A flooring warranty is one of the most crucial things to consider when you are in the market for hardwood floors. It can help you sleep better at night knowing your investment is protected. However, with all the different options on the market today, it’s important to know exactly what is covered under your warranty and what is not. This will help you avoid any potential headaches or surprises later on. In this article, we will break down everything you need to know about hardwood flooring warranty vs engineered hardwood warranty vs more.
Types of Flooring Warranties: What You Need to Know
Flooring warranties can differ based on the flooring material and manufacturer. There are generally two main types of warranties you will come across when buying hardwood or engineered wood floors:
- Limited Finish Warranty – This often covers finish defects such as peeling, premature wear-through, or separation from the surface.
- Structural Warranty – This pertains to the wood’s integrity and that the floor will not warp, buckle, or separate under normal conditions.
For expert advice and guidance on flooring warranties, be sure to check out Flooring Surgeons.
Hardwood Flooring Warranty: What’s Covered?
A hardwood warranty will usually cover defects in materials and the structural integrity of the floor. Here is a breakdown of what is usually included in a hardwood warranty:
- Manufacturing Defects: Defects in the wood itself, such as cracks, warping, or separation.
- Finish Defects: Defects in the finish, such as peeling, bubbling, or premature wear-through.
- Structural Integrity: The floor’s ability to withstand normal conditions without warping or buckling.
Hardwood flooring warranties typically last for 25 years, though some manufacturers offer extended coverage. Be sure to check the specific terms for your product to determine the exact duration and limitations of coverage.
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Engineered Hardwood Warranty: What’s Different?
Engineered hardwood floors are different from solid hardwood floors, as it may come with both a structural and a finish warranty. This warranty can vary greatly depending on the manufacturer. The engineered hardwood warranty may cover:
- Structural Warranty: Protects against warping, buckling and delamination during normal conditions.
- Finish Warranty: As with hardwood flooring, this can cover finish defects such as fading or peeling.
Keep in mind that the majority of engineered flooring warranties last much less than a solid wood warranty. The engineered hardwood warranty is usually connected to temperature and humidity specifications, so it is important that these conditions are maintained to keep your warranty intact.
Laminate Flooring Warranty: Key Differences
Although laminate flooring warranties are usually stated for long periods, coverage is different from hardwood or engineered wood floors. Laminate flooring warranty normally includes:
- Materials and workmanship defects: Peeling, swelling, or other defects in the laminate surface.
- Wear-through: Areas where the laminate layer has worn through due to excessive use.
On the other hand, laminate flooring wood warranty will not cover normal wear and tear, scratches, or scuffs, and this is an important aspect to know when selecting laminate flooring.
Comparing Warranties: Key Points to Look For
To make an informed decision, here’s a quick comparison of hardwood flooring warranty, engineered hardwood warranty, and laminate flooring warranty:
| Warranty Type | Hardwood Flooring | Engineered Hardwood | Laminate Flooring |
| Materials Coverage | Defects in wood | Structural defects, finish defects | Materials defects |
| Finish Coverage | Peeling, fading, wear-through | Peeling, fading | Wear-through, swelling |
| Structural Coverage | Warping, cracking | Warping, buckling | Not applicable |
| Duration | 25–100 years | 25–50 years | 10–25 years |
| Environmental Conditions | Normal household | Specific humidity & temperature levels | No specific conditions |
| Exclusions | Normal wear & tear | Improper maintenance, environmental damage | Normal wear & tear |
What Is Not Covered by Flooring Warranties?
Of course, it’s also important to know what’s not covered by warranties. Some of the common exclusions in most hardwood warranty policies are:
- Normal Wear and Tear: Scratches, dents, and scuffs that are the result of everyday use.
- Improper Installation: Installation that is not performed correctly or that is not in compliance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Environmental Damage: Problems that occur as a result of high humidity, excessive moisture, or temperature changes (Note: This can apply specifically to engineered hardwood warranty).
As you can see, following any maintenance requirements and making sure your floor is installed correctly is a must to prevent your warranty from being voided.
Maximizing Your Warranty Coverage
To maximize your warranty coverage, take these steps:
- Understand the Coverage: Carefully read the warranty terms to know what’s covered.
- Proper Installation: Ensure the flooring is installed correctly, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep up with cleaning and maintenance as recommended.
- Adhere to Environmental Conditions: Particularly for engineered hardwood, maintain appropriate temperature and humidity levels.
Choosing the Best Flooring for Your Needs
When choosing between hardwood, engineered hardwood, and laminate, it is important to weigh not just the warranty coverage but also the long-term value, maintenance requirements, and overall durability. If you’re interested in sustainable and eco-friendly flooring options, consider exploring engineered flooring cost.
Visit Flooring Surgeons for detailed information and expert advice on selecting the right flooring and understanding warranties. We offer comprehensive guidance and high-quality flooring solutions tailored to your needs.
