Warranty Guide 2026By Matt Boud, FGIA Certified Master InstallerUpdated November 20267 minute readA window warranty is one of the most important things to compare when you replace your windows, and one of the least understood. The headline usually says “lifetime,” but the details decide what you are actually covered for. Here is what a window warranty covers, how the major brands compare, and how to make a claim if something goes wrong.
- A window warranty covers manufacturing defects in the frame, the sash, the insulated glass seal and the parts. It does not cover accidental damage, storms or normal wear.
- Glass seal coverage is usually 20 years. Burris windows are covered for life for the original homeowner.
- Most window warranties transfer when you sell your home, often for a shorter term.
- Installation matters. Manufacturers tie coverage to correct installation, so an improper install can put your warranty at risk.
- To file a claim, take photos, find your proof of purchase and call the company that installed your windows first.
CoverageWhat Is Typically Covered Under a Window Warranty?
Window warranties cover defects in materials and manufacturing. In plain terms, that means the window itself failing on its own, not something that happened to it. Most warranties break coverage into three parts:
Coverage against cracking, warping, chipping, peeling or blistering.
Coverage against seal failure, which shows up as fogging or moisture between the panes, and against breakdown of the Low-E coating.
Locks, balances, rollers and hardware, covered against manufacturing defects.
The glass seal is the part that matters most. A failed seal lets the insulating gas escape and moisture in, which is why you see fog between the panes. That is also why the glass maker matters. Burris windows use Cardinal insulated glass, which Cardinal reports has a seal failure rate of just 0.1 percent over 20 years.
“We have yet to see a Cardinal glass seal fail on a window we have installed.”Matt Boud, Optimal Windows
Length of coverageHow Long Do Window Warranties Last?
Coverage length depends on the brand and on which part of the window you are talking about. Glass is commonly covered for 20 years. Non-glass parts are commonly covered for 10 years. A few manufacturers go further. Burris covers the frame, glass and parts for life for the original homeowner of a single-family home, and Pella Impervia covers its fiberglass frame for as long as you own your home.
Side by sideWindow Warranty Comparison: Burris vs Pella vs Andersen vs Marvin
Here is how popular replacement window lines compare, based on each manufacturer’s published warranty as of November 2026. Always confirm the current terms with your installer before you sign.
| Window line | Frame | Insulated glass | Other parts | If you sell your home |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burris TectView (vinyl) We install | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | Next owner gets 20 years from the original purchase date |
| Pella Impervia (fiberglass) We install | As long as you own your home | 20 years | 10 years | 10-year coverage transfers |
| Marvin Essential and Elevate (fiberglass) | 10 years | 20 years | 10 years | Fully transferable |
| Andersen 100 Series (Fibrex composite) | 10 years | 20 years | 10 years | Transferable |
| Renewal by Andersen (Fibrex composite) | 20 years | 20 years | 10 years | Fully transferable |
Comparing more than the warranty? See our ranking of the top window brands for Texas homes, with frame materials, glass packages and price tiers side by side.
Curious what your windows would cost?Get a price range for your home in about 60 seconds, no sales visit required.
See Your PriceExclusionsWhat Is Not Covered by a Window Warranty?
Warranties cover defects, not damage. These are typically excluded:
- Accidental breakage, such as a ball through the glass. Check your homeowner’s insurance for that.
- Storm damage and other events outside the manufacturer’s control.
- Normal wear, and damage from skipped maintenance.
- Problems caused by improper installation.
- Coverage beyond what applies to your home type. Lifetime coverage is usually for single-family homes, with shorter terms for multi-family and commercial buildings.
The other halfCan Installation Void My Window Warranty?
Yes. Manufacturers require their windows to be installed according to their instructions, and Pella’s warranty states plainly that failing to follow its installation and maintenance instructions can void coverage. A window that is not shimmed, insulated and sealed correctly can leak or bind, and the manufacturer can decline a claim if the problem traces back to the install.
That is why we install every window to FGIA certified installation standards and the manufacturer’s instructions. As an FGIA Certified Installation Company, we protect the factory warranty you are paying for, and our own workmanship warranty covers the installation itself.
Selling your homeDoes a Window Warranty Transfer If I Sell My Home?
Usually, yes, though often for a shorter term. Burris coverage becomes 20 years from your original purchase date for the next owner. Pella’s 10-year coverage on materials and workmanship transfers, and Marvin and Andersen offer transferable coverage as well. A transferable warranty can be a selling point when you list your home.
Step by stepHow Do I File a Window Warranty Claim?
- Take photos. Capture the problem clearly, plus the label on the window frame or glass spacer if you can find it.
- Find your proof of purchase. Your proposal or invoice is usually enough.
- Call the company that installed your windows first. Burris, for example, routes claims through the original contractor. Your installer coordinates with the manufacturer for you.
- Do not try to fix it yourself. A do-it-yourself repair can complicate or void a claim.
For Optimal Windows customers, everything you need is on our window warranty page, including how to start a request. Burris and Pella both have their own factory service teams, and Burris service runs out of its Fort Worth plant, so help is close to home.
Before you signCompare the Warranty Before You Compare the Price
Two quotes can look similar until you read the warranty. Ask every company you talk to what is covered, for how long, what happens if you sell, and who handles the claim. If you want a starting point on cost, see your price in about 60 seconds with our online window price calculator, or call or text (972) 768-1999 to book an in-home consultation.
QuestionsFrequently Asked Questions
What does a window warranty cover?
A window warranty covers manufacturing defects in the frame, the sash, the insulated glass seal and the parts. It does not cover accidental damage, storms or normal wear.
Is foggy glass between the panes covered by warranty?
Usually, yes. Fog or moisture between the panes is a sign of seal failure, which insulated glass coverage is designed for. Glass seal coverage is usually 20 years, and Burris covers the glass for life for the original homeowner.
Does the window brand affect my warranty?
Yes, and so does the installation. Each brand sets its own coverage, and most tie that coverage to correct installation. Choose a strong warranty and an installer who follows the manufacturer’s instructions.
Can installation void my window warranty?
Yes. Manufacturers require their windows to be installed according to their instructions, and the manufacturer can decline a claim if the problem traces back to the install.
Does a window warranty transfer if I sell my home?
Usually, yes, though often for a shorter term. Burris coverage becomes 20 years from your original purchase date for the next owner, and Pella, Marvin and Andersen offer transferable coverage as well.
See Your Window Price in About 60 Seconds
Burris and Pella windows, Cardinal Low-E glass and an FGIA Certified Installation Company. Clear Expert Guidance.
See Your PriceCall or Text (972) 768-1999