Vinyl Warranties

These are extremely general guidelines. Not all these warranties will apply to every product. Warranty terms vary from product to product, and you should always check to find your product's specific warranty information.

Rip / Tear / Gouge
Guarantees that the vinyl won't be ripped apart, torn open, or have holes gouged into it through normal household use. This does not cover any damage arising from the installation, intentional damage done or other rough treatment, like kids or pets damaging the floor, dragging furniture or other heavy objects across it without the proper safety precautions, vacuum or beater bar damage, fire damage and any other damage not caused by normal, everyday traffic.
 
Indention
Guarantees that the vinyl won't experience permanent indentations from normal household usage. This typically covers foot traffic and furniture that has been covered with appropriate flooring protectors. Does not usually cover damage done from installation, rough treatment or intentional abuse.
 
Discoloration / Moisture Damage
Most manufacturers warrant against discoloration or staining that comes from mold and mildew damage or underlayment panels. This covers most normal damage from everyday usage, though damage from flooding, water leaks and other causes of extreme water damage is not covered. Additionally, this warranty almost always only covers one replacement. If the replacement floor is damaged, they won't replace it again. Some manufacturers also warrant against discoloration and fading from sunlight or heat, but others do not. Be sure to check whether fading from light or heat is covered by your product's warranty.
 
Stains / Scuffs
This warranty says that the product will not experience permanent discoloration from one or more of the following: common household stains, outdoor stains like asphalt, permanent scuff marks from shoes, yellowing from mats backed with latex or rubber. Specific product warranties may vary, so check which ones your product covers. Generally, this warranty will not include floors that have not been cared for as instructed by the manufacturer or damage from strong dyes, chemicals or fertilizer. Other exceptions may apply.
 
Wear
Guarantees that the floor will not wear through from normal foot traffic. The amount of traffic warranted by the manufacturer will vary, check for your product's wear rating.
 
Manufacturing Defects
Warrants against any flaws found in the product before installation. Does not usually cover small variations in color or pattern, and does not cover floors that have been installed. Make sure a qualified professional checks your floor for any and all defects before installation begins.