CajunGal2, First of all I would like to apologize for any inconvenience this has caused you. We are always striving to exceed our customers' expectations. Bemis Manufacturing offers a one year manufacturing defect warranty that is handled through the location of purchase. We have a contract agreement with the Home Depot corporate office in which they are to replace the seat when within one year. Please return your defective seat to the store for immediate warranty replacement. Place your item in a clear plastic bag. The retail store does not have to keep your used seat in the store or handle it in any way. They will simply view the damage and give you a new warranty seat sending your broken one home with you. If you encounter any difficulties while at the store, please have the store associate contact us at 1.888.722.6488 reference CASE# 117534. If it was the hardware that became defected, we can certainly assist you at the 888.722.6488 number. Kindest Regards, Bemis Customer Service.