Do Home Warranties Cover Doors?
With a home’s many components, from its foundation to its roof, many homeowners turn to a home warranty to ensure everything stays in tip-top shape. But do these warranties cover every nook and cranny, particularly the doors that stand guard to our spaces?
A home warranty is a service agreement that covers the repair or replacement of major home appliances and systems. Unlike home insurance which covers damages from unexpected events like fires or natural disasters, a home warranty aims to protect homeowners from common wear-and-tear issues. The benefits of having one are numerous: peace of mind knowing that potentially costly repairs are covered, hassle-free service calls, and a go-to solution when things unexpectedly break down.
Are doors covered by home warranties?
At its core, when it comes to the question, “Do home warranties cover doors?”, the answer is: it depends. While some basic home warranty packages might exclude doors, many providers offer plans that include them, especially as part of an upgraded or premium package.
Coverage variances
When looking into home warranties, one size does not fit all. The range of coverage depends vastly on the type of plan you choose. While basic plans might focus more on primary home systems like plumbing or electrical, upgraded or premium packages often encompass a broader range of components, including doors.
Diverse door types and their coverage
Your home consists of a variety of door types, each serving a different purpose:
Exterior doors: These are crucial not only for security but also for insulation. Many premium home warranty packages recognize their importance and cover repairs or replacements due to regular wear and tear.
Interior doors: These include bedroom, bathroom, and closet doors. Not all warranty plans cover them because they’re less exposed to the elements and potential break-ins. It’s often under a comprehensive or optional plan when they are covered.
Sliding patio doors: As they offer both function and aesthetic appeal, being a bridge between your home’s interior and exterior, certain warranty providers may cover them, especially if they have glass components.
Garage doors: Their mechanical nature and exterior position mean they’re prone to both wear and potential damage. Some warranties may offer coverage for garage doors, but this might be contingent on the door’s mechanism or the type of damage incurred.
Standard vs. optional coverage
Understanding the difference between standard and optional coverage is essential:
Standard coverage: Basic plans often encompass home components, focusing more on primary systems. While some plans might include doors under standard coverage, many might not.
Optional coverage: This allows homeowners to tailor their warranty to their needs. If your warranty doesn’t include doors under standard coverage, there might be an option to add them for an additional fee.
With the diverse offerings in the market, thoroughly research and understand what’s covered under your chosen plan. The fine print includes the exclusions or limitations related to door coverage. Sites that offer insights on home warranty specifics can be instrumental in helping homeowners make informed decisions.
Tips to maintain your doors
While our title revolves around doors, it’s worth noting that windows, too, face common issues. From faulty locks, seals, and sashes, the problems might be many. However, regular maintenance can help prolong the life of both doors and windows.
Inspect seals regularly: The seal around doors (and windows) is vital to energy efficiency. Ensure it’s intact to prevent drafts and increased energy costs.
Lubricate hinges: Regularly lubricating door hinges can prevent squeaky noises and ensure the door functions smoothly.
Clean doors: Especially for exterior doors, cleaning them can prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and contaminants which can degrade the door material over time.
Weather stripping: Install or replace weather stripping to ensure better insulation and longevity of the door.
Regular inspection: It’s good practice to check for any signs of damage, warping, or structural issues, especially after extreme weather conditions.
Home warranties offer a blanket of protection for homeowners against unforeseen repair expenses. And while doors might not always be included in standard plans, many providers offer specialized coverages. Ensuring you understand the ins and outs of your plan is essential. And just as a warranty helps protect your home, regular door maintenance can prolong its life and function. After all, a door does more than just open and close—it’s the gateway to your sanctuary.
