Home Improvements
Warranties Play Important Role in Home Repairs
By
Sep 25, 2005, 21:21

(NUI) - It's a fact of life - things break. But when they do, will you be prepared?

While it's common to pay attention to warranties on electronics, people often overlook warranties on products for the home.

However, if you examine and understand the warranties on items such as windows, carpets and countertops, you could save a significant amount of money by avoiding unexpected costs.

* Windows: Windows play a multifaceted role in home construction and design, providing protection, light and decoration to both the interior and exterior of the home. With these important functions in mind, primary consideration should be paid to window warranties ensuring maximum protection from harsh climate elements and defects in materials and workmanship.

When choosing from the variety of offerings on the market, pay particular attention to windows with lifetime warranties. The inclusion of labor and replacement parts is a key component of the warranty that is often overlooked. Jeld-Wen's Summit Collection offers a lifetime warranty on vinyl windows, including the free replacement parts and skilled labor necessary to replace components. Learn more about the lifetime warranty available on Jeld-Wen vinyl windows on www.jeld-wen.com.

* Carpet: According to the Carpet and Rug Institute, carpets cover more than 70 percent of the floors in the United States. Common problems, including stains and texture preservation, increase the importance of the product warranty.

Most carpet manufacturers offer a "wear" warranty, which refers to the loss of pile weight or pile fiber due to abrasive wear. These warranties typically range anywhere from five to 25 years. Before investing in carpeting, be sure the brand you select is covered by a wear warranty that is appropriate for your needs.

* Countertops: The countertop is not only a functional mainstay of the kitchen but also is a key ingredient to the overall design of the kitchen. While the average life span of many countertops is about 30 years, stains, scratching and heat damage, may not be covered.

To be prepared for any potential product problems, keep your warranty - along with service contract, receipts and instructions - stored in a safe, easily accessible place.

If you have a problem with any product, contact the retailer or manufacturer as soon as possible. Trying to fix the product yourself could cancel your right to service under the warranty.

The key to maximizing the benefits of a warranty is to understand it. Ask questions and read all the fine print.

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