the registration instructions and key points. Lifetime for me, 20 years for next owner, etc., as we discussed. They had already registered my windows online on my behalf (I got an email confirmation from Simonton about the registration the day after install).
Care and maintenance guidelines (like cleaning, how to operate the windows, etc.). This covered things like lubricating tracks, not using a pressure washer directly on window seals, etc. — basically tips to keep the windows in good shape and the warranty valid.
A final checklist and contact info in case I notice any issues.
I did a thorough walk-through with them. Everything looked perfect – all windows open, close, lock smoothly, and are sealed well. We had a rainstorm two days after install, and I anxiously checked every window – bone dry inside, no drafts. 🎉
I have to say, the house feels different: quieter and the AC seems to run less already. Could be placebo, but I think it’s real.
I’m extremely happy with the outcome. Karoly Windows lived up to their reputation. The warranty was a big reason I chose them, and now having all the paperwork in hand, I feel very secure that if anything ever comes up, they’ll be there. The true test of a warranty is if you need to use it, but it’s reassuring to know so many of you have had good experiences if/when you had to.
I want to thank everyone in this thread. This turned out to be such a valuable discussion. Not only did it help me, but I’m sure it’ll help others (I see a lot of new faces chiming in too).
If anyone has questions about the install or the warranties now that I’ve gone through it, I’m happy to answer. Otherwise, I’ll stick around the forums and try to pay it forward with what I’ve learned. 😊
Cheers to new windows and peace of mind!
@ejackson55 That’s fantastic news! So glad to hear the installation went smoothly and you’re already noticing the benefits. Welcome to the “new windows club” 😄.
It sounds like Karoly did everything right, and you have all your warranty ducks in a row. The fact they registered the products for you and provided all that documentation is A+ service in my book.
Enjoy the quieter home and those likely lower energy bills. And of course, the peace of mind that you have robust warranties if you ever need them (though fingers crossed you won’t have to use them, aside from maybe minor things).
This thread has been a pleasure to be a part of. Congrats again, and thanks for closing the loop with us!
I’m glad I stumbled on this thread. I’m about to sign a contract for my windows and this made me double-check the warranty details. Ended up clarifying a couple points with the contractor before signing, thanks to the knowledge I got here.
Congrats @ejackson55 on your successful project!
Same here, I learned a ton. I was leaning toward the cheapest quote I got, but after reading all this, I went back and looked closer — that cheap quote had a sketchy short warranty and the company had mediocre reviews. I’m now choosing a slightly more expensive, but more trusted, company. I feel better about it. Worth the extra $$ for peace of mind.
Thanks to everyone who shared experiences.
This might be late, but I have a question for anyone still around: The contractor I’m about to go with offers only a 2-year labor warranty. I remember @tea_steven or someone saying that’s not uncommon. I really like this contractor otherwise (small family business, good reviews). Should I try to negotiate that higher, or just accept it and trust their quality? I don’t have another quote that I like as much, so I’m inclined to go with them. Just curious if pushing for, say, 5 years is worth attempting.
@marketing983 If you really like the contractor and their price/quality, I wouldn’t let the 2-year labor warranty be a deal-breaker. You could certainly ask politely, “Is there any chance you could extend the labor warranty to 5 years? It would really make me more comfortable choosing you.” The worst they can say is no.
Some small companies might extend it as a customer service gesture, or they might stick to 2 years firm. If they say no but you still want them, I’d make sure to be extra vigilant during those first 2 years (really put the windows through their paces in all seasons, heavy rain, etc. to flush out any issues).
Given their good reputation, they probably rarely have install problems. And even beyond 2 years, if something obvious from install surfaces, a good-hearted company might still take care of you (like @marks96 described some do). But that part is unofficial.
So yeah, ask if you feel like it – there’s no harm. If they have a reason for 2 years (maybe because issues will show by then), they’ll tell you.
Either way, sounds like you’ve found a solid installer. Good luck!