Your Warranty Is Not Automatic
Both PGT and ES Windows back their products with strong warranties. But both contain specific requirements and exclusions that can void your coverage entirely — and most homeowners only find out about them after something has already gone wrong.
Here is exactly what each manufacturer requires.
PGT WinGuard: What the Warranty Covers
PGT's warranty structure differs by product line. WinGuard Aluminum carries a 10-year warranty on frames and a limited lifetime warranty on hardware and moving parts. WinGuard Vinyl carries a limited lifetime warranty on frames and hardware. Laminated glass is covered for 10 years. Stress cracks are covered for 1 year from the date of delivery — PGT's documentation notes that stress cracks can result from natural settlement or extreme thermal changes and are not considered manufacturing defects beyond that first year.
PGT also includes a 10-year burglary endorsement on WinGuard Aluminum and Vinyl products. If a locked impact-rated glass pane is broken during a burglary, PGT will reimburse the original homeowner up to the amount of their insurance deductible, capped at $1,000. A police report and proof of purchase must be submitted within 30 days.
The warranty transfers to a subsequent owner for 10 years from the original delivery date — but only if the warranty has not already been voided for other reasons.
What Voids the PGT Warranty — Directly From Their Documentation
PGT's warranty is null and void if harmful solvents are used to clean the frame or sash. Common household cleaners with harsh chemicals qualify. When in doubt, mild soap and water is the answer.
The warranty is null and void if any portion of the product is painted or coated after installation. Repainting window frames to match new exterior paint eliminates warranty coverage on those frames. If you want a specific color, specify it at fabrication — not after.
The warranty is null and void if aftermarket products are applied to the glass — including window films or tints not approved by PGT. This is one of the most common accidental violations. Homeowners add film for UV protection or privacy without realizing it voids their coverage. If additional UV or solar performance is needed, ask about upgraded Low-E glass packages before installation.
The warranty is null and void if any aluminum component comes into direct contact with Alkaline Copper Quaternary treated wood — the preservative treatment standard in pressure-treated deck lumber and exterior framing. ACQ is highly corrosive to aluminum. If your installation involves treated lumber adjacent to aluminum frames, an isolating barrier is required.
PGT also states explicitly in their warranty documentation that caulking is a maintenance responsibility of the owner and is not covered. Cracked or failed perimeter caulking is not a warranty claim — it is yours to maintain.
ES Windows: What the Warranty Covers
ES Windows operates what they call a single source warranty. Because they manufacture their own glass, aluminum extrusions, and finished frames in-house, the warranty covers everything through one channel — the homeowner does not need to deal with separate glass and frame manufacturers for different claims.
Warranty periods vary by product line. Glass and paint are warranted for up to 10 years depending on the product. Movable parts are covered for 25 years. Stress cracks are covered for 3 years — longer than PGT's 1-year stress crack coverage, which is a meaningful difference.
ES Windows requires that all warranty claims be submitted through the original authorized distributor, not directly to the manufacturer. Missing or damaged parts must be reported within 24 hours of delivery to the distributor — not to the end customer. This means your installer needs to inspect product on arrival. Damage discovered after that window closes will not be honored as a warranty claim.
ES Windows publishes product-specific maintenance manuals on their website organized by product family at eswindows.com/product. Following the maintenance manual for your specific product line is part of maintaining valid coverage. ES Windows' guidance specifies cleaning every four months for most installations, and monthly for coastal locations.
The Requirement Both Manufacturers Share
Neither PGT nor ES Windows will cover damage caused by improper installation. PGT states directly that their warranty requires installation according to manufacturer specifications — incorrect fasteners, improper sealing, or non-code-compliant framing can void coverage before the homeowner ever uses the product.
A correctly permitted and inspected installation is your documented proof that the product was installed to specification. This is why working with a licensed contractor who pulls proper permits is not just a legal requirement — it is warranty protection.
Lubrication: Use the Right Product
Both manufacturers require proper hardware maintenance to keep coverage valid. Use 3-IN-1 Dry Lubricant or equivalent dry silicone spray on tracks and roller assemblies. Use white lithium grease on hinges and metal gear assemblies. Use household oil on roto operator metal surfaces. Do not use WD-40 — it is a solvent, not a lubricant, and its use on hardware is inconsistent with manufacturer maintenance requirements.
Register Your Warranty
Both manufacturers offer warranty registration. Do it immediately after installation. Keep your purchase documentation and installation records. If you cannot locate your registration, contact your installer — they should have the records on file.
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