What Types Of Warranties Do Fence Companies Typically Offer?

When investing thousands of dollars in a new fence, you want to make sure your investment is protected for years to come. What types of warranties do fence companies typically offer?

Most reputable fence companies offer 1-5 year workmanship warranties and 15-25 year manufacturer warranties on materials, with specific coverage varying by company and fencing material type.

While this general overview is helpful, you’ll want to continue reading to understand the crucial differences between workmanship and manufacturer warranties, what each typically covers, and how to ensure you’re getting the best warranty protection for your specific fence installation.

What’s The Difference Between Workmanship And Manufacturer Warranties?

A workmanship warranty covers the actual installation of your fence and any issues that arise from improper installation. This type of warranty is provided directly by the fence company. It typically covers issues such as posts becoming loose, gates not closing correctly, or sections becoming misaligned due to installation errors.

Manufacturer warranties, on the other hand, cover defects in the fencing materials themselves. These warranties are provided by the material manufacturer, not the fence company, and typically cover issues like premature rusting, rotting, or material deterioration under normal use conditions.

What Does A Typical Fence Warranty Cover?

Workmanship warranties typically cover labor costs associated with fixing installation-related issues, including the realignment of posts, repair of improperly installed panels, and adjustment of gates. However, they typically don’t cover damage from natural disasters, accidents, or normal wear and tear.

Material warranties generally cover defects in manufacturing, such as premature fading of vinyl fencing, warping of wood boards, or rust formation on metal components. These warranties often provide replacement materials but may not cover the labor costs for replacing defective parts.

How Can You Ensure You’re Getting The Best Warranty Coverage?

Always get the warranty terms in writing and read the fine print carefully. Look for specific details about what is and isn’t covered, the duration of the coverage, and the claim process. For more information about warranty options and professional installation services, this site provides detailed guidance on choosing the right fence contractor and understanding warranty coverage.

Make sure to ask about warranty transferability if you sell your home, as this can add value to your property. Also, keep records of your fence installation and any maintenance performed, as many warranties require proper maintenance to remain valid.

What Are Common Warranty Exclusions To Watch Out For?

Most fence warranties won’t cover damage from extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, or flooding. They also typically exclude damage caused by impact (like a car hitting the fence) or intentional misuse. Some warranties become void if you modify the fence or attempt repairs yourself.

Pay special attention to maintenance requirements in your warranty. Many manufacturers require specific care routines, like regular cleaning or sealing, to maintain warranty coverage. If you fail to perform these maintenance tasks, you might inadvertently void your warranty.

How Do You File A Warranty Claim If Something Goes Wrong?

The first step is to document the issue thoroughly with photos and detailed descriptions. Contact your fence company immediately for workmanship-related issues, as many warranties have strict time limits for reporting problems.

For manufacturer warranty claims, you’ll typically need to work through your fence company or directly with the manufacturer. Be prepared to provide proof of purchase, maintenance records, and documentation of the problem. Some companies require an inspection before approving warranty work, and there may be a waiting period before repairs can begin.

Remember that most legitimate warranty claims are handled without much hassle if you’ve maintained your fence properly and have documentation. However, the process can take several weeks from initial claim to final resolution, so patience is essential.

Conclusion

Before signing any fence contract, request written warranty documentation from multiple fence companies and compare them side by side. This simple step will help you identify which company offers the most comprehensive protection for both workmanship and materials, potentially saving you thousands in future repair costs. Be sure to note any specific maintenance requirements so you can protect your warranty coverage from the start.