How to Evaluate an Artificial Turf Warranty
When investing in artificial grass, understanding the warranty is crucial. A well-defined warranty can protect your investment and ensure you get the most out of your turf. This guide will help you evaluate warranties, including details about Smart Turf’s 15/50 warranty, backed by a company with over 50 years of experience.
Key Aspects to Evaluate in a Warranty
Warranty Length and Coverage:
The duration of the warranty is one of the most crucial factors. Most warranties range between 8 to 15 years, depending on the brand and product type. Smart Turf offers a 15-year warranty (excluding Nylon Landscape Turf), which reflects the company’s confidence in its product’s durability and quality.
Company Reputation:
A warranty is only as reliable as the company backing it. A warranty from a reputable company that has been in business for a long time is generally more reliable than one from a newer, less-established brand. Smart Turf is backed by a 50-year-old parent company, highlighting its stability and long-term commitment.
Coverage Specifics:
UV Degradation and Fading: Warranties often cover UV degradation, which prevents fading caused by sun exposure. Smart Turf’s warranty includes protection against UV degradation and excessive fading, which is essential for maintaining a lush and vibrant look over time.
Manufacturing Defects: Most warranties cover defects in manufacturing. For Smart Turf, this covers the first year, ensuring that any initial issues are promptly addressed.
Pro-rated Warranties:
A common practice is to offer pro-rated warranties where coverage diminishes over time. Smart Turf’s warranty decreases by 6.67% annually, meaning the covered amount reduces each year until the end of the 15-year period.
Exclusions:
Warranties typically exclude certain conditions that may damage the turf but are not due to manufacturing defects. Some exclusions include:
- Sun Magnification Damage: Reflections from windows or other surfaces can melt turf, which is not covered.
- Natural Disasters: Damages from events like earthquakes or floods are excluded.
- Wear and Tear: Normal wear, matting, and crushing are not considered defects.
- Improper Installation and Maintenance: Incorrect installation or failure to maintain the turf according to guidelines can void the warranty.
Claim Process:
A clear claims process is vital. Smart Turf requires that claims be submitted in writing and includes conditions such as inspection and verification of the issue by the company.
Limitations of Liability:
Understand the extent of liability. For example, Smart Turf’s liability is limited to the cost of the turf and does not cover installation or labor costs.
Customer Responsibility:
Maintenance responsibilities often fall on the customer to keep the warranty valid. This includes proper cleaning methods and avoiding harmful chemicals.
What Consumers Should Look for in Artificial Grass Warranties
- Check for Pro-rated Terms: A full replacement warranty is rare, so look for how quickly the pro-rated terms reduce the warranty value.
- Review Exclusions Carefully: Ensure you understand what is not For instance, if you live in an area prone to extreme weather or have low-E windows, consider how these exclusions might impact your coverage.
- Installation Requirements: Some warranties require professional installation by certified contractors. DIY installations might void the warranty. Smart Turf’s warranty is does not require professional installation.
- Read the Fine Print: Conditions like providing the original receipt, maintenance records, and evidence of proper care can be required to make a valid claim.
Conclusion
Evaluating an artificial grass warranty involves more than just looking at the years covered. It’s essential to understand what is included, the reputation of the company, the exclusions, and your responsibilities as a homeowner. Smart Turf’s comprehensive 15-year warranty provides valuable protection but, like all warranties, comes with specific conditions and exclusions. Make sure you read and understand your warranty thoroughly to ensure your investment is protected.
For full details on Smart Turf’s warranty, visit Smart Turf Warranty.