Understanding Different Types of Pool Warranties

 When you hear that a fiberglass pool comes with a warranty or guarantee, this probably inspires a great sense of confidence. Wow, you might think, I’m covered in case anything goes wrong! Unfortunately however, warranties aren’t quite as simple as they may seem. Typically, there are actually several different types of warranties. You may be offered only one type, or you may be offered several types. In any event, though, it’s important to know exactly what your warranty covers. That way, you won’t be in for an ugly surprise if something eventually goes wrong with your pool while still under warranty.  

The Manufacturer’s Warranty  

First, almost every pool comes with a warranty from the manufacturer, which is designed to protect both the pool company and you. This warranty typically includes a structural warranty, which protects you in the event that the pool was constructed poorly or had other issues that were caused by the manufacturer. This warranty is very long—sometimes extending to a lifetime—and is usually the warranty pool companies are referring to when they tell you about a pool’s warranty. Most manufacturer’s warranties also include coverage for the gelcoat finish of the pool and protect you if issues develop there.  

The Equipment Warranty  

Your pool is a major investment, but so is your pool equipment. Thus, it’s not uncommon to be offered a warranty on the pool filter, pump, chlorinators, heaters, and more. This warranty will vary depending on who manufactured the equipment, but you can expect at least a year of protection with any major equipment purchase.  

The Workmanship Warranty  

Finally, the company that installs your pool should offer a workmanship warranty. This protects you if the company makes some kind of error in the installation process that later leads to leaks, cracking, or other problems. You absolutely want to go with a company that offers this warranty since even the very best pool builders can sometimes make mistakes, and you shouldn’t be the one to pay for them.  

As you can see, pool warranties are a bit more complex than most people realize. But, by  more fully understanding them, you can ensure, before you buy, that the warranties you’re being offered are actually as good and comprehensive as they sound!