Countertops Standards
Coverage Summary
| Issue | Covered | Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chips/cracks/scratches at orientation | ✓ | At closing | Listed on orientation form |
| Seam gaps >1/16" | ✓ | 1 year | Not due to homeowner damage |
| Seam differential >1/16" | ✓ | 1 year | Unevenness at seams |
| Cracks from installation defect | ✓ | 1 year | Not from impact |
| Visible seams | ✗ | — | Normal, not a defect |
| Separation from walls/backsplash | ✗ | — | Normal shrinkage; caulk maintenance |
| Separation around sinks | ✗ | — | Normal shrinkage; caulk maintenance |
| Natural stone color variations | ✗ | — | Natural characteristic |
| Natural stone veining/pits/fissures | ✗ | — | Natural characteristic |
| Damage from unsupported weight | ✗ | — | Don't apply heavy weight over unsupported spans |
Performance Standards
Orientation Inspection
Standard: All countertops must be installed without defects at closing.
Coverage: Classic Homes will repair only the noticeable surface damage such as chips, cracks, and scratches listed on the New Home Presentation or Welcome Home Orientation form.
Seams
Standard: Countertops will have one or more discernible seams. Gaps or differential at seams should not exceed 1/16 inch.
Coverage: During the first year, Classic Homes will repair gaps or differential at seams that exceed 1/16 inch when not due to homeowner damage.
Separations
Standard: Separation of countertops from walls, backsplash, and around sinks is expected due to normal shrinkage of materials.
Coverage: Caulking is homeowner maintenance and is excluded from the Limited Warranty.
Natural Stone Characteristics
Standard: All natural stone colors are species of natural materials. Coloration, veining, and texture (pits, fissures, fragmentation) will vary from samples.
Coverage: These variations are part of the finished product and are not defects. Classic Homes is not responsible for cracking or breakage from heavy weight or force over unsupported spans.
What's Not Covered
The following are excluded from warranty coverage:
- Visible seams - Seams are normal and expected
- Separation from walls/backsplash - Normal shrinkage requiring caulk maintenance
- Separation around sinks - Normal shrinkage requiring caulk maintenance
- Natural stone color variations - Natural characteristics
- Natural stone veining, pits, and fissures - Natural characteristics
- Damage from unsupported weight - Don't apply heavy weight or force over unsupported spans
- Heat or cutting damage - Use trivets and cutting boards
- Damage from rubber drain mats - Can trap moisture and cause warping/blistering
Filing a Claim
If you believe you have a warranty issue:
- Review the Use & Care Guide for troubleshooting steps
- Gather information:
- Location of affected countertop
- Measurement of seam gap or differential
- Photos if possible
- Request Service
Related Standards
Care Tips: See Countertops Use & Care for maintenance and troubleshooting guidance.