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Warranty Manual

1. WELCOME TO OUR FAMILY OF PROUD HOMEOWNERS We are pleased you recognized the quality and value in our homes and purchased a Regent Home Our goal is to deliver a home to you that at the time of closing will meet all of your expectations We take great pride in the home we built for you and in the service we provide even after the closing Contained in this manual will be the Regent Homes Limited Warranty Builder s Structural Warranty and instructions on any necessary procedures you will need to follow Individual Manufacturer s Warranties can be found in the kitchen of your new home If you should have any questions or need assistance please call any of the individuals listed below We will be happy to assist you Again congratulations on becoming a new Regent Homeowner Sincerely Regent Homes Staff LIMITED WARRANTY Regent Homes warrants to the original buyer that the original construction of the homes will be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one 1 year after the closing date The warranty does not cover maintenance items or damage This warranty is not a maintenance contract and is not transferable Regent Homes warrants that the original installation of the roof plumbing electric windows heating and air conditioning system will be free from defects in workmanship which appear at any time within one 1 year after the closing date Regent Homes warrants that the original construction of
2. 3 Check the electrical disconnect switch located on or near the air handler and reset 4 Check the exterior disconnect switch located outside the home near the compressor and reset B Air Filter The air filter located adjacent to the air handler unit or in the return air grille helps reduce the flow of dust into the air As the filter collects dust it reduces the system s efficiency and must be either cleaned or replaced Your Builder has installed one air filter in each filter location and will at the walk through demonstrate proper filter installation cleaning and replacement procedures After that the regular cleaning replacement and maintenance of air filters is the homeowner s responsibility Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Monthly filter cleaning or replacement will provide cleaner air improve airflow and help reduce utilities costs To remove clean or replace filters turn the air conditioner furnace and fan off using the thermostat control then carefully remove the old filter and clean or insert a new one Replacement filters are available through hardware and home supply stores Make sure to buy the correct size for replacement C Thermostat The thermostat controls the entire heating and cooling system The thermostat provides a fan switch to circulate the air when neither heating nor cooling is needed To maximize energy efficiency and minimize utility bills set the thermostat to a comfortable lev
3. Check and replace or clean filters every month Clogged filter mean higher operating costs b Don t try to maintain different temperatures in different rooms by totally closing duct outlets you will unbalance the system and reduce its efficiency c Use bath and kitchen exhaust fans sparingly when air conditioning is operating d To reduce the time your air conditioner must be on do heat producing chores such as baking and dish washing during the cooler hours in the morning or evening roa rb 9 Check weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows for leaks Shade your home with trees wherever possible Keep all windows and exterior doors shut when air conditioner is on Do not short cycle your compressor by moving the thermostat up and down too rapidly Set your temperature slowly and leave it for at least 5 minutes before resetting i Incase of outside temperatures exceeding 95 F a differential of 15 F is acceptable SOLUTIONS TO COMMON HEATING amp AIR CONDITIONING PROBLEMS Problem Likely Cause Solution Air temperature in different rooms or floors is uneven Air distribution unbalanced Registers are obstructed Adjust air registers Clear obstructions away from registers Reduced airflow or Dirty air filter Clean or replace air filters excessive dust on vents and as necessary registers Indicator light on Disconnect breaker at panel Check disconnect breaker th
4. ISSUE PROBABLE CAUSE ANSWER Window binds or is difficult Broken window balance Replace balancer to open Window binds or is difficult Paint or dirt on jambs Clean jamb and spray with to open silicone Window binds or is difficult Weak window balancer Replace balancer or adjust to open tension rod Window will not slide up or down Tension rod jammed Call the window company for an inspection Window will not lock properly Debris in track or window not aligned properly Clean track or check alignment at middle when closing Condensation on inside surface of window High humidity inside the home Reduce humidity with a dehumidifier heat or A C 67 Glossary of Construction Terms 68 Home Buyers Glossary of Construction Terms Aerator A small removable extension at the tip of a sink faucet that mixes streaming water with air to reduce splashing and conserve water Air Hammer A banging noise in plumbing pipes caused by air infiltration Airway The space between roof insulation and roof boards which allows for movement of air Alkali A soluble mineral salt of mixture of salts capable of neutralizing acids Anchor Bolts Bolts that secure a wooden sill plate to a concrete or masonry floor or wall Asphalt A residue from evaporated petroleum insoluble in water but soluble in gasoline Melts when heated Attic Ventilators Screened openings provided to ventila
5. Interior wall construction begins with the placement of studs set vertically at specified intervals Then the drywall is screwed and or nailed to the studs Drywall Drywall is screwed to the studs of the ceiling and wall surfaces The seams where sheets of drywall come together are taped spackled with a joint compound allowed to dry and then sanded to prepare them for finishing The generally acceptable building standards are that slight imperfections such as nail pops seam lines and cracks not exceeding 1 8 are common in gypsum wallboard installations However obvious defects or poor workmanship resulting in excess compound in joints trowel marks and cracked corner beads are not acceptable and must be noted prior to closing Both nail pops and small drywall cracks are simple to repair Drywall Nail Pops and Crack Repair Instructions 1 Reset the protruding nail slightly into the gypsum board surface or remove it entirely Place another drywall nail two inches above or below the popped nail and gently hammer it slightly below the paper surface Cover the area with spackling compound allow to dry sand smooth and then refinish the surface 2 For drywall joint cracks press a small V shaped indentation using the back of a putty knife along the length of the crack about 1 8 of an inch deep and 1 8 of an inch wide Spackle sand and refinish as with nail pops 3 To prevent cracks wider than 4 from re opening first a
6. Keep excessive weight such as sand lumber and moving vans off driveway to prevent cracking Rust and grease stains are a homeowner s responsibility 16 CONDENSATION MILDEW Introduction Condensation or the appearance of moisture that occurs when warm moist air comes into contact with a colder surface is most prevalent in new homes especially during the first year This is caused by the large quantities of water used to build the new home from the concrete foundations to the paint on the walls As this water evaporates and the drying out process occurs the moisture takes the form of condensation on interior windows Another source of indoor humidity is everyday water usage For example a family of four doing laundry bathing and using the dishwasher puts approximately 2 to 5 gallons of moisture into the air everyday Window condensation is produced by conditions beyond your builder s control Mildew fungus that spreads through the air in microscopic spores They love moisture and feed on surfaces or dirt On siding they look like a layer of dirt Cleaning mildew from your home is your responsibility Solutions that remove mildew are available from local paint or home improvement stores Wear protective eyewear and rubber gloves for this task the chemicals that remove mildew may be unfriendly to humans Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Ventilation Proper ventilation is the safe and steady way to reduce indoo
7. affect the integrity of the concrete Any attempt to repair chips or cracks in concrete will result in product and color variation Color variations in concrete are a common occurrence and are beyond the control of the builder or sub contractor Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Clean concrete with a solution of five tablespoons of baking soda to a gallon of water Before using the cleaning solution wet the floor with clear water and loosen dirt with a steel brush or scraping blade A concrete sealer may be applied to the floor following the manufacturer s directions approximately six months after you move in This will make it easier to clean and will reduce concrete dusting Note Use of concrete sealer may make the floor slippery when wet 15 Driveway Sidewalks Patios Porches Steps and Stoops In most cases exterior concrete cracks are due to expansion and contraction because of temperature variations soil movement and slight home settlement Driveways are not designed to handle the extreme weight of dual axle and dual wheel vehicles Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Lawn fertilizer left on the driveway sidewalk and patios will stain the concrete and cause rust spots This can be prevented by immediately hosing off the driveway sidewalk or patio after applying fertilizer Water used to irrigate lawns may also cause driveway sidewalk and patio staining and mildew therefore continuous contact should be avoided
8. Adjust keepers on backside of the door Bi fold door leaves the track Unusual handling of door Reinstall door inserting wheels at top of the door track Sliding glass door sticking or hard to operate Bottom rollers out of adjustment Adjust and spray with silicone Sliding glass door will not lock Latch out of adjustment Adjust the locking latch Entry door does not latch Tight weather strip or slight door movement Adjust weather stripping or keeper Hot or cold air coming in Threshold out of adjustment Adjust threshold around exterior door Water infiltration at door Threshold not snug at Adjust threshold bottom of door Garage door not operating properly Out of adjustment Call authorized repairman Can see light around entry Loose weather strip or Adjust weather strip or door or garage service door sweep sweep to ensure tighter fit Remote garage door opener Weak or dead batteries Replace batteries Reset not operating Check circuit breaker circuit breaker Water in sliding glass door track Debris in track blocking weep holes Clean out the track of any debris 22 DOOR HARDWARE LOCKS HINGES KEYS Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines The brass door locks door handles hinges and stoppers used throughout the home are exposed to both inside and outside elements pollution extreme elements and common everyday use This may cause them to
9. area is dry apply fresh caulking to fill the vacant space then smooth out the finish with a wet finger H Interior Faucets Interior faucets are either single lever faucets or washer faucets Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Single Lever Faucets The single lever kitchen and bath faucet are low maintenance washerless faucets Should the cartridge ever need to be replaced turn off the water supply under the sink remove the handle assembly and pull the cartridge out Take the cartridge to a local plumbing supplier and match accordingly being sure to follow installation instructions Chrome Faucets Chrome faucets should be cleaned with a soft damp cloth and a commercially accepted cleaner Dry the faucet with a soft cloth Never use an abrasive or ammonia based cleaner 61 Washer Faucets A washer faucet has a shut off feature that requires light closing pressure to stop the flow of water Do not apply too much pressure since washers can be damaged Faucet Aerators Screened aerators screw into the spout of a faucet to add air to the flowing water which reduces splashing Aerators are easy to remove for periodic cleaning This should be done every 3 4 months Washer Replacement Dripping faucets can dramatically increase water bills and represent the loss of a valuable natural resource Over time all washers will wear out and must be replaced Neglecting to change washers may cause damage to the valve seat or to the entire f
10. breaker to full OFF then back to full ON position If this does not reset the breaker or if the breaker continues to trip do not continue resetting the breaker as this can damage the panel box wiring or the appliance that is controls Call a licensed electrical contractor for a service inspection Overloaded circuits can also cause tripping This occurs when too many appliances are used on one circuit To reduce the load remove plugs of appliances that may cause the overloading then reset the breaker as described above If you install a microwave oven or other appliances that require large electrical loads you may need a licensed Electrical Contractor to add additional wiring to accommodate the load Outlets and Wall Switches If an electrical outlet does not work check first to make sure that the outlet is not controlled by a wall switch If the outlet still does not operate contact an electrical contractor Note Do not plug a refrigerator or freezer into a GFCI controlled outlet There is a good chance that if the GFCI trips your food will be ruined before you notice the problem Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters GFCI electric outlets help to prevent electrical shock and are installed in kitchens bathrooms garages and exterior areas where water may be present GFCI receptacles are sensitive to power surges and interrupt power under certain conditions to prevent injury Do not plug refrigerators or freezers into GFCI out
11. discolor or become pitted The manufacturer does not guarantee the finish of any product Clean these with a damp cloth and do not use abrasive cleansers or solvents Periodic polishing following the manufacturer s recommendations will help maintain the original luster and appearance Do not use brass polish on lacquered brass parts or fixtures Locks Lubricate door locks with graphite or other waterproof lubricant Avoid oil as it will gum up Failure to Latch If a door will not latch because of minor settling you can correct this by making a new opening in the jamb for the latch plate remortising and raising or lowering the place accordingly Hinges You can remedy a squeaky door hinge by removing the hinge pin and applying a silicone lubricant to it Avoid using oil as it can gum up or attract dirt Graphite works well as a lubricant but can create a gray smudge on the door or floor covering beneath the hinge if too much is applied Keys Keep a duplicate privacy lock key where children cannot reach it in the event a youngster locks him herself in a room The top edge of the door casing is often used as a place to keep the key A small screwdriver or similarly shaped device can open some types of privacy locks Your interior door locksets can work loose over time If you notice excessive play in the lockset we recommend tightening the screws located in the cover plate If the doorknob has become inoperative it could mean that the
12. ele E Exterior Compressor Condensing Unit Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Keep the condensing unit compressor level and keep the area surrounding the unit clear to allow unimpaired airflow Do not plan bushes too close to the unit and be careful that dirt leaves and grass clippings are cleared away For a thorough cleaning contact an HVAC Contractor Do no build a deck around or over the compressor unless there is an 18 clearance on the sides and a 6 foot minimum clearance on top F Condensate Control Dehumidification is part of the function of your air conditioning system The moisture removed from the air is condensed into water and is then referred to as condensate The condensate forms and it collected on the evaporator coil which is located in the air handling unit except on one piece package units The condensate drain removes the water Regular maintenance by the A C contractor of the drain pan and line should be performed to control algae build up and eliminate water leaks Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Install algae tablets in the condensate drain pan regularly Flush condensate drain pan regularly Flush condensate drain lines regularly Drains should be flushed from the inside of the house towards the outside Never open the air handling unit without first disconnecting the power Algae tablets are available through your air conditioning contractor or home improvement center Helpful Hints a
13. form a wall pier buttress or similar mass Mastic A construction adhesive that is thick and waterproof Used on roofs Moldings Shaped strips of ornamental wood used around doors and windows Also used for base molding tile molding as chair rails and for exterior area molding Moldings finish the junction of different materials or shapes Nail Pops Nails that come loose from a stud and push joint compound up Caused by normal wood shrinkage and home settlement Pointing The filling and finishing of broken mortar and stone cement masonry joints Ponding The collection of water on driveways walkways or lawns Ponding for excessive periods of time is indicative of grading problems Rafter One of a series of structural members of a roof designed to support roof loads The rafters of a flat roof are sometimes called roof joists Resilient Flooring Vinyl flooring used in areas such as kitchens halls bathrooms and laundry rooms It is capable of withstanding shock without permanent deformation Ridge Vent An open vent system located along roof peaks which in conjunction with soffit vents creates ventilation through the passage of natural air Roof Sheathing Boards or sheet material fastened to roof rafters on which the shingles or other roof covering is laid 12 Scaling In concrete the breaking away of the top surface of the concrete caused by a freeze thaw cycle In painting the flaking
14. installed to maintain consistent room temperatures Direct sunlight entering the house will increase the temperature in the affected area and will also fade furnishings and carpet If you come home at 5 30 p m on a day when the temperature has reached 90 degrees and set your thermostat to 75 degrees the air conditioning unit will being cooling but will take a long time to reach the desired temperature At 5 30 p m the air conditioning unit will start cooling the air but the walls carpet and furniture release heat and nullify this cooling It may take hours before the air conditioning unit has cooled the walls carpet and furniture Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Service Contract When there is heavy demand on your HVAC system we encourage homeowners to take advantage of the extended annual service contract that is available from your air conditioner supplier This contract typically provides seasonal check ups of the heating and cooling components plus periodic cleaning the advantage being that scheduled service may reduce system failure by preventing problems before they occur Before calling for Service 1 Check to see that the thermostat is properly set 2 Check the circuit breaker in the panel box If tripped reset by switching the breaker to full OFF the fully back to the ON position If the circuit breaker will not reset contact the HVAC Contractor See Circuit Breakers in the Electrical System Section
15. interior mechanism has slipped out of place Remove the knob realign the interior mechanism reset the knob and then tighten the exterior screws Should a lock be hard to operate apply graphite lubricant to the keyhole and lock mechanism This will usually help the lock to operate more smoothly 23 CABLE T V SYSTEM Introduction Homeowner s Responsibility The homeowner is responsible for contacting the local cable company for the initial hook up Roof antennas and or satellite signal receiving dishes are not allowed in some communities and you should check with your Homeowner s Association if applicable before proceeding with any installation 24 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Introduction The electrical system in your home is designed for safe trouble free service and meets both local and national electrical code requirements Any additional alteration or modification to the original electrical system installation will void all applicable warranties Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Electrical Safety Cautions Do it yourself electrical wiring is dangerous Improper electrical wiring is dangerous Improper electrical repairs can endanger the lives of your family and jeopardize your homeowner s insurance in the event of a fire or electrical injury Always use a licensed electrician to make electrical repairs adjustments and additions Electrical Storm Caution It is recommended that you unplug telev
16. or peeling away of paint Sheathing The structural covering usually wood boards or plywood used over studs or rafters of a structure Structural building board is normally used only as wall sheathing Shingles Roof covering of asphalt asbestos wood tile slate or other material cut to stock lengths widths and thicknesses Siding The finish covering the outside walls of a frame building whether made of horizontal weatherboards vertical boards with battens shingles or other material Sill The lowest member of the frame of a structure resting on the foundation and supporting the floor joists or the uprights of a wall The member forming the lower side of an opening as a doorsill or windowsill Sill Plates A support member laid on the top of the foundation wall that serves as a base for the wall framing Silicone A synthetic lubricating compound with high resistance to temperature change and water When added to caulking it extends elasticity properties and increases the life of the caulking Soffit Usually the underside of an overhanging cornice or roof Soffit Vent A vent located under the ceiling of a roof overhang Spackle See joint compound Spalling Flaking or chipping of stone or other masonry material Similar to scaling but the chips and flakes are larger Stud One of a series of slender wood or metal vertical structural members placed as supporting elements in walls a
17. roots have sufficiently knitted with the underlying soil A lawn that is properly watered and fertilized has fewer problems with weeds and disease Telling you how much water to apply and how often would be simple if there were set rules for every situation But too many variables are possible The water requirements of your lawn depend on a number of things the type of soil you have seasonal temperatures wind velocity humidity the frequency of rain the type of grass 48 and maintenance practices By combining these guidelines with your own watering experience and knowledge of the climate in your area you can develop a good watering program for your lawn How often to water The answer to this question is simply when it needs it However water shrubs once per week in summertime Water your lawn when the soil begins to dry out before the grass wilts When a lawn wilts grass blades either roll or fold exposing the bottoms of the blades At this stage the lawn color appears to change from a bright green to a dull blue green or smoky color You are actually seeing the bottoms of the wilted blades which are grayer than the tops This first occurs in the most drought prone spots especially beneath trees Another signal of the need for water is the loss of resilience the ability of a lawn to bounce back into shape Take a walk across your lawn Do the impressions of your footprints remain visible for more than a few seconds If the answe
18. shrink separate and deteriorate This will cause the caulking to pull away from surfaces and create areas for water and air to infiltrate This should be monitored constantly because moisture can work its way behind wood trim or siding and cause rotting Pay particular attention to the caulking at doors and windows If separation of the caulking occurs it can result in leaks When re caulking on the exterior use a product that paint will adhere to Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Changes in temperature and humidity cause all building materials to expand and contract Dissimilar materials expand or contract at different rates This movement results in separation between materials particularly dissimilar ones You will see the effects in small cracks in drywall and in paint especially where moldings meet drywall at mitered corners and where tile grout meets tub or sink While this can alarm an uninformed homeowner it is normal Shrinkage of the wood members of your home is inevitable and occurs in every new home Although this is most notable during the first year it may continue beyond that time In most cases caulk and paint are all that you need to conceal this minor evidence of a natural phenomenon Even though properly installed caulking shrinks and cracks Maintenance of caulking is your responsibility Acrylic Latex with Silicone Caulk An all purpose caulk that is mildew resistant flexible and paintable Latex Caulk Latex
19. shrinkage can result in separation at joints of trim pieces You can usually correct this with caulking and touch up painting When re nailing baseboards drive in another nail close to but not exactly in the existing nail hole Fill the old nail hole with putty and touch up with paint as needed If the base shoe small trim between base molding and the floor appears to be lifting from the floor this is probably due to slight shrinkage of the floor joists below Again you can correct this condition by removing the old nails and re nailing You may prefer to wait until after the first heating season to make any needed repairs 46 LANDSCAPING GRADING LAWN amp SHRUBS Introduction Landscaping plans are generally designed by a landscape architect and approved by local officials The home may be part of the entire communities landscape master plan and therefore cannot be individually modified Check with your builder before doing any extensive landscaping changes A Grading The drainage plan for your community was designed by engineers and approved by the various authorities having jurisdiction Storm water management is a critical part of the community design The yard is carefully graded to direct storm water away from the house into areas where it can soak away or eventually flow into the community storm water drainage system After heavy rain it is normal to see significant areas of standing water This is a del
20. sunlight Close window coverings to reduce excessive sun Carpet looks matted on Dirty carpet or insufficient Follow manufacturer s stairs and high traffic areas vacuuming guidelines Carpet fuzzing Normal for new carpet Vacuum Resilient or vinyl floor Normal No repair required looks dull Cuts or burns on resilient Accidents Contact Flooring Contractor floors for repairs Nail or staple pops up under Settlement Gently re set nail or staple vinyl or resilient floors Yellow or purple areas in resilient floors Moisture problem or rubber backed floor mats Investigate moisture problem Do not use rubber backed mats Caulk cracks around vinyl Caulk shrinkage and Re caulk gaps with flexible floors settlement caulking Dents in vinyl resilient or Objects dropped heavy Follow manufacturer s hardwood floors furniture or high heel shoes guidelines Fine scratches white splotches or stains on hardwood floors Normal wear furniture scratches and spills Follow manufacturer s guidelines Grout cracks along baseboards Normal expansion and contraction Re grout cracks Grout staining Liquid spills and grease from food Follow manufacturer s guidelines 41 FRAMING amp CARPENTRY Wall Framing Wood and or metal studs are set vertically on 16 or 24 inch centers Steel studs are primarily used in non load bearing walls Roof Framing Roof fr
21. the roof foundation floors and walls of the home will be free from structural defects which significantly affect the load bearing functions of the defective component which defects appear at any time within one 1 year after the date of closing Appliances fixtures equipment and other components included in the home will be covered by separate written warranties of the manufacturers or suppliers of those items manufacturer s warranty Regent Homes hereby assigns all of those obligations of the manufacturer s warranties After closing date any defects in such items become the obligation of the manufacturers or suppliers of those components Examples include but not limited to refrigerator range dishwasher washer dryer garbage disposal water heater heat pump air conditioner furnace smoke detector garage door opener etc EXCLUSIONS FROM REGENT HOMES WARRANTY COVERAGE As covered in your Regent Home Acceptance Walk the following are warranty exclusions Warranty does not cover conditions or damage caused by an act of God or Mother Nature 1 Deficiencies or defects resulting from riot civil commotion an act of God including but not limited to rot insect damage fire explosion smoke water escape windstorm mudslide hail lightening falling trees aircraft vehicles flood earthquake volcanic eruption hurricane tornado or change in the level of underground water table 2 All landscaping including but not limit
22. they mat blocking light from grass Alternate mowing patterns Mowing the same direction each time tends to compact the soil and cause wear patterns C New Shrub and Tree Care A professional landscape designer has planned the landscaping around your home All trees and shrubs are nursery grown and a landscape contractor handled the initial planting The homeowner is responsible for maintaining the new plantings The type of tree or shrub will dictate the specific care needed check with your local gardening center Caution Do not remove or transplant trees or shrubs from their original locations 49 Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Watering It is extremely important that new plants and trees be watered once a day for the first month for one to three minutes on shrubs and fifteen to twenty minutes on trees Fertilizing Plants should be fertilized on a regular basis Contact a lawn care specialist for proper maintenance guidelines Trimming Hedges and plants should be trimmed on a monthly basis to encourage growth and conformity to the intended design TYPICAL ANSWERS TO LANDSCAPING ISSUES ISSUES PROBABLE CAUSE ANSWER Tips of grass blades are frayed or turning tan Dull mower blades Sharpen or replace blades Gaps or holes in grass Insufficient watering Fill gaps with seed and soil Water properly Grass turning yellow Lack of fertilizer Fertilize following manufacturer s dire
23. water at the correct level The float should be free and not rub the side of the tank or any other parts Also check the chain on the flush handle If it is too tight it will prevent the rubber stopper at the bottom of the tank from sealing resulting in running water G Bathtubs Showers amp Tub Shower Combinations Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Cleaning Clean porcelain on steel bathtubs cultured marble tubs and sinks fiberglass showers and tub shower combinations and shower stall floors with warm water and a non abrasive cleanser Clean glass shower doors with a commercial glass cleaner Check bathtub stoppers and shower floor drain grates for hair accumulation Do not use ammonia based cleaners Gel Gloss is recommended for polishing cultured marble Do not step into a bathtub or tub shower with shoes one Gritty particles adhere to your shoe soles and will scratch the finish Re Caulking of the Tubs and Showers Over time cracks and separations between tub or shower stall and wall surfaces or bathroom floors will appear Maintaining these areas is critical since excessive moisture can severely damage underlying materials It will be necessary to re apply a tub and tile caulk when the previous caulking has dried out or eroded To re caulk the area use a tub and tile caulk available in local hardware stores Do not use a clear silicone caulk as it yellows with age Begin by removing the old caulk and cleaning the area Once the
24. EGENT HOMES A D R Horton Company 8001 Arrowridge Blvd Charlotte NC 28273 704 377 2006 DATE O 30 Day Warranty List O 11 Month Warranty List O Warranty Item See your Acceptance Walk List Review the list of items that Are Not covered under warranty DATE OF CLOSING LOT NO COMMUNITY NAME OF HOMEOWNER ADDRESS oO HOME PHONE BEST TIME TO CALL WORK PHONE THE HOMEOWNER NEEDS TO BE PRESENT IN ORDER FOR WORK TO BE PERFORMED List below the items that need attention Be specific and provide as much information as possible 1 O Done 2 O Done 3 O Done 4 O Done 5 O Done ALL ITEMS HAVE BEEN COMPLETED IN A SATISFACTORY MANNER HOMEOWNER S SIGNATURE DATE REGENT HOMES INC REPRESENTATIVE DATE AIR CONDITIONING amp HEATING A Air Conditioner amp Heating Equipment The air conditioning and heating equipment was installed by the HVAC Heating Ventilating and Air Conditioning Contractor The air conditioning and heating system s provide s year round climate control and consists of a thermostat to control temperature and air handler unit to heat or cool the air a filter to remove particles from the air plus a fan unit to distribute and circulate air throughout the home via ducts and registers Air conditioners have an outdoor condensing unit or compressor which must be kept sufficiently free of obstructions such as shrubbery to allow air to flow freely NOTE Window coverings should be
25. Guidelines To clean use a non abrasive spray cleanser and sponge Dropping heavy objects onto porcelain can chip or crack the surface and may produce permanent staining Do not leave steel wool pads on sink surfaces as they will rust and stain the surface Be aware that continuous action toilet bowl cleansers placed in the toilet water tank will prematurely wear out the rubber tank flapper and may discolor the bowl Follow the manufacturer s recommendations for cleaning and maintenance C Kitchen Sinks Stainless Steel and Cast Iron Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines For routine cleaning use a non abrasive household cleanser with warm water and a sponge Do not scrape the surface with utensils pots or pans Do not leave leftovers in sink or strainer particularly tea bags and coffee grounds which contain harmful acids Regular washing soap not baking soda should be added to the drain to keep it grease and soap free 59 Do not clean stainless steel sinks with steel wool or metal brushes and do not leave rubber mats in the sink since they trap water and produce surface discoloration To restore luster to stainless steel apply a small amount of mineral oil with a soft cloth then wipe dry D Garbage Disposal Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Always use cold water when disposal is working Corncobs and husks bones celery or any other food that shreds should not be put in the disposal If the machine becomes jammed use t
26. Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Noisy Pipes Noisy water pipes should be corrected immediately since the resulting vibrations can damage plumbing line fittings and cause them to leak There is one exception Exterior hose faucets often produce a high pitched noise caused by an attached vacuum breaker or back flow preventer This noise is normal and not a cause for concern Noisy pipe problems can be identified and corrected as follows 1 The water heater temperature may be set too high producing steam in the pipes To resolve gradually reduce the water heater temperature setting until the steam is reduced 2 Abruptly turning off a faucet in areas with high water pressure can produce a pounding or knocking sound To resolve slightly close the main shut off valve 3 Air can get into the pipes To resolve open all interior and exterior faucets and run for a few minutes allowing air to pass through the system Freezing Pipes Provided the home is heated at normal level pipes should not freeze Set heat at 65 F if you are away during winter months Keep garage doors closed to protect plumbing lines that run through this area If temperatures are below normal you should open cupboards to allow heat to the pipes and let faucets drip to keep pipes from freezing Outside faucets must be shut off during freezing weather and the hose removed B Main Shut off Valve This is the center of the plumbing system the point at which the main wate
27. Introduction Your home may be equipped with a variety of appliances such as an electric oven range hood dishwasher refrigerator microwave oven garbage disposal washing machine and dryer At move in time you should test all appliances for proper operation and where applicable fill out and mail in warranty cards Failure to do so may void the Manufacturer s Warranty Review the Manufacturer s Service Manuals for operation and maintenance instructions File your manuals in a convenient location for future reference Many manufacturers offer toll free customer service to answer questions about appliance problems and operation Some helpful numbers are G E Service 800 432 2737 Whirlpool 800 253 1301 Kitchen Aid 800 422 1230 Jenn Air 800 688 1100 Sub Zero 800 222 7820 Sears 800 366 7278 Maytag 800 688 9900 Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Before calling for service If an electrical applicant fails to work complete the following checklist before calling the appropriate contractor otherwise you may be charged for a service call 1 Check that the appliance is plugged in 2 If the appliance is plugged into a wall switched electrical outlet make sure the switch is ON If the appliance is plugged into the GFCI circuit check and reset the button if necessary 3 The circuit breaker in the panel box controlling the appliance should be in the ON position 4 Some appliances come with their own separate fuses or ci
28. SYSTEM amp INTERCOM Some homes are equipped with security systems and or intercoms and their operating instructions and warranty information are contained in their respective manuals and product literature SHELVING Introduction Unless wood shelves are installed shelves are fabricated of heavy gauge welded steel rod covered with a protective plastic coating The shelving will support a static load of 75 pounds per 3 linear feet evenly distributed 65 WINDOWS SCREENS Introduction Typically the windows in your new home are double pane glass and are framed in vinyl The manufacturer has sealed all the glass to the frame and the frame has been attached to your home and caulked Note t is the homeowner s responsibility to check and re caulk all exterior frames All window scratches or imperfections must be reported to your builder at time of orientation walk through not after closing Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Cleaning Window Glass Clean windows with a commercial glass cleaner or a cup of vinegar mixed with a gallon of warm water Apply with a sponge or lint free cloth then dry and polish with paper towels A rubber squeegee passes over glass surfaces will speed the drying and eliminate streaking Window Condensation The appearance of moisture that occurs when warm moist air comes in contact with a colder surface is called condensation While moisture may appear on windows this do
29. a direct vent gas fireplace becomes extremely hot when the fireplace is operating 35 FLOORING Introduction Your home may be finished with a variety of flooring materials including carpet vinyl hardwood floors and ceramic tiles A Carpeting The carpet in durable and requires minimal care Color variations and shading may be noticeable and depend upon the surface texture and pile fiber of the carpet Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Frequent vacuuming and immediate stain removal are primary carpet care steps When using carpet cleaners carefully follow manufacturer s instructions While normal vacuuming will only remove loose fibers from carpet yarns an occasional tuft may be lifted about the surface Do not pull out the tuft just snip if off to the length of the other tufts using scissors Color fading and spots caused by sunlight are normal and can be minimized by using the draperies during the day or by using sheer draperies to reduce incoming sunlight Some colors may fade faster than others Change filters in your heating and air conditioning systems on a regular basis or when dirty Dust pollen and smoke will settle on your carpets and increase staining and soiling When a spill occurs immediately blot it firmly with dry white paper towels or rags Do not rub the spot as it will damage your carpet s tufts and may permanently alter your carpets appearance If stain remains spray with cold wate
30. aming uses a pre engineered truss system that supports the weight of the roof and can be used in combination with conventional ceiling and roof framing The trusses are delivered to the building site by truck and then placed and secured into position on the home using a crane Roof Sheathing Roof sheathing covers and serves as base for the roofing materials As the wood in your home dries normal shrinkage will occur that causes settlement While every home has certain degrees of settlement not all settlement is severe enough to require repair Natural shrinkage and swelling will cause small cracks chips and splits These are acceptable under industry standards Insulation Insulation is placed wherever there is likely to be a difference between interior and exterior temperature or humidity in the floors ceilings exterior walls and the attic Flexible insulation in the form of fiberglass blankets is commonly used in walls floors ceilings and around air ducts Blown insulation of loose fiberglass can be used in ceiling areas Plastic foam may be used for spot insulation around windows and doors pipe openings and other leakage points 42 R Value This is the insulation measurement The higher a material s R value number the more effective it is as an insulator Different parts of the home have different insulation standards 43 GARAGE DOORS Caution The installation of a garage door opener unless insta
31. aucet Many homeowners prefer to do this simple replacement procedure themselves Turn off the water supply intake valve located under the sink Using a wide jaw wrench remove the hexagonal cap from the top of the faucet assembly This may take a turn or two 3 Remove the inside part turn it upside down and you will see a fiber washer held by a screw through it s center This is the source of the leak The screw is easily removed but the washer itself may take a little prying to remove 4 Match the new washer to the worn out washer and replace it Re use the same screw if it is in good condition Then re assemble the faucet ya I Exterior Hose bibs Exterior faucets are called hose bibs To replace washers on standard exterior faucets follow the same procedure for washer replacement as stated above Check for leaks and replace washers as required since a leaking exterior faucet can cause water damage See washer replacement under Interior Faucets this section Water back flow prevention Most new homes have a vacuum breaker installed on the exterior hose faucet This device prevents backflow and stops potentially contaminated water from flowing back into the home water supply system via the garden hose These devices are a plumbing code requirement and may not be removed With a vacuum breaker installed it is normal to hear a humming or vibrating noise throughout the home when the exterior faucet is in use This is cause
32. caulking is appropriate for an area that requires painting such as along the stair stringer or where wood trim meets the wall Silicone Caulk Caulking that contains silicone will not accept paint it works best where water is present for example where tub meets tile or a sink meets a countertop If you are unsure of what type of caulk to use for a specific job you may want to consult a sales professional at your local hardware store or home improvement center 53 TYPICAL ANSWERS TO PAINTING AND CAULKING ISSUES ISSUE PROBABLE CAUSE ANSWER Wrinkling runs or drips in Paint applied too thick paint Sand smooth and re paint Interior or exterior caulking Normal drying settlement Remove old caulking re cracks or shrinks expansion and contraction caulk open gaps Mildew on painted surfaces Fungus from moisture and Carefully wash with water little sunlight diluted chlorine bleach 54 PLUMBING SYSTEM Introduction A licensed plumbing contractor installed all plumbing pipes and systems in your new home These have been tested and inspected In most cases minimum homeowner maintenance is all that the plumbing system requires Attending to small problems as they occur keeps them from becoming larger more costly problems later on A Water Lines Your home is served by a well or a city water supply The pipes that carry water into the home are designed to resist rust and corrosion
33. cracking and cement shrinkage are normal C Siding Siding expands and contracts in response changes in humidity and temperature Slight waves are visible in siding under certain weather conditions this cannot be entirely eliminated 32 SOLUTIONS TO COMMON EXTERIOR FINISH PROBLEMS PROBLEM LIKELY CAUSE SOLUTION Dents in soffit or fascia Abusive treatment Replace panel Siding blows off Strong winds under 54 Call during first year for miles per hour inspection Siding blows off Strong winds over 54 miles Act of God Review per hour homeowner s insurance policy Nicks or deep depressions in wood siding Abuse or accidents Caulk and repaint as soon as possible Dirty siding Adverse weather conditions and soiling Periodic hosing See manufacturer s recommendations Siding has dirty streaked appearance Mildew and fungus growth Apply commercial mildew cleaner following manufacturer s directions Cracking peeling of painted Normal aging and Clean and sand surface surfaces weathering then prime and repaint Gaps at joints in wood trim Normal caulk and filler Re caulk or fill shrinkage Sap on exterior trim Wood drying out Sand prime and paint Efflorescence on masonry finishes Crystallized soluble salts Scrub with water and stiff brush Cracks or stair step cracks in masonry finishes Normal home settlem
34. ctions Brown patches in grass Fungus or insect disease Contact lawn specialist Grass does not maintain a lush green appearance Lack of fertilizer Fertilize following manufacturer s directions Trees shrubs turning yellow Lack of fertilizer Fertilize following manufacturer s directions Trees shrubs wilting Too much or too little water Check soil around base of plant and water accordingly Newly planted tree shrub drops all leaves Shock resulting from transplanting Normal Continue to water as necessary 50 MIRRORS amp SHOWER ENCLOSURES A Mirrors Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Clean bathroom mirrors and shower enclosures with an ammonia free spray glass cleaner and a soft cloth wiping several times to remove all glass cleaner residue Most mirror failures are at the edges where spillover solutions attack the backing By applying cleaner to the cloth rather than the mirror this can be prevented Do not use abrasive cleaners which will permanently scratch and mar mirror or glass surfaces Do not expose mirror products to salt air for extended periods of time Humidity heat and dampness can cause permanent damage therefore provide adequate ventilation in rooms with mirrors Some mirrors will have some minor imperfections This is perfectly normal All scratches and other defects in mirrors and glass tub shower enclosures must be reported to your bu
35. d by the washers built into the back flow preventer and is not reason for concern 62 ROOFING GUTTERS amp DOWNSPOUTS Introduction The roof of most homes is constructed with a two ply roof system which consists of roofing felt and plywood or sheathing Tile or shingles are installed following manufacturer s guidelines and product specifications For more information on roof sheathing and insulations see section Framing and Carpentry A Shingle Roofs Shingle roofs come in many different colors and styles Shingle roofs provide water protection to the roof underlayment B Flashing Roof flashings are sheet metal trims used around roof openings on vent stacks roof vents and valleys Their purpose is to channel water away from the house C Gutters and Downspouts if installed Gutters channel water run off from the roof to downspouts that guide the water to ground level drainage areas Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Gutters and downspouts should be inspected and cleaned regularly Clear the gutter of accumulated debris such as leaves twigs branches balls and other objects Gutters need to slope slightly downward to channel water to the downspout Splash blocks can be properly positioned at the bottom of the downspout to direct water away 63 from the foundation Finally the soil grade must slope away from the home The best advice is to keep the gutters free of debris Gutters and down
36. disposal clogged Obstruction in line Use disposal wrench on bottom of disposal Garbage disposal will not operate Tripped reset button Check reset button on bottom of disposal 57 PLUMBING FIXTURES Introduction The plumbing fixtures in most homes include the water heater bathtubs showers toilets and sinks Note As equipment technology changes frequently the Manufacturer s Service Manuals will supersede all recommendations and procedures contained in this manual A Water Heater The electric water heater is equipped with an automatic temperature and pressure relief valve a safety feature that opens and releases excessive pressure or heat build up Should this occur water will flow from the tank until both temperature and pressure are reduced to safe levels Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Hot Water Temperature the Manufacturer sets Water temperature at 120 F While low temperature settings reduce utility costs bear in mind that dishwashers do not operate properly with settings below 120 F Do not store combustible items oily rags clothing brooms or dust mops near the water heater since this presents a potential fire hazard Do not use the top of the water heater as a storage shelf Scale Small amounts of scale deposits will collect and settle to the bottom of the water tank Remove this residue annually by draining the tank Shut off the power first using the appropriate c
37. ed to sod seeding shrubs trees and planting 3 Deficiencies or defects caused by soil movement 4 Any contamination caused or created by material or manmade chemicals compounds or substances The warranty does not cover conditions or damage caused by lack of maintenance or additions changes or alterations after the warranty enrollment date 1 Any loss or damage that arises while the home is not being used for residential purposes Changes alterations or additions made to the home by anyone other than Regent Homes Changes of grading of the site by anyone other than Regent Homes Adding a storm door will void both Regent Homes and the manufacturer s warranty for exterior doors The warranty does not cover deficiencies or defects caused by neglect Deficiencies or defects caused or made worse by the owner occupants or guests Normal wear and tear Any improvements installed after the warranty date any part of the property not included in the purchase price Regent Homes warranty does not cover manufacturers and other implied warranties although these manufacturers and suppliers have written warranties of their own which are enclosed 1 Appliances fixtures and equipment including but not limited to refrigerator range dishwasher washer dryer garbage disposal water heater heat pump air conditioner furnace smoke detector security system garage door opener etc Regent Homes warrant
38. ed to the ground prior to pouring the concrete slab After the first year it is the homeowner s responsibility to maintain a termite contract One thing to understand about concrete is that it will crack It is important to understand that concrete is a porous material that will expand contract and crack as a result of temperature changes shrinkage stress and settlement Hairline cracks that may appear on foundation walls and be visible on garage floors are common and are usually cosmetic as opposed to structural Shrinking occurs from the normal curing process of concrete that varies with the time of year and the moisture conditions that exist when the concrete is poured Soil conditions and loads such as the weight of the walls cause slab stress and settlement These forces can create a variety of stresses which in combination with seasonal temperature variations can cause concrete and masonry foundations to develop non structural cracks Home Slab and Garage Slabs Due to the large size of concrete home and garage slabs hairline cracks less than inch in width are common and are usually the result of expansion and contraction These cracks are normal and it is best to leave them alone since attempts to fill the cracks will not stop the expansion and contraction Long hairline cracks in the slabs patios garage floors sidewalks and driveways are common and require no additional attention They are cosmetic in nature and do not
39. el normally between 68 F to 71 F for heating and between 76 F to 78 F for cooling and leave it there Then set the fan switch to either the ON or AUTO position The less you change the thermostat setting the more comfortable you will be the lower your utility bills will be and less wear and tear on the system s compressor will incur Changing settings frequently will cause the supplemental heater to run more often and turning the system on or off expends extra energy to bring the temperature back to a comfortable level Setting air conditioning controls too low does not cool the home faster and the same principle applies to heating D Air Distribution System Duct Work Ducts carry and distribute heated or cooled air to each room Registers Two kinds of registers are used air supply registers located on the wall or ceiling that deliver warm or cooled air into the room and air return registers located on walls or ceilings or under the air handler access door that return air from the room back into the air handler fan to be re heated or re cooled To regulate temperatures on different floors or rooms during different seasons adjust the air supply registers by partially opening or closing them thus restricting or moving additional air into each room Vacuum supply and return registers to ensure they remain dust free Check that draperies furniture or other obstructions that restrict normal airflow do not b
40. ency service 28 LIGHT FIXTURES Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Interior and exterior lighting fixtures require periodic homeowner maintenance to preserve the finish Carefully review and follow the instructions if provided for these fixtures Interior and exterior fixtures will tarnish and the manufacturer does not warrant the finish Always turn the power off at a wall switch or circuit breaker before cleaning any electrical device The danger of a severe shock will still exist if the device is turned off with a built in switch Do not use indoor bulbs in outdoor lighting fixtures if the bulb is to be exposed to the weather Do not use light bulbs with a higher wattage than the maximum wattage stated on the light fixture 29 SMOKE DETECTORS The smoke detectors in your home are pre wired per electrical code requirements into the main electrical system In case of electric failure the smoke detector is back up with a 9 volt battery Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Test the detectors and clean and vacuum the openings of the smoke detector once a month Visually inspect the clear button on the test switch to see that the indicator light is glowing To test the alarm press the TEST button for about ten seconds or until the horn sounds lightly Do not use an open flame to test the detector The unit will emit a low frequency beeping noise if a malfunction or power failure occurs or if the bat
41. ent Seal cracks with a flexible masonry caulk 33 EXPANSION amp CONTRACTION Most building materials will expand and contract subject to changes in temperature and humidity All materials do not expand and contract at the same rate and the result may be small cracks in drywall and paint and small separations between materials This is very normal in a new home even in the highest quality of construction Shrinkage of the wood and sheetrock in your home is inevitable and this will be most noticeable during the first year following completion of the construction However generally all that is needed is a small cosmetic repair sometimes involving only minor caulking Keep in mind that caulk will eventually require replacement by the homeowner 34 GAS FIREPLACES If you have a gas fireplace supplying the source for the gas is usually the homeowner s responsibility If you have this type of fireplace it is demonstrated as soon as the gas is provided Read and follow all manufacturers directions A slight delay between turning the switch on and the flame ignition is normal The flames should ignite gently and silently If you notice any deviation from this and any gas smell immediately shut off the switch and report it to the gas company Excessive winds can cause a downdraft which can blow out the pilot requiring you to relight it before using the fireplace The exterior vent cover for
42. eplace evaporating water and to keep the water trap barrier intact Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Drain traps can be cleaned by putting 3 tablespoons of ordinary washing soap not baking soda into the drain Add a little hot water let stand for 15 minutes and then flush with hot water Use a rubber plunger to unclog a blocked toilet Caution Do not pour grease into drains or toilets or use caustic cleansers to open plugged drains Do not use a plunger with any drain cleaning chemical When using a chemical drain cleaner carefully follow the manufacturer s safety precautions and product directions E Sewer Stoppage All of your sewer and drain lines should operate freely If a sewer or drain line becomes clogged repair is required Should an emergency problem develop with your sewer or drain lines and you have determined that the clogging is not a result of a blockage caused by improper disposal or other homeowner maintenance problem you should contact us immediately Preventive maintenance is the best safeguard against clogged drains or sewer lines Clogs are generally caused by the improper disposal of waster materials The use of a plunger can facilitate the clearing of minor clogs and if you use a chemical agent be sure to follow the manufacturer s instructions carefully to avoid personal injury If service is required and it is determined that the problem is not warranted you will be responsible for the plumber s cha
43. ermostat stays on box tripped Reset or replace as continuously necessary Heat pump fan or air conditioner not operating Circuit breaker or fuse tripped Reset circuit breaker at panel box or unit Air conditioner or heat pump not operating properly Outside unit obstructed by debris bushes leaves etc Clear obstructions from top and sides of unit Inside air handler is leaking water Condensate drain clogged or inside coil is frozen Call HVAC Contractor Check manufacturer s warranty Inside or outside coil is frozen Low refrigerant or dirty air filter Call HVAC Contractor Clean or replace filter Raise thermostat to 90 to thaw Excess water on windowpanes Excess humidity in home Adjust thermostat setting Use exhaust fans while cooking or bathing Burning smell when winter or auxiliary heat first turned on Accumulated dust on electrical coils Normal Happens once each year Blue green light on thermostat stays on continuously Disconnect breaker tripped at heat pump Check disconnect breaker Reset or replace as necessary Tip to Homeowner If your air conditioner does not operate properly even after you have followed the above guidelines and the manufacturer s warranty booklet call the subcontractor Remember you will be responsible for paying the service call unless the problem is warranted APPLIANCES
44. es not indicate a window problem The most common cause is humid air outside the home hitting the cold surface of the window glass Wipe up condensation as quickly as possible in order to avoid staining the drywall windowsill or caulking Weep Holes In heavy rains water may collect in the bottom channel of window frames Weep holes are provided to allow excess water to escape to the outside Keep the bottom window channels and weep holes free of dirt and debris for proper operation Window Screens Window screens are provided with every new home and their sole purpose is to help prevent insects from coming inside when the windows are open Window screens may be washed and rinsed using a mild household detergent Storing Screens Many homeowners remove and store screens for the winter to allow more light into the home To make re installation more convenient label each screen as you remove it Use caution screens perforate easily and the frames bend if they are not handled with care CAUTION Window screens will not prevent children from falling through open windows to the ground below The screen is not a barrier and the fastening system for the screen will not support any weight beyond the screen itself Never allow children near an opened screened window or place any weight on or push against a window screen Do not place furniture near windows so that children have easy access 66 TYPICAL ANSWERS TO WINDOW ISSUES
45. every six months for signs of weathering and repainted as necessary Painting Steel clad or fiberglass doors are maintenance free and require little attention except for painting and upkeep from dents and scratches Weather Stripping Weather stripping on exterior doors helps maintain the home s energy efficiency preventing the loss of conditioned air and reducing the infiltration of outside air Weather stripping must remain in place to operate effectively 1 Replace weather stripping that becomes loose or damaged 2 Prolong the life of vinyl and rubber weather stripping by applying a silicone spray 3 The sweep weather stripping at the bottom of the door may require replacement from time to time To replace remove the sweep and match with a replacement available at any hardware store 4 To raise or lower the threshold adjust the screws on the wood or metal portion of the threshold Keep threshold caulked at all times 5 Keep sprinklers away from doors 21 TYPICAL ANSWERS TO DOOR ISSUES ISSUES PROBABLE CAUSE ANSWER Interior door does not stay closed Keeper out of adjustment Adjust keeper Door sticks or binds Settlement or swelling from moisture Adjust hinges keeper or jambs Doorknob loose or rattles Loose screw Tighten screws Hinges on the door squeak Metal rubbing Apply silicone spray to hinges Bi fold doors do not close flush Door keepers unadjusted
46. h Doors Keep sprinklers away from sliding glass doors and French doors when watering the lawn Sliding glass doors have been sealed against water but occasionally high winds and driving rains can create a vibration that causes some leakage Neither this nor the water that accumulates in the tracks can be prevented This is also true for French doors Clean glass with a spray glass cleaner and wipe frames with sudsy water and a soft cloth Periodically clean the bottom of the door track and check to ensure that drain holes are clear of obstructions To keep the doors moving freely apply a silicone spray to the tracks Do not use oil which may cause premature deterioration of the rollers 20 In some cases the glass is tinted to help block the rays of the sun If you feel you need solar protection film on your glass it is important to note that ALL SOLAR FILM MUST BE APPLIED TO THE INSIDE PANE OF GLASS Otherwise heat build up between the layers of glass will cause the glass to crack D Exterior Doors An exterior door that is properly aligned fitted weather stripped and maintained will help control energy costs Exterior doors are often steel clad or fiberglass to prevent warpage and to maximize insulation An exterior door will warp to some degree due to temperature differences between the inside and the outside surfaces Warpage shall not exceed 4 measured diagonally from corner to corner Wood exterior doors should be checked
47. he job easier Fertilizing Fertilizer should be applied a minimum of three times a year for turf In the winter months two applications are necessary and one should be a weed and feed In the summer months one application should be applied Spray insecticide every other month Do not spray immature grass with chemicals to kill weeds The best approach is to use pre emergent weed control when grass is stronger and more mature Be aware that sod when initially laid will occasionally go into shock and turn brown The sod is not dead and you should continue to water it Watering From germination to establishment once seeds are in the ground their ability to germinate and eventually form a full lawn depends on a variety of conditions Watering needs to be done several times a day for newly seeded lawns to keep the soil moist but not so much that the soil washes away Traffic such as children pets and equipment should be kept off the planted area to avoid crushing the emerging blades This delicate nurturing period extends from the time the seed is sown to the point at which the grass becomes established Germination can take anywhere from 4 to 30 days with an average of 14 to 21 days followed by a 6 to 10 week establishment period prior to use After installation proper watering is the single most important step in the establishment of sod lawn After the sod is in place it may be necessary to water every day for up to two weeks until the
48. he wrench to free the mechanism and try again The disposal will rust if not used regularly If you are going to be away for an extended period of time a teaspoon of oil will help prevent the mechanism from freezing E Bathroom Sinks Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Sink surfaces can be easily chipped and stained so treat them accordingly Prevent hair accumulation clogs by periodically removing the stopper for cleaning or purchase a rubber hair collector Avoid setting lit cigarettes on the edge of the sink as they will burn and permanently damage the surface F Toilets A water saving regulation went into effect in 1993 It prohibits the manufacture of toilets that use more than 1 6 gallons of water per flush In the search for a balance among comfort convenience and sensible use of natural resources the government conducted several studies The 1 6 gallon toilet turned out to be the size that consistently saves water 60 As a result of implementing the standard flushing twice is occasionally necessary to completely empty the toilet bowl Even thought you flush twice on occasion rest assured that overall you are saving water and you have complied with the law Running Toilets To stop running water in the toilet check the shut off float in the tank You will most likely find it has lifted too high in the tank preventing the valve from shutting off completely In this case gently bend the float rod down until it stops the
49. iberate part of the approved drainage design it allows water to enter the drainage system slowly and also helps to limit the entry of nutrients fertilizers etc into the interconnected fresh water system After normal heavy rain water should not be standing on paved areas after 48 hours Swales and drainage areas may be permanently wet particularly in times of heavy rain or melting snow Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Over time the grade around the house can settle If this occurs spread additional soil or sand in the depressions to raise and re establish the grade 47 To prevent erosion and ponding of water 1 Do not alter the soil grade Keep water ditches or swales open and free of leaves and debris Do not build sheds hot tubs decks fences pools or gardens in the swales otherwise water may not flow properly through the swale 3 Direct water run off away from the home to prevent washouts Reposition splash blocks if they are moved 4 Do not allow sprinklers to wet the house or form puddles near or against the foundation B Lawn In new homes the yard is graded and the landscape contractor removes debris and rakes the ground surface prior to installing sod or grass seed Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines The future beauty of your yard depends on the care and attention you provide The builder cannot be responsible for homeowner neglect or improper landscape maintenance The following suggestions should make t
50. ilder at time of the orientation walk through and not after closing The following is a list of common acceptable defects Slight hairline face and back scratches Slight pinhead bubbles or seeds Slight rubs Slight discoloration Slight dins or bruises B Shower Enclosures Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Shower enclosures create extreme amounts of moisture therefore frequent checking of joint areas is recommended Check caulking periodically to ensure against leaking The homeowner is responsible for re caulking as needed The use of clear silicone is not recommended as it yellows with age 51 PAINTING amp CAULKING Introduction The interior walls of new homes are generally painted with a latex paint We strongly recommend that touch up paint be used instead of washing the walls Paint touch up after your final walkthrough is the homeowner s responsibility A Interior Paint Painting Note The builder cannot guarantee that painting repairs requiring new material will match the color of the existing material Paint repairs may show slight variations in color as a result of weathering aging or pigment variations in different paint manufacturing runs Color variations are normal Fading is also normal and the degree is dependent on climate conditions Touch Up Paint touch up is visible under certain lighting conditions When doing paint touch ups use a small brush applying paint only to the damaged sp
51. ircuit breaker in the electrical panel box Attach a garden hose to the valve and run it outside Then open the valve at the bottom of the water heater allowing the residue to drain out or until the water runs clear If you live in a hard water region a water softener will reduce the need for more frequent draining Do not completely drain an electric water tank without first shutting off the water heater circuit breaker Do not turn circuit breaker on until the tank is full of water Element Cleaning or Replacement The heating elements in the water heater will require periodic cleaning The frequency is determined in part by the quality of the water in your area Again refer to the manufacturer s literature for step by step instructions and drawings or contact an authorized service company 58 No Hot Water If you discover you have no hot water check the breaker the temperature setting and the water supply valve before calling for service Refer to the manufacturer s literature for locations of these items and other troubleshooting information Pressure Relief Valve At least once each year manually operate the pressure relief valve Stay clear of the discharge line to avoid injury See manufacturer s literature for diagrams and detailed instructions B Fixtures Kitchen and bathroom sinks toilets and bathtubs are made with cultured marble plastic stainless steel or finished with porcelain Homeowner s Maintenance
52. ision sets computers and telephones during electrical storms Power Failure If the electrical power goes out check first to determine if neighbors are also without power and if so contact the utility company Before attempting to reset the circuit breakers check that power has been restored to the area If neighbors have power check the main circuit breaker in the panel box See Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines under Circuit Breakers this section Be aware that not every electrical power problem is due to problems within the home s electrical system Utility companies experience a variety of situations that effect power 25 supplies including power surges and interruptions peak overload periods and even total shutdowns Circuit Breakers Electrical wiring and appliances are protected by circuit breakers to stop circuit overloading The main circuit breaker is located in the electrical panel box and if tripped for any reason entirely cuts off all electricity to the house The smaller circuit breakers within the panel box control appliances wall switches lighting and the HVAC system and each switch should be clearly marked as to what it controls Do not tamper with the electrical service entrance cable that provides power to the service panel Circuit Tripping Causes and Remedies Thunderstorms lightening and power failures can cause circuit breakers to trip If only your home is affected try to reset by switching the
53. ke care of any kind of burn immediately First snip off the darkened fibers Then use a soapless cleaner and sponge with water If the burn is extensive talk with a professional about replacing the damaged area Crushing Furniture and traffic may crush a carpet s pile fibers Frequent vacuuming in high traffic areas and glides or cups under heavy pieces of furniture can help prevent this Rotating your furniture to change the traffic pattern in a room promotes more even wear Some carpets resist matting and crushing because of their level of fiber but this does not imply or guarantee that no matting or crushing will occur Heavy traffic areas such as 37 halls and stairways are more susceptible to wear and crushing This is considered normal wear Fading Science has yet to develop a color that will not fade with time All carpets will slowly lose some color due to natural and artificial forces in the environment You can delay this process by frequently removing soil with vacuuming regularly changing air filters in heating and air conditioning systems keeping humidity and room temperature from getting too high and reducing sunlight exposure with window coverings Filtration If interior doors are kept closed while the air conditioning is operating air circulation from the closed room flows through the small space at the bottom of the door This forces the air over the carpet fibers which in turn act as a filter catching particulate pol
54. lets GFCI outlets are often wired in a series For example the garage GFCI outlet controls the bathroom and may possibly control other outlets throughout the home Taking this example further if the electrical outlet in the bathroom is not functioning check the GFCI in the garage Also be aware that some homes have multiple GFCI s so be certain to inspect and reset the affected outlet 26 If a GFCI s receptacle is not functioning press the RESET button on the wall plate to restore proper operation If that does not work check and reset the circuit breaker in the panel box first then press the GFCI Reset button If the outlet still fails it may indicate a short in the appliance If other appliances will not operate an electrician should be contacted and the GFCI replaced To test GFCI s press the TEST button on the receptacle The outlet should not perform To reset press the RESET button Pre wired for Telephones Most homes are pre wired for telephones If you experience problems with the telephone system you should contact your local phone company If the telephone company states that there is trouble in the house wiring and your house is less than one year old please call your builder 27 GAS SHUT OFFS There is a shut off on the gas line at or near its connection to each item that operates on gas If you suspect a gas leak leave the home and call the gas company immediately for emerg
55. lled as an available option may void your garage door warranty Garage doors are warranted for proper mechanical operation as installed The installation of a garage door opener by others alters the operation of the door and the builder cannot be responsible for altered mechanical operation Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Garage doors with remote openers can be operated manually by pulling the release cord at the top of the garage door near the track and then lifting the garage door open If minor garage door adjustments are required contact an authorized repairman On a yearly basis light gauge oil should be applied to track roller hinges pulleys and springs Also check to see if nuts and bolts are tight Please Note Photocells are not designed to be waterproof and care must be taken when pressure cleaning or hosing out the garage If the photocells get wet they may not allow the door to close We will not warrant photo cells if this is deemed the cause of failure Garage overheard doors cannot be airtight Some light will be visible around all the edges Severe weather conditions may result in some precipitation entering around the door 44 INTERIOR WALLS amp CEILINGS Introduction Your home has two types of walls load bearing and non load bearing 1 Any alteration of load bearing walls may reduce the strength of the structure by altering its unit load capacity its load bearing or its support 2
56. lock registers Interior doors in each room are undercut to allow return air to circulate throughout each room where the doors are closed Do not close doors to regulate room temperatures A Note of Caution Burning candles for prolonged periods of time may in some instances create a phenomenon known as Ghosting Ghosting occurs when soot from a burning candle is released into the air carried throughout the house through the air conditioner and expelled through the vents The soot adheres to all surfaces including ceilings fabrics and countertops It is especially visible on the carpet at the base of bedroom doors Cleaning is very difficult and it a homeowner s responsibility To avoid ghosting in your home follow these few simple steps 1 Buy candles made with hard wax and with thin braided wicks that curl over when burned 2 Buy candles with low aromatic properties and with wicks that burn with a low flame 3 Buy candles with cotton or paper wicks and refrain from buying candles with metal core wicks Do not allow candles to smoke and keep them out of drafts Keep matches and wick debris out of the candle Extinguish candles after one hour of continuous burning Allow the candle to cool before relighting 7 Large numbers of candles should be burned in the fireplace with the damper open to allow the smoke and emission to escape 8 Stop using candles that leave a visible soot ring on their containers
57. lution Over time a noticeable stain develops at the threshold Rippling With wall to wall carpeting high humidity may cause rippling If the carpet remains rippled after the humidity has left have a professional re stretch the carpeting using a power stretcher not a knee kicker Seams Carper usually comes in 12 foot widths making seams necessary in most rooms Visible seams are not a defect unless they have been improperly made or unless the material has a defect making the seam appear more pronounced than normal The more dense and uniform the carpet texture the more visible the seams will be Carpet styles with low tight naps result in the most visible seams Seams are never more visible than when the carpet is first installed Usually with time use and vacuuming will help the seams become less visible You can see examples of how carpet seams diminish after they have been vacuumed and have experienced traffic in the model homes Shading Shading is an inherent quality of fine cut pile carpets Household traffic causes pile fibers to assume different angles as a result the carpet appears darker and lighter in these areas A good vacuuming which makes the pile all go in the same direction provides a temporary remedy Shedding New carpeting especially pile sheds bits of fiber for a period of time Eventually these loose fibers are removed by vacuuming Shedding will usually occur more with wool carpeting than with nylon or other sy
58. nd partitions Sub Flooring A wood sheet flooring directly over the joists that supports the underlayment or floor covering Swale The soil contour on a building lot deliberately shaped to channel rainwater away from the home Tack Strips A wood strip with exposed tack points that is attached to the sub flooring and holds stretched wall to wall carpeting in position Tread The horizontal board in a stairway on which the foot is placed 13 Trim The finish materials in a building such as moldings applied around openings or at the floor and ceilings of rooms Trusses Engineered wood structural members used to construct floors and roofs Turnaround An additional section of driveway where cars can be turned around Underlayment A flooring layer over the base sub flooring over which tile or resilient floor covering is laid Valley The internal angle formed by the junction of two sloping sides of a roof Vacuum Breaker Also called a back flow preventer this device is placed on exterior faucets to allow water to only flow out of the home Valve Seat An interior part of the faucet valve assembly where the valve rests Wall Ties The metal pieces that tie masonry veneer to the frame of the home or when pouring concrete the metal pieces that hold concrete foundation wall forms in place until the concrete cures Washers Round rigid rubber or plastic discs used as a sealing device in
59. nterior Doors Interior doors expand and contract in reaction to temperature and moisture changes and will be wider in humid summer periods and narrower during dryer winter months Homeowner Maintenance Guidelines Sticking Doors Home settlement or damp weather may cause swelling that puts the doors out of alignment In some cases this may only be temporary due to seasonal variations and the sticking will tend to correct itself without any adjustment Door Precautions Interior doors are usually hollow core and are not designed to support attachments and hanging accessories Hanging heavy items on doorknobs or at the top of a door can damage hardware and hinges These doors are also undercut to allow air movement Slamming Slamming doors can damage both doors and jambs and can even cause cracking in walls Teach children not to hang on the doorknob and swing back and forth this will loosen the hardware and cause the door to sag Shrinkage Use putty filler or latex caulk to fill any minor separations that develop at mitered joints in door trim Follow with painting Panels of wood doors shrink and expand in response to changes in temperature and humidity Touching up the paint or stain on unfinished exposed areas is your home maintenance responsibility B Bi Fold and Bi Pass Doors Keep the door tracks free of paint and dirt and apply a small amount of silicone spray to the guide edges of the tracks C Sliding Glass Doors and Frenc
60. nthetics B Hardwood Floors Most hardwood floors are pre finished at the factory with a baked on wax coating or a urethane coating Wood floor tone grain and color variations are normal and reflect the natural characteristics of real hardwood Some squeaking or separating of hardwood floors is normal and is caused by seasonal weather and humidity changes It is normal to expect surface nailing to occur around the perimeter area of pre finished hardwood floors and around any repair areas as well 38 Cupping or crowning are normal and occur from gaining or losing moisture on one side faster than the other Neither the builder nor the manufacturer can stop this from happening It is also due to natural growth rings in the tree and the part of the tree that has been used In some instances the cupping and crowning action may loosen nails or adhesive The only way to control this occurrence is to try to keep your home at an even temperature and moisture level Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Prior to cleaning your hardwood floors carefully read and follow the manufacturer s instructions and recommendations Use entrance rugs or mats to protect wood flooring from dirt and water spots Do not use rubber backed mats as they will remove the finish Mop up water spills immediately Do not set potted plants directly on a hardwood floor as moisture can leak through and cause permanent staining and warpage Attach furniture protec
61. om followed by a disinfectant and thorough rinsing with clear water Moisture and mildew removal is a homeowner s responsibility Soap Scum In some geographic areas water that is high in mineral content can contribute to soap scum buildup To clean and remove this residue wash the affected surfaces with a mild vinegar and water solution or use mildew removers found in most stores Rust Stains The contact of wet metal on sink surfaces for example the bottom of a shaving cream can may produce rust stains To remove them apply a powered rust remover carefully following the manufacturer s instructions TYPICAL ANSWERS TO BATHROOM ISSUES Issue Probable Cause Answer Grout cracks between tiles Settlement Re caulk cracks with flexible caulk Grout stains Moisture and soap build up Wipe down wet tile after bathing Use exhaust fan Mirror discoloration around Standing water on bottom Keep edges clean and dry edges of mirror or moisture Moisture build up around Normal Wipe down after use windows 11 CABINETS Introduction Kitchen laundry room and bathroom vanity cabinets are all selected for their attractive appearance durability and ease of care With proper maintenance the cabinets will remain serviceable and attractive for many years Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Wood Cabinets Wood cabinet tone grain and color variations are normal and reflect the natural characteri
62. ondenser An exterior unit that is part of the air conditioning system which expels heat into the outside air Conduit Electrical A pipe usually metal in which insulated electrical wire is installed Corner Bead An angled metal edging used to protect and form an edge where drywall panels meet at outside edges Damper A device in a fireplace that controls the air draft allowed into the fire Delamination The separation of the top piles or laminate from the base to which they are attached In vanity and kitchen countertops the warping or detachment of laminate material from the wood substrate Dethatching The loosening and or removal of matted grass and leaves from existing lawns which allows the grass to breathe and therefore promotes healthy growth Downspout A pipe usually of metal for carrying water from roof gutters Drywall Also known as gypsum board or sheetrock these large sheets are attached to the wall studs and ceiling framing to construct the walls and ceiling of the home Eaves The margin or lower part of a roof projection over a wall Efflorescence A white powdery substance that can form on new block brick or stucco finishes It is composed of water soluble salts that are present in masonry materials and that rise to the surface via water evaporation Face Frame The front of kitchen and bathroom cabinets to which the hinged doors attach Face Nailing Nailing thro
63. ot Touch up may not match the surrounding area exactly even if the same paint mix is used When it is time to re paint a room prepare the wall surfaces first by cleaning with a mild soap and water mixture or a reliable cleaning product Cleaning Flat Latex Painted Surfaces In many homes an off white lead free latex paint is applied to the interior walls of the home This is not a washable paint and will smudge if cleaned We do not recommend washing these surfaces but instead suggest using touch up paint to cover paint scuffs and marks Cleaning Semi Gloss Painted Surfaces An off white lead free semi gloss paint is applied to interior wood trim and doors These surfaces may be cleaned with a sponge and lukewarm water The less moisture on the sponge the better Wipe quickly with a gentle washing pressure from top to bottom without allowing the solution to run down the door or trim If the water does not work try the same procedure using a small amount of mild detergent mixed with water Once complete lightly rinse the washed area with plain water and allow to dry B Caulking Caulking is a building joint sealant used to where two dissimilar materials are joined In time caulking hardens and cracks and should be renewed prior to any re painting Homeowner s Note Caulking is a homeowner s responsibility Caulking around windows and doors should be checked and re caulked at least once a year 52 Exterior caulk will eventually
64. possible from the carpet With a white cloth rag blot from the edges toward the center of the stain until dry For asphalt butter chocolate cooking oil furniture polish grease food lipstick mascara oil shoe polish tar apply a small amount of dry cleaning fluid non oil type commonly used for spot removal from garments to a dry white cloth towel and blot Repeat and blot with paper towels until the spot is dry For ice cream latex paint excrement mayonnaise milk vomit and white wine apply a small amount of detergent or a recommended cleaner or solvent to a dry white cloth towel and blot Repeat and blot with paper towels until the spot is dry For fruit drinks berries blood coffee fruit juice ketchup mustard soft drinks tea and red wine mix 2 cup household hydrogen peroxide with tsp Clear ammonia and dampen the spot with a small amount of the mixture Let stand for 2 or 3 hours under a weighted sheet of plastic wrap Apply with damp towel Blot with paper towels until dry Apply a little undiluted white vinegar only after stain is removed NEVER APPLY DETERGENTS OR STAIN REMOVER DIRECTLY TO CARPET This could cause permanent discoloration For recommended cleaners and solvents call the fiber producer When a stain reappears after cleaning it means all the stain and cleaners were not removed completely Re cleaning is necessary Always rinse your carpet thoroughly to remove any detergent residue Burns Ta
65. pply the spackling compound over the crack with a strip of drywall tape add another top layer of spackling feathering the edges well sand to a smooth finish then refinish 4 Deep scrapes and indentations on drywall surfaces can be filled with two or three applications of spackling compound Allow it to dry thoroughly and sand between each application Touch up painting of repaired areas will not blend perfectly with the original wall paint Interior Trim and Moldings Homes are built with various moldings including but not limited to floor moldings door casings and other wood trims Some separation of wood trims and moldings is normal and is caused by home settlement plus shrinkage or expansion due to extremes of dryness or humidity 45 Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Should the baseboard trim come loose simply re nail the baseboard back into the proper position For moldings it is better to wait for several months to see if settlement will bring the pieces back together naturally If not a separation at corners or seams can be patched with a wood filler and then refinished to match the existing molding Shrinkage of wood trim occurs during the first two years or longer depending on temperature and humidity All lumber is more vulnerable to shrinkage during the heating season Maintaining a moderate and stable temperature helps to minimize the effects of shrinkage Wood will shrink less lengthwise than across the grain Wood
66. r and blot again Repeat if necessary Cleaning You can add years to the life of your carpet with regular care Carpet wears out because of foot traffic and dirt particles that get trampled deep into the pile beyond the suction of the vacuum The dirt particles wear down the fibers like sandpaper and dull the carpet The most important thing you can do to protect your carpet is vacuum it frequently Vacuum twice each week lightly and once a week thoroughly Heavy traffic areas may require more frequent cleaning A light vacuuming is three passes a thorough job may need seven passes A vacuum cleaner with a beater bar agitates the pile and is more effective in bringing dirt to the surface for easy removal Vacuuming high traffic areas daily helps keep them clean and maintains the upright position of the nap Wipe spills and clean stains immediately For best results blot or dab any spill or stain avoid rubbing Test stain removers on an out of the way area of the 36 carpet such as in a closet to check for any undesirable effects Have your carpet professionally cleaned regularly usually once a year Some problem conditions that may occur with your new carpet and our suggested remedies are presented below Stains No carpet is stain proof Although your carpet manufacturer designates your carpet as stain resistant some substances may still cause permanent staining Cleaning Stains First scoop up or blot as much of the spill as
67. r humidity condensation and mildew 1 Ensure that the clothes dryer is properly vented to the outside and that the vent is clear of obstructions and lint Do not push the dryer too far back or the vent hose may become kinked and therefore obstructed 2 Kitchen bath and utility exhaust fans can be used to carry moist air outside Use the fans for short periods of time since they exhaust cooler air conditioned air outside the home 3 Adjust the registers to maintain even temperatures throughout the home Do not try to speed up the evaporation process by creating extremely high temperatures in the wintertime This will cause the house to dry out unevenly creating cracks and other problems 17 COUNTERTOPS amp VANITY TOPS Introduction Kitchen and bathroom counter tops are covered with laminate material or cultured marble Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Laminate Counter Tops Clean laminate counter tops with a soapy cloth or sponge or use a non abrasive liquid household cleanser for more stubborn stains There are one step cleaning products available for laminates that clean reduce streaking and leave surfaces polished As with all cleaning products carefully follow the manufacturer s instructions Caution Keep standing water away from the backsplash side splashes seams and seal around the sink These areas are prone to water damage since excessive moisture will eventually break down the seal and ca
68. r is yes especially in the morning your lawn needs water Mowing Mow newly sodded areas as soon as the grass is 2 1 2 to 3 inches high Clip is frequently enough to prevent removal of more than one third of the growth at one mowing A lawn that is mowed to the right height at the right time resists weeds insects and disease It appears to be lush and healthy Infrequent mowing often results in the removal of too much grass at one time and eventually produces a lawn that looks thin spotty or burned How often your lawn needs mowing depends on three things how often and much you water and fertilize what time of year it is and the type of grass in your lawn Grasses tend to spread either horizontally or vertically Newly seeded lawns are more delicate than established ones which is why you have to be more careful when mowing them The soil is soft and the grass plants usually are not deeply rooted by the first mowing One the other hand mowing young lawns especially those planted vegitatively helps the plants to spread thus promoting a thicker lawn Use common sense and apply the same principles for properly mowing any lawn Miscellaneous Grass seed like all seed are living organisms requiring the environmental conditions that will allow each seed to be awakened or germinate and start life as a plant This means applying proper amounts of fertilizer lime and water regularly However do not cut wet grass The clippings are messy and
69. r line comes into the home If a major plumbing problem occurs turn off the main shut off valve to prevent flooding It is a good idea to show every family member where the shut off valve is explain how to close it in case of an emergency and to mark it with an easy to locate identification tag 55 If your water supply stops completely first check the water shut off at the front of the house or garage Next check the water meter shut off to confirm the service has not been shut down in your area If this is not the problem please call our office Please Note Having to shut off the water to an isolated item in the home such as one toilet is not an emergency If it is a warrantable problem submit it to our office in accordance with normal procedures C Water Intake Valves Most plumbing fixtures in the home have a water intake valve to individually shut off the water to that fixture for minor repairs and emergencies Show family members how to operate them and where to locate them and where they are located on sinks toilets water heater washing machine and laundry tub Toilet valves are behind the toilet and sink valves are under the sink D Drain Traps Every plumbing fixture in the home is equipped with a drain trap an S shaped pipe that holds water and acts as a barrier to keep airborne bacteria and sewer gas odors from coming back into the home If a sink or bathtub fixture is not used frequently turn it on periodically to r
70. rcuit breakers Review the Manufacturer s Service Manual for the exact location the check for proper setting 5 Annually check the dryer vent for obstructions Accumulated lint should be removed by disconnecting and then vacuuming the dryer vent Helpful Hints Refrigerators Freezer Check and clean the gaskets regularly to ensure a tight seal Refrigerator and freezer temperatures should be set at the temperatures recommended by the manufacturer DO NOT PLUG a refrigerator or freezer into a ground fault GFCI receptacle because the circuit may trip and not be discovered for some time allowing the contents of the refrigerator or freezer to spoil Dishwasher Use only when you have a full load Use the shortest wash cycle Cook Tops Stoves Ovens Do no allow dirt to accumulate Clean with a recommended over the counter cleaner Do not use harsh abrasives unless specified Clean all filters regularly Garbage Disposal Always use cold water when disposal is working Corncobs and husks bones celery or any other food that shreds should not be put into the disposal If the machine becomes jammed use the wrench to free the mechanism and try again The disposal will rust if not used regularly If you are going to be away for an extended period of time a teaspoon of oil will help prevent the mechanism from freezing Range Hood Fan or Microwaves The range hood fan filters collect grease and should be cleaned regularly Soaking the fil
71. rges 56 SOLUTIONS TO COMMON PLUMBING SYSTEM PROBLEMS PROBLEM LIKELY CAUSE SOLUTION No hot water from electric water heater Tripped circuit breaker or temperature setting is too low Check and reset circuit breaker or adjust temperature setting Hot water recovery is slow Burned out heating element Replace heating element Check circuit breaker Toilet runs constantly Water level in tank is too high Adjust float arm stem in toilet water tank downward Toilet makes loud noise Ball cock in water tank is Replace ball cock in toilet when flushed not working properly water tank Toilet makes dripping or Warped or worn out flapper Replace flapper valve gurgling noise valve Toilet backing up or Obstruction in line Turn toilet intake valve off overflowing and plunge toilet Hose sprayer in kitchen sink drips Dirty of defective Clean or replace Slow draining sink or bathtub Blockage such as hair at drain Remove hair blockage Water flow from faucet is reduced Aerator at tip of faucet is clogged Unscrew aerator screen and rinse Water leaking from under sink Loose plumbing Hand tighten couplings on drain pipes Water splatters out of faucet Air in water supply line Open all faucets in home for 5 minutes Water dripping from shut off valves Loose packing nut Open valve all the way then gently tighten nut Garbage
72. round occurs Normally installed in areas where water may be present Grout A white or colored plaster like mortar compound used to fill spaces between ceramic tiles Header A heavy timber and or concrete beam that spans open spaces in walls over doors and windows and provides support to structural members above it Hip Roof A roof that rises by inclined planes from all four sides of a building Honeycomb In concrete an open cell like surface texture that occurs while pouring the concrete Hose Bib An exterior faucet connection for lawn and garden hoses 71 Insulation Any material high in resistance to heat transmission that when placed in the walls ceilings or floors of a structure will reduce the rate of heat flow Jamb The side and headlining of a doorway window or other opening Joint Compound A plaster like compound used with drywall tape to join sheets of drywall into a smooth continuous panel Joists The horizontal support members used in constructing a floor Keeper Plate The metal plate that keeps a door lock latch firmly in place Lockset A door lock Louver An opening with a series of horizontal slats so arranged as to permit ventilation but to exclude rain sunlight or vision Masonry Stone brick concrete hollow tile concrete block gypsum block or other similar building units or materials or a combination of the same bonded together with mortar to
73. rs to cover and repair cabinet nicks and scratches The homeowner is responsible for fading damage or delamination caused by heat steam or water intrusion 13 TYPICAL ANSWERS TO CABINET ISSUES Issue Probable Cause Answer Cabinet door does not close Door hinge is out of Adjust the hinges properly adjustment Cabinet door bangs when closing Missing cabinet bumper pads Install new bumper pads Adjustable shelves not at desired height Shelf clips are in the wrong position Remove shelf one side at a time Move clips to desired position Replace shelf one side at a time Cabinet drawer sticks Drawer glides are out of alignment or debris is in the track Realign track and check for debris Spray with silicone Scratch or dent in cabinet Normal use Fill crack or dent with colored putty Cabinet finish is dull Cabinet is dirty Clean with soap and water Use mild furniture polish Do not use lemon oil Cabinet swelling from moisture Water leak or putting wet dishes in cabinet Check for water leaks Dry dishes thoroughly 14 CONCRETE Foundation and Floor Slabs In monolithic construction the floor slab garage slab foundations and footings are all poured in concrete at the same time Most builders use heavily reinforced concrete monolithic slab construction In some states in order to prepare the soil for the foundation a termite spray is appli
74. spouts should not leak but may overflow during heavy rain After severe storms a visual inspection of the roof damage is called for notify your homeowner s insurance is there is storm damage noted D Vents Vents should remain unobstructed year round If your home has soffit vents and or ridge vents they should be cleared of debris Ridge bents should be checked periodically to ensure they are secure and have not come loose in high winds Also check that these vents have not been stepped on and deformed Blocked air vents usually cause excessive heat buildup in the attic This condition can be resolved by clearing all obstructions away from the vents to allow proper heat release There are a variety of attic vents that could be used on your home The different types can be soffit vents located in the eaves of your roof ridge vents found at the peak of your roof and attic vents sometimes known as whirly birds turtlebacks and mushrooms Familiarize yourself with all the different vents on your home TYPICAL ANSWERS TO ROOFING ISSUES ISSUE PROBABLE CAUSE ANSWER Roof leakage Loose flashing Loose pipe Secure and re seal flashing collars and pipe collars Roof leakage Loose or missing shingles Secure and or replace loose and or vents or missing shingles roof vents Roof leakage Rain blowing into vents Normal during severe storms Shingle not laying flat Fastener loose Re seal shingle 64 SECURITY
75. stics of real wood Clean wood cabinets with the same gentle care you would give any fine wood furniture A light coat of wax or lemon oil applied once or twice a year will protect the finish and enhance the appearance Cabinet mounted coffee makers are not recommended since the rising steam will damage solid wood and wood veneer causing fading or delamination For the same reason position regular coffee makers out from underneath the upper cabinets and near the front of the counter Laminate Cabinets Clean laminate cabinets with a soapy cloth or sponge using a non abrasive liquid household cleanser for more stubborn stains There are one step cleaning products available for laminates that clean reduce streaking and leave surfaces polished As with all cleaning products carefully follow the manufacturer s instructions 12 Shelves Shelves are not designed to hold weight that exceeds 20 pounds per square foot Keep canned goods flour sugar and heavier products on the bottom shelf of the base cabinets If desired apply contact paper to shelves to protect against scratches and stains Drawer and Hinge Care Check the hinges at least once a year for proper alignment and tightness using a screwdriver to make necessary adjustments Check drawers for easy movement and apply a silicone spray to the drawer guides should sticking occur Repairing Nicks and Scratches Hardware stores offer color matching putty stains and polymer fille
76. te an attic space Ball Cock A device in a flush toilet consisting of a valve connected by a lever to a floating ball The valve closes when the ball is raised and opens when it is lowered Baseboard A decorative and protective wood molding positioned where the wall meets the floor Base Molding Molding used to trim the upper edge of interior baseboards Beam A structural member transversely supporting a load Bearing Wall A wall that supports any vertical load in addition to its own weight Brace An inclined piece of framing lumber applied to wall or floor to stiffen the structure Often used on walls as temporary bracing until framing has been completed Brick Veneer A facing of brick laid against and fastened to sheathing of a frame or tile wall Casing Molding of various widths and thicknesses used to trim floor and window openings at the jambs 69 Caulk Caulk is a building joint sealant used where two dissimilar materials are joined In time caulk hardens and cracks and should be renewed prior to any painting Circuit Breaker A switching device located in the main electrical panel that opens and closes electrical circuits and automatically shuts off electricity to a circuit should it become overloaded Once the electrical load is reduced the breaker switch can be turned back on to resume normal service Concrete Dusting A fine dust that accumulates on finished concrete surfaces C
77. ters or lightly brushing them in hot soapy water is the best cleaning method Be sure the filters are dry before reinstalling them Microwaves Oven Be sure that vent louvers are not blocked TYPICAL ANSWERS TO APPLIANCE ISSUES Issue Probable Cause Answer Electric appliance not Check circuit breaker Reset breaker or call working Appliance Service Department Garbage disposal not Clogged Refer to Manufacturer s working Manual Garbage disposal odor Normal Run ice cubes through the unit Range hood not filtering Dirty filter Clean or replace the filter properly Dishwasher not cleaning properly Obstructed water flow Check for proper loading of dishwasher Water spots on dishes or glasses in dishwasher Not using a rinse agent Use rinse agent recommended by the manufacturer Refrigerator not making ice Icemaker not turned on or water is not turned on Turn on Condensation around refrigerator door Temperature control is incorrectly set Reset the temperature control Clothes dryer not drying properly Lint build up Check dryer filter Make sure the dryer vent is clear Clothes washer leaking on floor Washer drain line not installed correctly Install drain line correctly ATTIC Introduction The attic space below the roof is part of the truss system When inspecting the attic walk on the wood members onl
78. tery is low Change the 9 volt battery every 6 months to ensure proper operation STAIRS Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines No known method of installation prevents all vibration or squeaks in a staircase A shrinkage crack may develop where the stairs meet the wall If this occurs apply a thin bead of latex caulk and when dry touch up with paint 30 EXTERIOR WALL FINISHES Introduction Exterior finishes are applied once the exterior framing and or concrete block is complete The exterior of your home may be finished with stucco brick siding and stone A Brick Brick is used extensively throughout the United States It is probably the lowest maintenance finish of all home exterior finishes The mortar between the bricks may require some tuck pointing filling in as your home ages The weep holes in the brick are there to allow moisture out Do not fill these holes or allow landscaping material to cover them Efflorescence is a white powdery substance that may appear on the exterior walls It is normal and is composed of water soluble salts originally present in masonry materials that are brought to and deposited on the surface when water evaporates Most efflorescence can be removed with a stiff scrub brush water and vinegar 31 B Stone Veneer Slight variations in size color and placement create the textural interest that contributes to the look of a stone exterior Minor stone chipping
79. tors to the bottom of furniture legs to protect the hardwood flooring from scuffing and surface damage High heel shoes and constant moving of chairs can damage hardwood floors Extra care is required to keep hardwood floors dry and to promptly mitigate any unusual water intrusion that could occur C Resilient Floor Coverings Resilient floor coverings come in 6 foot or 12 foot wide rolls and are usually installed in kitchens bathrooms and laundry areas Before cleaning a resilient floor read and follow the manufacturer s cleaning and care recommendations Do not wax a no wax floor 39 Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Mop up bathroom water spills from showers and baths immediately Water seeping into the mastic through the seams and under the baseboard trim can cause mildew seam separation and lifting A flexible caulk available at hardware stores is recommended for use at tub and floor joints to minimize this problem Attach furniture protectors to the bottom of furniture legs to protect the resilient flooring from scuffing and surface damage High heel shoes and constant moving of chairs may show and may damage resilient floor coverings 40 TYPICAL ANSWERS TO FLOORING AND FINISH ISSUES ISSUE PROBABLE CAUSE ANSWER Carpet seams are noticeable Fibers separate from vacuuming and normal traffic Vacuum carpet in same direction as seams Carpet fades near window and doors Excessive
80. ugh a finished exposed surface so that the flat top of the nail head is still visible after nailing 70 Facia or Fascia The exterior horizontal trim around rafters Also positioned directly behind gutters and over gable trim boards Filler Board Cabinet grade wood used to fill gaps that occur between cabinets and wall openings Fillers A wood putty used in preparation for painting to fill holes or cracks in wood Flashing Sheet metal or other material used in roof and wall construction to protect a building from rainwater penetrating the house structure Flue A vertical duct constructed of sheet metal or clay that channels smoke from a fireplace out of the home Footing A masonry section usually concrete in a rectangular form wider than the bottom of the foundation wall or pier it supports Foundation The supporting portion of a structure below the first floor construction or below grade including the footings Frame Construction A type of construction in which the structural parts are wood or depend upon a wood frame for support Gable The portion of the roof above the eave line of a double sloped roof Gabled Louvers A vent with louvers located at the peak of gable ends Graphite Lubricant A finely powdered graphite used as a lubricant Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter GFCID A specialized electrical device that will interrupt electrical power where a weak electrical loss of g
81. use swelling or delamination of the counter top Check seams periodically and re caulk as necessary If counter tops or back splashes swell or buckle it may be due to not maintaining the caulking This is an important part of your routine maintenance Cultured Marble Vanity Tops Clean cultured marble with a damp cloth and a non abrasive detergent When re caulking use a flexible caulk Use of a gel gloss or aerosol spray may be used for polishing 18 Counter Top Precautions Keep counter top dry at all times Excessive heat can cause charring burning lifting or blistering Do not place hot pans coffee pots baking dishes hot irons or burning cigarettes directly on counter top surfaces Use protective hot pads or trivets under counter top electrical appliances Always use a cutting board since knives will cut the surface of the counter top Steam from an open dishwasher may cause swelling and delamination Allow time for the dishwasher to cool before opening the door To further reduce moisture damage apply a silicone spray to the underside of counter tops directly over the dishwasher and two feet left and right of the dishwasher Do not use clean silicone caulk as it yellows with age and stains easily 19 DOORS Introduction Your home comes with a variety of doors which may include interior doors French doors louver doors bi fold doors sliding glass doors exterior doors and garage doors A I
82. water faucet valves Weather Stripping A weather insulation strip of material placed around doors and windows to reduce water entry into the home Also reduces air infiltration into the home or the escape of conditioned air out of the home Washouts An area where water has produced soil erosion Window Balance A counter balance device in window housings that assists with the opening and closing of a window and then keeps the window in position 74
83. y The drywall ceiling of the room below is not designed to support any weight Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines The attic truss system is not engineered to support additional weight and should not be used for any storage purpose Materials stored can also be a fire hazard Do not cover any vents with insulation or any other material Insulation on the attic floor is for the thermal protection of the rooms below If the insulation is moved it will leave gaps between the insulation panels and may obstruct the attic vents Always replace moved insulation back to its original position Building codes require attic and crawl space vents to minimize accumulation of moisture Attic ventilation occurs through vents in the soffit the underside of the overhangs or on gable ends Driving rain or snow sometimes enters the attic through these vents Do not cover them to prevent this Instead cover the insulation in front of the vent When you do this precipitation that blows in safely evaporates and ventilation can still occur 10 BATHROOM MAINTENANCE Homeowner s Maintenance Guidelines Mildew Moisture and mildew problems will occur in any room where water vapor is present To reduce mildew turn on the exhaust fan or slightly open a window when bathing Wipe off wet tiles when done and then hang up towels and washcloths to dry To clean mildewed surfaces and reduce mildew odors apply a liquid mildew agent in a well ventilated ro
84. y does not cover claims that were caused by the homeowner 1 Dampness or condensation due to failure of the homeowner to maintain adequate ventilation Negligence in proper maintenance Any abuse of the home 4 Any failure of the purchaser to give notice to Regent Homes of the deficiencies or defects within a reasonable time 5 Any of the above conditions resulting from the home being occupied for any length of time 6 Any of the above conditions resulting from the home being rented or leased to another party ALL OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESS OR IMPLIED INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE WARRANTY OR MERCHANT ABILITY HABITABILITY AND SUITABILITY FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE IS HERBY DISCLAIMED REGENT HOMES A D R Horton Company 8001 Arrowridge Blvd Charlotte NC 28273 704 377 2006 DATE O 30 Day Warranty List O 11 Month Warranty List O Warranty Item See your Acceptance Walk List Review the list of items that Are Not covered under warranty DATE OF CLOSING LOT NO COMMUNITY NAME OF HOMEOWNER ADDRESS oO HOME PHONE BEST TIME TO CALL WORK PHONE THE HOMEOWNER NEEDS TO BE PRESENT IN ORDER FOR WORK TO BE PERFORMED List below the items that need attention Be specific and provide as much information as possible 1 O Done 2 O Done 3 O Done 4 O Done 5 O Done ALL ITEMS HAVE BEEN COMPLETED IN A SATISFACTORY MANNER HOMEOWNER S SIGNATURE DATE REGENT HOMES INC REPRESENTATIVE DATE R

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