What's the Difference Between Window Installation Warranty & Manufacturer Warranty?

When replacing windows and doors, most homeowners assume they’re fully protected by a warranty – but not all warranties are the same. Misunderstanding the difference between a window manufacturer warranty and a window installation warranty can lead to unexpected costs later.

Many homeowners only find out after something goes wrong that their warranty doesn’t cover labour, installation issues, or service costs. That’s why it’s so important to understand what each warranty actually protects – and why choosing the right company matters just as much as choosing the right windows.

Here we’ll break down the key differences between manufacturer warranties and installation warranties, explain where labour fits in and how it differs from installation, and show how Centra Install Pros eliminates warranty gaps with complete coverage.

What Is a Window Manufacturer Warranty?

A manufacturer warranty covers defects related to how the window or door was made. This warranty comes from the company that manufactured the product as opposed to the installer.

What’s Typically Covered:

• Defective window frames or sashes
• Glass seal failure (fogging or condensation between panes)
• Hardware defects (locks, hinges, handles)

What’s Usually Not Covered:

• Installation errors
• Air or water leaks caused by improper installation
• Labour costs to remove or reinstall the window
• Damage caused by poor workmanship

In many cases, the manufacturer may supply replacement parts – but the homeowner is responsible for paying the labour to install them. That’s where costs can add up quickly.

What Is a Window Installation Warranty?

A window installation warranty covers issues caused by improper installation or workmanship. This warranty comes from the installer – not the manufacturer.

What Installation Warranties Typically Cover:

• Air leaks due to improper sealing
• Water infiltration caused by flashing or installation errors
• Alignment or leveling issues
• Trim or finishing problems

The Catch:

Many installation warranties are:

• Limited to just a few years
• Non-transferable

If the installation warranty expires or the installer is no longer in business (which happens more often than you’d think), then homeowners will be left without protection.

Where Does Labour Fit In?

Labour is the most commonly overlooked (and most expensive) part of window service. Even if the manufacturer replaces the part, and the installation issue is acknowledged, you may still have to pay for:

• Service calls
• Window removal and reinstallation
• On-site repairs

This is why labour coverage is critical, and one reason why many “lifetime” warranties don’t actually provide lifetime coverage.

Why Having Two Separate Warranties Can Be a Problem

When one company manufactures the window and another installs it, responsibility often gets split. The manufacturer may blame the installation, and the installer may blame the product. This back-and-forth can delay repairs and leave homeowners stuck in the middle – sometimes paying out of pocket just to resolve the issue.

The best way to avoid this? Choose a company that stands behind both the product and the installation.

Centra’s Complete Window & Door Warranty Advantage

Centra Install Pros removes warranty confusion by offering one comprehensive warranty that covers the window and the installation.

Centra’s Industry-Leading 30-Year Warranty Covers:

• The window frame and glass
• The installation
• Labour costs – for the full 30 years!

There’s no finger-pointing or surprise service charges. If something were to go wrong due to manufacturing OR installation, Centra takes care of it. This extensive warranty – one of the best anywhere in Canada – demonstrates the confidence we place in our products, people, and processes.

Why Homeowners Choose Centra Install Pros

Homeowners across Western Canada choose Centra Install Pros because they want confidence – not just during the installation, but for decades after.

True 30-Year Warranty (Including Labour)

Centra’s fully transferable warranty covers the product, installation, and labour for 30 years. That’s real peace of mind and long-term protection.

One Company, One Responsibility

Centra manufactures and installs its windows using in-house Employee Owners. That means no subcontractors and no warranty gaps.

Built for Canadian Climates

Centra windows are manufactured in-province and engineered to perform in extreme Canadian weather – from freezing winters to heavy coastal rain.

Employee-Owned Installation Teams

Every installer is a Centra Employee Owner, ensuring accountability, craftsmanship, and consistent quality on every job.

Over 40 Years of Trusted Experience

With decades of expertise, Centra knows which products and installation methods deliver lasting performance and long-term savings on energy bills.

FAQ: Window Installation Warranty vs Manufacturer Warranty

Q: What’s the difference between a window manufacturer warranty and an installation warranty?

A: A manufacturer warranty covers defects in the window product itself, while an installation warranty covers workmanship issues related to how the window was installed.

Q: Does a manufacturer warranty include labour?

A: Often not. Most manufacturer warranties cover parts only, leaving homeowners to pay labour costs for removal and reinstallation.

Q: What happens if my window leaks due to improper installation?

A: That’s typically covered by an installation warranty – but only if it’s still valid. With Centra Install Pros, installation and labour are covered long term.

Q: Why is labour coverage so important in a window warranty?

A: Labour is often the most expensive part of repairs. Without labour coverage, even a “free” replacement window can cost a lot of money to install.

Q: Are Centra warranties transferable if I sell my home?

A: Yes. Centra Install Pros offers a 30-year fully transferable warranty, adding value and peace of mind for future homeowners and contributing to resale value.

Choosing the Right Warranty Makes All the Difference

Understanding the difference between a window installation warranty and a manufacturer warranty can save homeowners from major headaches and unexpected expenses.

The strongest protection comes from:

• High-quality windows
• Expert installation
• A single, comprehensive warranty that includes labour

Centra Install Pros delivers all three, with no gaps or surprises.

Book your free quote with Centra Install Pros today and protect your investment for decades to come!

Centra: 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.