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Gene Hanfling's blinds failed after 20 years; warranty was initially denied.

Manufacturer cited limited coverage and wear; Hanfling disputed.

After media involvement, Hunter Douglas agreed to replace the blinds, resolving the dispute.

SALT LAKE CITY — Gene Hanfling bought a set of blinds for the skylight in his downtown Salt Lake apartment 20 years ago. Then, two months ago, they failed.

"You can see how much the blinds were bowing — right down the center line," Hanfling said as he pointed to the damage. "They weren't even closing properly."

Good thing Hanfling held onto both his limited lifetime warranty statement and the original receipt. But when he called the manufacturer, he said he was told "lifetime" doesn't apply to every part.

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