Let’s break it down.
Let’s break it down.
A real warranty should spell out:
- What’s covered (peeling, cracking, fading, etc.)
- What’s not (moisture damage, DIY touch-ups, etc.)
- How long it lasts
- What happens when you call them back
But many painter warranties? They’re just vibes .
But many painter warranties? They’re just vibes.
Stuff like:
“We stand by our work.” “If anything goes wrong, we’ll make it right.” “You’re good for a year.”
Cool. But is that written down? Is there an actual warranty agreement, or is it just something they’re saying in a text or on the estimate?
Because when the paint starts bubbling 6 months later—and they’re suddenly not returning your call—that “promise” doesn’t mean a thing.
Here’s What a Real Warranty Looks Like
Here’s What a Real Warranty Looks Like
A good contractor doesn’t just talk about their warranty. They show you what it covers—in writing. Before you sign anything.
Look for:
- ✅ A written document, not just verbal promises
- ✅ Clear start and end dates (2 years, 3 years, etc.)
- ✅ Details on what issues qualify (not just “any problem”)
- ✅ The process to request a fix (call, email, photo review, etc.)
- ✅ Timeline on response (within 5–10 days, not “when we get to it”)
Bonus points if they mention product warranties too (like if your Sherwin-Williams paint comes with a manufacturer guarantee).
Red Flags to Watch For
If you hear or see any of this—raise an eyebrow:
- “We’ve never had anyone need it.” (Translation: We’ve never written one down, and don’t plan to start now.)
- “We do this job right—you won’t need a warranty.” (Okay, but stuff happens. That’s the whole point.)
“We just paint—if there’s an issue, it’s probably the product.” (They’re already shifting blame, and the job hasn’t even started.)
Why This Matters More Than You Think
Why This Matters More Than You Think
Painting feels like a short-term project—but it’s something you’ll live with every single day.
And if there’s a problem down the line, you don’t want to be tracking down a flaky painter, re-explaining your job, or trying to get someone back out who’s already moved on to 20 other houses.
A real pro wants your job to last—and they’re not afraid to put that in writing.
Final Thought
Final Thought
Warranties are like parachutes—you don’t need them until you really need them. And when that day comes, a verbal promise won’t help.
So ask for the warranty. Ask what’s covered. And if they hesitate? Trust your gut.
And hey—if you’d rather skip the nonsense and only talk to painters who stand by their work, we’ve already vetted them for you.
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