High-end Window Warranties
My architect warned me that window manufacturers would not offer warranties on windows sold directly to me, the owner-builder, as a “non-glazier.” Sure enough, the quote we got came with that qualification. How concerned should I be? I imagine I’m not the first to be confronted by this, so I’d welcome any advice or details about your experiences. These are Alpen triple pane windows, with thin glass, of high quality and reasonably priced, so I can’t imagine looking elsewhere. Should I consider having a company buy and install the windows in order to get the warranty? Has anyone here done that? I’ve yet to check if that is in fact an option–but I do admit that moving and installing fairly large and heavy windows is something I wouldn’t mind handing over to someone else if the cost isn’t too high. Thanks for your insights.
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I recently received a large order I placed direct with Alpen. I know of no such provision in their warranty. Here's the link to their Tyrol Series Warranty. I also placed a claim with no problem.
https://thinkalpen.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Alpen-HPP-Tyrol-Residential-Warranty-2018-02-v3.pdf
Thanks, nynick. After checking more closely with the quote, it appears that the non-warranty is for the IG glass units that I am getting separately for doors I'm making. The note that came with the quote was ambiguous, but the salespersons have always been very helpful, so this makes more sense. As I noted, I've been very pleased with Alpen and think the windows are going to be great.
My project is two phase, so we've only installed 17 out of 57 units. I am very pleased with the windows. We have yet to move into the space but they seem to be everything I had hoped for.
One screen wasn't installed properly and two windows had improperly spaced muntins. No problem. Customer service was great and replacements are coming, although we have to wait a while.