Do Home Warranties Cover Garage Doors?
Entering the world of home warranties often feels like unraveling a complex puzzle, especially for homeowners and prospective home buyers. Picture this – you’re skimming through your policy, ticking off the many items covered, when suddenly a question pops into your mind, “Wait a minute, does this warranty cover my garage door?” If this sounds familiar, you’ve landed in the right place.
Home warranties do usually provide coverage of garage doors under home warranties. Here, we’ll shine a light on the specific elements of your garage door that are protected and those that, unfortunately, are left out.
Are garage doors covered by a home warranty?
The first step to understanding home warranty coverage for garage doors involves diving deep into the specifics. While most home warranties do cover crucial mechanical components of the garage door, not all parts get the same level of coverage.
Included under most warranties are:
Garage Door Springs: These components play a vital role, bearing the tension and stress associated with the regular opening and closing of the door. Due to the constant strain, springs are prone to wear and tear, necessitating periodic replacements, which are generally covered under most home warranties.
Garage Door Opener: This automated device, responsible for the seamless opening and closing of your garage door, is another essential component typically covered under most home warranties. It includes the motor and internal gears, which, subject to frequent use, might require servicing or replacements.
Sensors: Modern garage doors incorporate safety features such as sensors that detect obstructions, preventing the door from closing on an object, person, or vehicle. Typically, home warranties cover the costs of repairing or replacing these sensors.
However, home warranties often do not extend to every part of your garage door. Here’s what is generally excluded:
Door Tracks: These components guide your garage door as it opens and closes. They are vital for the smooth operation of the door, yet they typically don’t receive coverage under most home warranties.
Windows: If your garage door includes windows for an aesthetic appeal, note that the glass is generally not covered under home warranties.
Handles and Aesthetic Elements: While they add a touch of elegance to your garage door, decorative elements such as handles, moldings, or special finishes usually don’t fall under the warranty coverage.
Remote Controls: While the opener mechanism is usually covered, the handheld remotes that many homeowners use for convenience are typically not included in your warranty.
Warranties also generally exclude coverage in certain situations:
Damage due to Negligence or Improper Use: If you have used your garage door improperly or neglected its maintenance, and it gets damaged. Your home warranty will likely not cover the associated repair or replacement costs.
Failure to Perform Routine Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial to the health of your garage door. If you fail to conduct necessary tasks such as lubricating moving parts or testing door balance, and a component fails, your warranty might not cover it.
Remember that it’s always best to review the specific terms and conditions of your home warranty contract to fully understand what is and isn’t covered.
Tips to maintain your garage door
While home warranties can provide a safety net, maintaining the good health of your garage door ultimately rests in your hands. Here are a few practical steps homeowners should consider:
Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your garage door for any signs of wear and tear. Pay special attention to the springs, cables, rollers, and other moving parts.
Lubrication: Keep the moving parts of your garage door well-lubricated. This simple task can help prevent rust and ensure the door operates smoothly.
Cleaning: Clean your garage door regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime, which can affect its performance and longevity.
Professional Maintenance: Engage professionals for routine maintenance and inspections. They can help detect and fix issues before they escalate into costly repairs or replacements.
While most warranties cover essential mechanical components such as the garage door springs and opener, many do not cover other elements like door tracks and aesthetics. To prevent unexpected costs, homeowners should familiarize themselves with the terms of their home warranty and engage in regular maintenance.
Purchasing a home is a significant investment, and safeguarding that investment should always be a priority. Therefore, when considering a home warranty, ensure you understand the breadth of its coverage. If you find your warranty lacking, it might be worthwhile to consider upgrading or seeking a plan more suited to your needs. After all, your peace of mind is priceless.
