Are Lifetime Window Warranties Really Lifetime?

When shopping for new windows, you’ll often come across companies advertising “lifetime warranties.” It sounds reassuring – after all, what’s better than a guarantee that lasts a lifetime?

But here’s the catch: many so-called "lifetime" warranties fall far short of what they say on the tin, and what homeowners expect. Some last only 20 to 25 years (and some even less). Some cover just one part of the window, and many come with hidden labour costs that show up when you try to use them.

In this blog, we’ll break down what “lifetime warranty” really means in the window industry, what to watch out for, and how Centra Install Pros offers a clear, comprehensive 30-year warranty that truly protects your investment.

What Does “Lifetime Warranty” Usually Mean?

The term “lifetime warranty” can be misleading because the word “lifetime” often comes with fine print. In many cases:

• It refers to the expected lifespan of the product, not your lifetime or the time you live in the home.
• Only certain parts may be covered, such as the glass but not the frame, or the frame but not the labour.
• Installation isn’t included, which means if there’s an issue with how the window was installed, you’re on the hook.
• Labour costs are excluded after a short period, so you're still paying out of pocket if anything needs to be fixed.
• It may only apply to the original purchaser, meaning it ends the moment you sell your house.

So while a warranty might say “lifetime,” it’s often more of a marketing term than a true, worry-free guarantee.

How Centra’s 30-Year Warranty Is Different

At Centra Install Pros, we believe in clarity and real coverage for your windows. Here’s why our 30-year warranty is one of the best in the business:

1. It Covers Everything That Matters

That means the glass, the frame, AND the installation! Even when you hear a window warranty which mentions a number such as 20 or 25 years, that often only applies to one element of the window.

2. No Fine Print Surprises

We’re transparent about what’s covered and for how long – and unlike the vast majority of window warranties, the labour costs are covered, meaning you don’t need to pay if we come to fix something covered under the warranty!

3. It’s Fully Transferable

Selling your home? No problem. Our warranty transfers seamlessly to the new homeowner, adding resale value and peace of mind for the next family.

4. Backed by In-House Pros

Because we manufacture and install our own products, we have the expertise to deliver the quality and standards homeowners expect and stand behind everything with confidence. There's no finger-pointing between suppliers and installers – just reliable service from one trusted team.

Why Do Some Companies Limit Their Warranties?

Offering a true lifetime warranty means standing behind your product, your installation, and your labour – something many companies aren’t prepared to do.

To cut costs, they’ll:

• Offer limited warranties that expire in 5–25 years.
• Use outsourced installers, so they don’t cover installation issues.
• Require service fees or labour charges after a few years.
• Use non-transferable terms that end the warranty once the home is sold.

These limitations reduce the company’s liability – but leave you with unfair risk.

Questions to Ask When Comparing Warranties

Before you sign any window contract, ask these important questions:

1. How long is the warranty really?
2. What exactly is covered – glass, frame, installation, labour?
3. Is it transferable if I sell my home?
4. Are there service fees down the road?
5. Does the company install the windows themselves?

If you’re not getting clear, confident answers, it’s time to keep shopping.

Why Homeowners Trust Centra Install Pros

At Centra Install Pros, we’re proud to offer Western Canada a window warranty that actually means something. Our customers choose us for more than just great products – they choose us for the peace of mind that comes with real protection and honest service.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• 30-Year Warranty: Glass, frame, installation, and labour all covered.
• Fully Transferable: Adds resale value and long-term assurance.
• In-House Expertise: Our own team manufactures and installs.
• 100% Employee Owned: Every team member is invested in doing it right.

Window Warranty FAQ

1. What does a lifetime window warranty really cover?

Most "lifetime" window warranties only cover certain components, like the glass or frame, and they regularly only work for the expected lifetime of the window as opposed to the homeowner. They may also exclude installation or labour costs. Always check if the warranty includes all parts and services – or if “lifetime” just means 20–25 years.

2. Are window warranties transferable when I sell my home?

Some window warranties end the moment you sell your home. Centra Install Pros is an example of a company with a fully transferable 30-year warranty, helping you boost resale value and giving peace of mind to the next homeowner.

3. Do window warranties include installation and labour costs?

Many warranties exclude installation errors and start charging for labour after a short time. Centra Install Pros’ 30-year warranty includes both installation and labour, so homeowners are fully covered with no surprise fees.

4. How can I compare window warranties between different companies?

Ask about the actual length of coverage, what's included (glass, frame, labour, installation), whether the warranty is transferable, and if the company uses in-house installers. If any answers seem unclear, that’s a red flag.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Fooled by “Lifetime” Claims

If you’re replacing your windows, don’t assume all warranties are equal. “Lifetime” might not mean what you think. The main takeaway when dealing with window warranties? Always read the fine print.

At Centra Install Pros, we spell it out: 30 years of real coverage, with no tricks or surprises. Let us help protect your home with windows that perform beautifully – and a warranty that actually has your back. Book your free quote today!

Western Canada’s Top Choice for Windows & Doors

Have an upcoming window and door project? Reach out to the experts at Centra Windows & Install Pros for a free consultation! If you have any questions regarding this topic or anything else to do with windows, contact a local Centra Employee Owner at 1-888-534-3333 or drop us an email at info@centra.ca. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date, and test your window knowledge on LinkedIn.