limited lifetime warranty

Merit Kitchens (2002) Ltd. (“Merit”) offers the following limited warranty (“Warranty”) for its cabinetry products (“Product”) purchased through an authorized Merit dealer to the residential purchaser of the Product (“Customer”). This Warranty covers defects in material and workmanship for twenty years from the date of delivery to the Customer. Drawer glides and hinges are covered under a lifetime warranty.

During this period, Merit, at its sole discretion, will repair or replace any defective parts in the Product, by:

• Repairing any portion of the Product deemed defective and repairable; or

• Replacing any portion of the Product deemed defective and requiring replacement.

Customer Responsibilities
Apart from Merit’s replacement materials and labor to conduct repairs or replacements, the Customer is responsible for all other associated costs, including, but not limited to, plumbing, cabinetry, drywall, painting, and electrical disconnection and reconnection charges. Should Merit determine that plumbing or electrical systems require disconnection to complete a repair or replacement, the Customer will arrange this disconnection at their expense and will be responsible for reconnection afterward.

If Merit repairs or replaces materials, this Warranty will continue from the original installation date rather than from the date of repair or replacement. Merit’s obligations under this Warranty are limited solely to the repair or replacement of any parts of the Product that prove defective under normal home use and service, as determined solely by Merit.

Warranty Limitations
This Warranty only applies to:

• Products installed in a residence owned and occupied by the Customer as their primary residence, or by a builder, contractor, or developer who purchases and installs the Product in a newly constructed or remodeled residence that will be used as the Customer’s primary residence.

• Merit products used in residential applications within the U.S., Japan, or Canada.

• Cabinets and related products manufactured by Merit and purchased through an authorized Merit dealer.

Exclusions
This Warranty does not cover:

• Natural aging or mellowing of wood products, color variations, or other changes due to light exposure (natural or artificial).

• Countertops, appliances, plumbing fixtures, or any products not manufactured by Merit, or costs associated with the removal or installation of such products.

• Products moved from their original installation location or installed in rental or commercial properties.

• Damage caused by:

  • Chemical abuse: Surface etching from acidic or aggressive chemicals, use of improper cleaning solutions, or failure to follow care guidelines below.

  • Physical abuse: Damage such as chipping, cracking, or scratching due to heavy loads, dropping heavy objects on the countertop or cabinetry, standing on the countertop, house settling, structural movement, fire, tornadoes, vandalism, excessive heat, uneven weather exposure, job site conditions, or abuse by tradespeople.

  • Temperature, moisture or humidity extremes.

  • Acts of God, such as fire, flood, or external forces beyond Merit’s control.

  • Ordinary wear and tear.

Care and Cleaning Recommendations
To maintain the appearance and longevity of your Merit cabinetry, follow these care and cleaning guidelines:

• General Cleaning: Use a soft cloth moistened with a mild dish detergent and warm water solution. Avoid excessive water and never use ammonia-containing products, as they can dull or damage the finish. Immediately after cleaning, dry cabinetry with a soft, dry cloth.

• Wood Finishes: Merit’s clear topcoat provides a durable, knock-proof surface that does not require oil or wax applications to maintain its appearance. However, avoid exposing cabinetry to excessive moisture, steam, and heat, which can affect the wood over time.

• Laminate Finishes: For laminate finishes, clean with a soft cloth and a mild glass cleaner to remove grease buildup. Avoid soap-based cleaners to prevent streaking, and on gloss laminates, use a soft cloth instead of paper towels to avoid scratches. Protect laminate cabinetry from heat and steam exposure, which can damage the surface.

• What to Avoid:

  • Do not use sponges or dishcloths, as they may carry particles that could scratch or damage the cabinetry.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or scouring pads, as they can damage the cabinet surface.

  • Do not use silicone-based products, which may create buildup.

  • Prevent large swings in humidity and temperature around the cabinetry to preserve finish quality.

• Final Recommendations: Clean any splatters immediately, as grease splashes, food stains, and water spills can be difficult to remove if left on the cabinetry for too long. Clean cabinets regularly to keep them looking beautiful. Minimize exposure to moisture, heat, and sunlight, as prolonged exposure can damage finishes or cause discoloration. Use touch-up kits to repair any scratches or nicks that may occur with regular wear and tear.

Filing a Warranty Claim
To file a warranty claim, contact Marit Design LLC, your cabinetry dealer, at marit@marit-design.com. Please include the order number, a description of the defect, and proof of purchase showing the purchase and installation dates. Marit Design LLC will assist with the warranty claim process and coordinate with Merit for inspection or further action.

Non-Transferability
This Warranty is non-transferable and terminates if ownership of the premises where the Product was installed changes from the Customer at the date of Product delivery. This Warranty is governed by the laws of British Columbia.