Your home either has no attic or an attic access for maintenance of mechanical systems that may traverse the attic space between the roof trusses and the roof. It is mainly used for firefighting and inspection access. 

When you perform needed tasks in the attic space, use caution to avoid damaging the drywall ceiling below— which is not covered by your limited warranty. 

Read and follow all manufacturers’ instructions for the use and maintenance of each appliance in your home and keep them available for reference.

Manufacturer’s Service

If a problem arises with an appliance, call the customer service number listed in the manufacturer’s warranty. When reporting warranty items to the appliance manufacturer, be prepared to supply the following details:

• Date of Purchase (Your closing date)

• Serial and model numbers (found on a metal plate or sticker on the side or bottom of each appliance)

• Description of the problem

Registration: Mail warranty registration cards directly to the manufacturer. 

Expect differences in grain and color between and within the cabinet components, due to natural variations in wood and the way it takes stain or paint.  After time, the sun’s UV rays can affect the color of these surfaces.

Cleaning

Cabinets may be cleaned with a damp cloth and dried immediately.  Murphy’s Soap in a dilute water solution used according to instructions on the packaging is a good all-purpose cleaner for cabinets.

 Hinges

If hinges catch or drawer glides become sluggish, a small amount of silicone lubricant may improve their performance.

Moisture

Damage to cabinet surfaces and warping can result from operating appliances that generate large amounts of moisture (such as a coffee pot, crock-pot or rice cooker) too near or under a cabinet. When operating such appliances, place them in a location that is not directly abutting or under a cabinet.

The finish material is water resistant, not waterproof. Therefore, when water is spilled onto the cabinets, self-edge, or back splash, it must be wiped off. If you allow the water to stand on the lacquer, it will damage the finish. Kitchen and bathroom sinks are areas where water damage is most evident, so take care to wipe away water in these areas promptly.

Your home is supplied with a carbon monoxide detector on each floor.  Read the manufacturer’s manual for more detailed information on the care of your carbon monoxide detector. 

They are hard-wired for primary power and contain a 9-volt battery to serve as backup. 

The homeowner should change batteries per manufacturer’s recommendations, but generally once per year. If you hear the carbon monoxide detector beep or chirp, it needs to have the backup battery replaced. 

Cleaning

For your safety, clean the carbon monoxide detector monthly to prevent a false alarm or lack of response. After cleaning, push the test button to confirm the alarm is working.

Cleaning

You can add years to the life of your carpet with regular care and cleaning. 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 to avoid wearing street shoes in the house and to vacuum the carpet frequently. Heavy traffic areas may require more frequent cleaning. A vacuum cleaner with a beater-bar agitates the pile and is more effective in bringing dirt to the surface for easy removal. Have your carpet regularly cleaned by a professional.

Crushing

Furniture and traffic may crush a carpet’s pile fibers. Frequent vacuuming in high-traffic areas and placing glides or cups under heavy places 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 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 sunlight and other natural forces in the environment. You can delay this process by frequently removing soil with vacuuming, keeping humidity and room temperature from getting too high, and reducing sunlight exposure with window coverings.

Rippling

With wall-to-wall carpeting, high humidity may cause rippling. If the carpet remains rippled after the humidity has dropped, have a professional re-stretch the carpet using a power stretcher. 

Seams

Carpet 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.

Shading

Shading is an inherent quality of fine-cut pile carpets. Household traffic causes pile fibers to assume different angles and 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 usually occurs more with wool carpeting than with nylon or other synthetics.

Snags

Consult manufacturer for recommendations.

Stains

Clean all stains immediately. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations. For best results, blot or dab any spill or stain: avoid rubbing. No carpet is stain proof but for best results apply stain blockers such as 3M Scotch-guard spray.  

Static

Cooler temperatures outside often contribute to static electricity inside. To alleviate the problem, keep humidity levels higher or install a humidifier to help control static build-up.

External Caulk

Time and weather will shrink and dry materials and caulking so that it no longer provides a proper seal. As routine maintenance, check the caulking at all penetrations in the siding and especially around windows and doors.  Make the needed repairs promptly. Caulking compounds and dispenser guns are available at hardware stores. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to be certain that you select an appropriate long-lasting caulk for the intended purpose.

Interior Caulk

Check all areas exposed to moisture on a regular basis, especially showers, baths and backsplashes. Wet areas where a vertical surface meets a horizontal surface (such as the bottom of shower or tub walls or where a backsplash meets a countertop) must be checked and re-caulked regularly.  Any sign of caulk failure at the seams should be corrected immediately.

Cleaning

Ceramic tile is one of the easiest floor coverings to maintain-- simply vacuum when needed. Occasionally, a wet mopping with warm water and may be appropriate. If you feel a cleaning agent is required, use any nonabrasive soap, detergent or tile cleaner. Strong bleach-based sprays or abrasive cleansers may permanently dull the finish.

Grout Discoloration

Grout discoloration may happen with time, and use.

Sealing Grout

All new grout needs to be sealed by you. Once grout has been sealed, ongoing maintenance of that seal is necessary as regular homeowner maintenance. Sealer must be reapplied within 3 to 6 months, depending on use. Although no product prevents stains entirely, it is intended to provide resistance to stains.

Separations and cracks

Separations in grout should be repaired immediately. Cracks in the grout can be filled using premixed grout purchased from flooring or hardware stores. Follow package directions.

Caulking

The caulking around plumbing fixtures, countertop and the wall, along the joint at the backsplash and around the sink may shrink, leaving a slight gap. Maintaining a good seal in these locations is important to keep moisture from reaching the wood surfaces and to prevent warping. If cracks develop in areas where water can penetrate, they should be caulked and sealed immediately.

Exterior concrete flatwork does not need a great deal of care.  It can best be maintained through good drainage of your home’s foundation and the concrete flatwork--the ground floor, porch, patio, driveway, garage floor, and sidewalks. Most concrete slabs are floating. These are not a structural (load-bearing) element of the home and are not covered by structural warranty.  

Cleaning

We recommend sweeping to keep exterior concrete clean. If washing is necessary, do this when temperatures are moderate.

Cracks

Cracking of concrete flatwork is normal and is the result of temperature changes that cause expansion and contraction or subsoil settling.

Efflorescence

Efflorescence is a crystalline and typically white deposit that may appear on the surface, causing it to appear bleached or spotted, seeming to lose color. Efflorescence originates from cement and can leach through and appear as a deposit on the surface of the concrete. Efflorescence can usually be removed by dry-brushing the surface and then flushing the surface with plenty of clean water to remove the dislodged salts.

Expansion Joints

Exterior Concrete:

We install expansion joints to limit cracking.

Interior concrete and garage slabs:

Control joints are cut in and designed to control cracking.  These do not completely eliminate cracks.

Heavy Vehicles

Do not permit heavy vehicles such as moving vans or concrete trucks to drive on your concrete work. We design and install this concrete for residential use only.

Ice, Snow, and Chemicals

Driving or parking on snow creates compacted ice on the drive, which magnifies the effects of snow on the concrete surface. Remove ice and snow from concrete slabs as promptly as possible after snowstorms. Protect concrete from abuse by chemical agents, such as road salt that can drip from vehicles. All of these items can cause spalling (chipping of the surface) and staining of the concrete.

Condensation on interior surfaces of the windows and frames comes from high humidity within the home, combined with low outside temperatures and inadequate ventilation. Family lifestyle significantly influences these conditions. Make sure to run the bathroom fan while showering or bathing and for a minimum of 15 minutes afterward.  Make sure to use the vent fan hood when cooking and baking to remove excess moisture from the air.  If you install a humidifier, closely observe the manufacturer’s directions for its use, especially during periods of cooler temperatures. 

See also Ventilation or Windows

Protection

Use a cutting board to protect your counters and knives when you cut or chop. Protect counter from heat and from extremely hot pans.

Caulking

The caulking between the countertop and the wall, along the joint at the backsplash and around the sink may shrink, leaving a slight gap. Maintaining a good seal in these locations is imperative to keep moisture from reaching the wood surfaces and to prevent damage. If cracks develop in areas where water can penetrate, they should be sealed immediately.

Cleaning

Avoid abrasive cleaners that may damage the luster of the surface.

We spray your foundation walls with damp-proofing material. Although we make every effort to assure a dry basement, during times of excessive moisture, you may notice some dampness caused by condensation. Careful landscape maintenance and positive drainage away from foundation are essential.

Your home contains composite decking material that needs very little maintenance.  Decks should be cleaned periodically. Do not use harsh bleach-based solutions or abrasive cleansers.  Remove dirt and debris by lightly scrubbing them with a mild detergent solution and rinse with clear water.  Plants and planters on deck systems should be kept raised or mobile to allow continued maintenance and equalize ultraviolet exposure. Replace protective covers on patio furniture feet, as needed to avoid damaging the surface. Place a protective tray under a grill to eliminate damage from hot grease or dropped ashes. Planters and artwork left in the same location for any length of time can result in permanent staining and fading. 

The wood doors installed in your home are subject to shrinkage and warping. Due to the natural fluctuations of humidity, doors may occasionally require minor adjustments. 

Exterior Finish

To ensure longer life for your exterior doors, maintain the finish. Clean and inspect wood doors often. We recommend recoating your wood door periodically. Door staining or recoating is considered a homeowner maintenance item. These products can be found at your local hardware store.

Sliding Glass Doors

Make sure to keep the track free of dirt, gravel and debris. Use a silicone-based lubricant periodically to prevent sticking.

Hinges

You can remedy a squeaky door hinge by raising the hinge pin and applying a spray silicone.

Interior Keys

Interior privacy locks can be unlocked using the provided emergency key or with a very small flathead screw driver.

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 loosens the hardware and causes the door to sag and stick.

Stain & Finish 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.

Sticking

The most common cause of a sticking door is the natural expansion of lumber due to changes in humidity. Consult a professional to adjust.

Warping

If a door warps slightly, keeping it closed as much as possible and this often returns it to normal.

Weather-Stripping

Weather-stripping and exterior door thresholds occasionally require adjustment. Inspect weather-stripping as part of your periodic home inspection and replace when necessary to prevent drafts and maintain a proper seal.

Clean dryer lint filters after every use.  Keep dryer vents free of lint, debris and other obstructions in order to maintain efficiency and avoid fire hazard.   Inspect dryer duct annually.

Slight cracking, nail pops, or seams may be visible in walls and ceilings. These flaws are typically caused by expansion and contraction of the framing members and normal deflection of rafters to which the drywall is attached.

With the exception of the year-end warranted repair service provided by Everton, care of drywall is your maintenance responsibility.

Know the location of the breaker panel; it includes a main shut-off that controls all the electrical power to the home. Individual breakers control the separate circuits. Each breaker is marked to help you identify which breaker is connected to which major appliance, outlet, or other service. Should a failure occur in any part of your home, always first check to see if the GFCI switch (see below) has been activated.  Next check the breakers in the electrical panel box.

Breakers

Circuit breakers have three positions: on, off, and tripped. When a circuit breaker trips, it must first be turned off before it can be turned on. Switching the breaker directly from tripped to the on position will not restore service.

Breaker Tripping

Breakers trip due to overloads caused by plugging too many appliances into the circuit, a worn cord, or defective appliance, or due to operating an appliance with too high a voltage requirement for the circuit. The starting of an electric motor can also trip a breaker.

If any circuit trips repeatedly, unplug all items connected to it and reset it. If it trips when nothing is connected to it, you need to contact an electrician. If the circuit remains on, one of the items you unplugged is defective and will require repair or replacement.

AFCI (Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters)

These are located in the electrical panel in the garage. Usually they have a colored test button on the individual breaker; AFCI’s are attached to bedroom outlets, and are very sensitive. If an electrical appliance cord is pulled out suddenly, the AFCI is often tripped. If you don’t have power in a bedroom outlet, go to the garage, check the AFCI breakers, and reset if needed.

Buzzing

Fluorescent fixtures, doorbells, dimmers, and security systems use transformer action to operate. This action sometimes causes a slight buzzing sound and is perfectly normal.

Fixture Location

We install light fixtures in the locations indicated on the plans. Moving fixtures to accommodate specific furniture arrangements or room use is your responsibility.

GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters) 

GFCI receptacles have a built-in element that senses fluctuations in power. Quite simply, the GFCI is a sensitive circuit breaker. Building codes require installation of these receptacles in bathrooms, utility rooms, the kitchen, outside, and the garage (areas where an individual can come into contact with water while holding an electric appliance or tool). Heavy appliances such as freezers, power tools or garage door openers may trip the GFCI breaker.

Do not plug a refrigerator or food freezer into a GFCI-controlled outlet. The likelihood of the contents being ruined is high and the limited warranty does not cover such damage. Although each GFCI circuit has a test and reset button, each receptacle may not. There may be multiple receptacles on the GFCI circuit. Once each month, press the test button. This will trip the circuit. To return service, press the reset button. If a GFCI breaker trips during normal use, it may indicate a faulty appliance. One GFCI breaker can control multiple outlets. Familiarize yourself with their function and locations.

Grounded System

Your electrical system is a three-wire grounded system. Never remove the bare wire (ground) that connects to the box or device.

Light Bulbs

You are responsible for replacing burned-out bulbs. Compact fluorescent bulbs are generally not designed to work in conjunction with dimmers.  All exterior lights are, by current code, equipped with energy efficient 2-pin compact florescent bulbs.

Modifications

If you wish to make any modifications, contact the electrician listed in your Emergency Contacts. Having another electrician modify your electrical system during the warranty period can void that portion of your limited warranty.

Outlets

If an outlet is not working, check first to see if it’s controlled by a wall switch or GFCI. Next, check the breaker. If it’s a bedroom outlet: see AFCI above. If there are small children in the home, consider using safety plugs to cover unused outlets.

Underground Cables

Before digging, always check the location of buried service leads by calling the local utility locating service. Dial 811 to contact utility locating service.

Changes in temperature and humidity cause building materials to expand and contract. Dissimilar materials expand or contract at different rates. This movement results in separation between materials. It is normal to see the effects in small cracks in drywall and in paint, especially where moldings meet drywall, at mitered corners and where tile grout meets hardwood floors, tub, or sink. Shrinkage of wood components occurs in every new home, especially during the first year. In most cases, caulk and paint are all that are needed to repair these areas. Even though properly installed, caulking shrinks and cracks. 

Maintenance of caulking is your responsibility.

Read and follow manufacturer’s directions and any supplemental instructions. A slight delay between turning the switch on and igniting the flame is normal. If you notice a gas odor, immediately shut off the gas supply and report it to the Gas Company.

When the fireplace is new, it can take three, eight-hour burns to eliminate the smell of a new appliance.

The exterior vent cover for a direct-vent gas fireplace becomes extremely hot when the fireplace is operating. Do not leave any items in contact with this vent cover as this may cause fire.  Avoid touching this vent cover during or within 30 minutes after use to avoid burns.

If your fireplace ignites with a pilot light, excessive winds may cause a backdraft, which can blow out the pilot light, requiring you to relight it before using the fireplace.

We install the foundation of your home according to the recommendation of our structural engineer. To protect your home’s foundation, follow guidelines for installation and maintenance of landscaping and drainage.

Cracks

Even though an engineer designed the foundation and we constructed it according to the engineering requirements, surface cracks can still develop. Surface cracks are not detrimental to the structural integrity of your home. If a crack develops in a foundation wall that allows water to come through, consult a damp-proofing professional.

Due to the amount of water in concrete, ground floor walls and basements may be damp.

If you decide to perform additional construction in your home, obtain guidelines from a licensed engineer, apply for a building permit, and comply with all codes and safety requirements. Contact the homeowner’s association board before making any changes to the exterior of your home.

(See manufacturer’s guide for more specific instructions)

Lubrication

Oil door rollers, bearings and hinges as needed using silicone lubricant or light oil. At the same time, check to see that all hardware is tight and operating as intended without binding or scraping. Avoid over-lubricating to prevent drips on vehicles or the concrete floor. Do not lubricate plastic parts.

Safety

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe and reliable operation. Do not allow anyone except the operator near the door when it is in motion. Keep hands and fingers away from all parts of the door except the handle. 

Do not allow children to play with or around the door. For your safety, have any needed adjustments made by a qualified specialist. Have the door inspected by a professional garage door technician after any significant impact to the door. 

The electronic sensor on either side of the door provides a safety stop in the event someone crosses through the opening while the overhead door is in motion. Use care not to interfere with the function of the electronic sensors.

The final grades around your home have been designed, built and field-inspected for proper drainage of your lot. City inspectors as well as the Everton Homes Project Managers have inspected the site.

Drainage

The grade around your home should generally slope away from your foundation. Note that drainage swales do not always parallel property boundaries. Maintain the slopes around your home to permit the water to drain away from the home as rapidly as possible. This is essential to protect your foundation. Failure to do so can result in major structural damage.

Rototilling

Rototilling can significantly change drainage swales. You can minimize this by rototilling parallel to the swales, rather than across them.

Grout is used around ceramic, glass and natural stone tile. It is porous and should be re-sealed every 3 to 6 months, depending on use.

See also Ceramic Tile or Natural Stone or Cleaning Products

Cleaning

Gutters, downspouts and valleys should be checked periodically and cleaned annually. Materials that accumulate in gutters can slow water drainage from the roof, cause overflows, and clog the downspouts and drain lines.

Ladders

Use caution when leaning ladders against gutters, as this may cause dents and/or scrape paint.

Leaks

If a joint between sections of gutter drips, caulk the inside joint using a commercial gutter caulking compound available at most hardware stores….

Snow and Ice

Clear excess snow from downspouts and gutters as soon as possible after a snowstorm to allow them to drain properly. Severe ice or snow build-up can damage gutters and potentially cause interior water damage. 

In daily care of hardwood floors, preventive maintenance is the primary goal.

Recommendations

• Avoid wearing street shoes inside the house, especially high heels.

• Remove dust and abrasive particles on a daily basis or as needed.

• Use only approved floor cleaner for your specific species and product.

• Spray floor cleaner directly onto micro-fiber mob head, not on the floor

• Place rugs or mats in front of sinks, refrigerators and entry doors.

• Apply Floor Protectors to the legs of furniture and chairs to protect hardwoods.

Avoid the following actions

• Using a very wet mop on a hardwood floor. Excessive water causes wood to expand and can damage the floor.

• Using vinegar and water to clean the hardwoods.

• Using harsh household detergents, ammonia-based cleaners, bleach or abrasive cleaners that will damage the surface.

Dents

Placing heavy furniture or dropping heavy or sharp objects onto hardwoods can result in dents.

Expansion and Contraction of Wood

Wood will expand and contract seasonally. You may hear some creaking or cracking sounds at times when ypu walk on your hardwood floors as the wood settles.  

Your family living patterns: cooking, showering, laundry and pets also affect moisture levels in the home, and thus your hardwood floor. Keep the relative humidity between 30-60%. Humidity can be measured with a hygrometer. Inexpensive versions are available at electronics stores. Keep your house between 60-72 degrees Fahrenheit. Expect some shrinkage around heat vents or any heat-producing appliances. Contraction occurs most frequently during the winter months when the heating system causes drying of the wood. This condition is typically self-corrected with the humidity of summer.

Mats and Rugs

Rugs or mats may be used in areas where repeated moisture could damage hardwood. Do not allow the moisture to saturate the rug. Expect some slight discoloration under the rugs from lack of ultraviolet exposure.

Spills

Clean up spills immediately with a dry cloth. Make sure to dry floors.

Sun Exposure

Exposure to direct sunlight can cause irreparable damage to hardwood floors. To preserve the beauty of your hardwood floors, install and use window coverings in these areas. 

Warping

Warping will occur if the floor becomes wet or is thoroughly soaked even once.

Your home is equipped with a water heater that heats circulation loops of water for domestic hot water.  Please check the manual for further information on your system.  Your home is heated by a heat pump connected to an Air Handler, or Mini-Split system. This system should only be adjusted or repaired by a qualified technician. 

Thermostats

For maximum efficiency and comfort, each heating system has one thermostat, controlling heat for various areas of your home. The heating system will come on automatically when the temperature at the thermostat registers below the setting you have selected. Thermostats are calibrated within plus or minus 3 degrees. 

The thermostat has time scheduling capabilities. 

Read the thermostat manual for programming instructions.  While these thermostats are programmable, it is best if they are simply set at a given temperature.  If the system is programmed to too rapidly drop the temperature during the workday and at night and to be heated only during the morning and evening, this can lead to an efficiency loss.  Moreover, it can lead to rapid expansion and contraction of the hardwood floors that can lead to gapping and irregularities in the hardwood finish.

If you wish to program your thermostats to save on heating the house during the workday and at night, avoid sudden temperature changes of more than 1 degree per hour.

In-Floor Heat 

Warm wire electrical mats with programmable thermostat are located in your bathrooms under the tile flooring.

You have one of the following heating systems:

Air Handlers and Forced Air Furnace System

A forced-air central heating system is one which uses air as its heat transfer medium.  These systems rely on ductwork, vents and plenums as means of air distribution.  All air handlers consist of an air filter, heat exchanger/element/coil, and various controls.

Heat Pumps and Mini Split

A ductless mini-split system can provide both heating and cooling to your home.  This system has an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling unit.  A conduit, which houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain, links the outdoor and indoor units.  See owner manual for maintenance. 

Gas Odor

Turn off the gas at main shut off and call the gas company immediately if you smell a strong odor of gas.

On-Off Switch

The heating system has an on-off switch. This switch looks like a regular light switch and is located near the system. When turned off, this switch overrides all other commands and shuts the power off to the air handler or furnace so that it can be serviced. If the air handler or furnace is not operational, verify this switch is turned on. 

It is strongly recommended that you do not shut off your system unless it is getting maintenance.

The Everton Homes warranty does not cover landscaping. It is your responsibility to carefully maintain the yard. Consult your CCR’s for specific community landscaping requirements.

Backfill

The area excavated for your home’s foundation was larger than the home to allow room to work. Some trenching was also necessary for installation of utility lines. Settling may occur, especially after prolonged or heavy precipitation, and can continue for several years. Inspect the perimeter of your home regularly for signs of settling and fill settled areas as needed to maintain positive drainage.

Make sure all downspouts are connected to the drainage system. Routine inspection of backfill areas, downspouts and other drainage components is a part of proper maintenance.

See also Grading and Drainage.

Bark or Rock Beds

Do not allow edgings around decorative rock or bark beds to dam the free flow of water away from the home. You can use a non-woven landscape fabric between the soil and rock or bark to restrict weed growth while still permitting normal evaporation of ground moisture.

Modifications

You are responsible for changes to the drainage pattern made by any landscape: concrete, deck, or other contractor. Discuss drainage with any company you hire to do an installation in your yard. Do not permit them to tie into existing drainage pipes without approval from the City.

Irrigation System

Your home has been planted with a variety of different plants. Some of the planting may require more or less watering than others.  You will need to water your plants, especially during the critical first two years after planting when they have yet to completely establish their root systems.  Alternatively contact a landscape professional to make provision for an efficient automatic watering system using the irrigation timer installed on your home. Conduct weekly operational checks to ensure proper performance of the system. Ensure sprinkler heads are operational and directed away from your home.

Winterize your system before the first freeze. Have the lines professionally drained. This will protect your system from damage caused by freezing. 

Plant section

Plant selection should be made based on your local climate. Favor native over exotic species. Consider the size, shape, and sun exposure of the species.

Erosion

Erosion caused by landscaping or drainage changes is your responsibility.

Your home is equipped with a centralized low-voltage panel (LVP) for internet, cable and communications. Low voltage telephone and cable services are run from this panel to locations throughout your home. The configuration will vary by locality and community and will need to be customized to your needs.

Data Ports

These are used to connect two or more computers or devices together with the use of a data hub to various rooms in the home.  This is called a local area network (LAN). You can add high-speed internet known as a wide area network to the LAN by using a router. The router and hub can come as one unit known as a router/switch. We use CAT 6 wire for all data.

Cable Splitter

Cable TV jacks are located throughout the home and these jacks work for either cable TV or satellite. RG-6 quad wire is used for all TV ports.

Mildew and mold spreads through the air via microscopic spores. They can occur naturally and are found everywhere that life can be supported. In order to live, they need moisture and surfaces or dirt to feed on. You can control mold by controlling moisture in and around your home.  On siding, mold looks like a layer of dirt. Cleaning mildew from your home is your responsibility. Solutions that gently remove mildew and mold are available from local paint and hardware stores.

To clean mirrors use any reliable glass cleaner that does not contain dye.

Avoid acidic cleaners and splashing water under the mirror; either can cause the silvering to deteriorate. Avoid getting glass cleaners on plumbing fixtures as this can deteriorate finish as well.

Painted surfaces must be gently wiped using mild soap and as little water as possible. Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or scrub brushes. Flat paints show washing marks more easily than gloss paints. You may prefer the results obtained by touching up rather than washing.

Colors

Your paint colors are located on the paint cans provided as well as the project specifications list for your home.

Flat Paint Characteristics

Flat interior paint has been used in all general areas of your home.  Flat paints, also known as matte paints, are a valuable design tool when used correctly. Because they are non-reflective, they tend to conceal surface blemishes better than paints with more sheen. In a visual sense, these finishes effectively "smooth" walls that have any kind of texture.  This gives the most forgiving finish with the best color payout. If you want a saturated, velvety wall, a flat finish will give you rich results. If your wall has even tiny imperfections (and most all walls do) like slightly uneven texture, patches or joints, flat paint will absorb light and make them less noticeable than a paint with a higher sheen. Aesthetically speaking, sheen or gloss does draw attention to a given surface, especially indoors. This includes even the smallest flaws. For this reason, it is recommended that high-sheen paint be avoided.

One thing to note about flat paint is that because of its matte finish and porous texture, scuffs from brushing up against a wall or from impact with objects will be more easily seen.  The plus side is that with flat paint, touch ups can be more easily done without the need to roll the entire wall again like you would with higher sheen paints.

Exterior

To preserve the beauty and value of your home, check the painted and stained surfaces of your home’s exterior annually. Repaint before chipping or wearing away of the original finish occurs; this will save the cost of extensive surface preparation. Plan on refinishing the exterior surface of your home approximately every three to five years or as often as your paint manufacturer suggests for your area and climate. Over time, this finish will fade and dull.

Avoid having sprinklers spray water on the exterior walls, which will cause damage to your home and can contribute to mold.

Severe Weather

Hail and wind can cause a great deal of damage in a severe storm, so inspect the house after such weather.

Stain

For minor interior stain touch ups, a furniture-polish-and-stain treatment should blend in with the wood grain. Be aware that the same stain on different woods may not match. Stain pens, found at hardware stores can also help with touch-ups but should be applied carefully. Start in an area that is less conspicuous as a test.

Touch Up

When doing paint touch ups, use a small brush or sponge, applying paint only to the damaged spot. Touch up may not match the surrounding area exactly, even if the same paint mix is used. When it is time to repaint a room, prepare the wall surfaces per the manufacturer’s recommendation.

We provide a list of paints used in your home and occasionally leave some of the excess paint for your use. Store these with the lids tightly in a place where they are not subject to extreme temperatures.

Drywall Cracks

Everton Homes addresses dry wall cracks at the time of the year-end warranty. Subsequent cracks are the homeowner’s responsibility.

Water Saving Devices

A range of water-saving regulations went into effect in 2011. This law requires that toilets use no more than 1.28 gallons of water per flush. Flushing twice is occasionally necessary. Even though you flush twice on occasion, rest assured that overall, you are saving water. Hold the lever down for 3 seconds to ensure the full release of water. Not doing so can result in blockages and overflowing toilets.

Flow restrictors are manufactured into most faucets and all showerheads and may not be removable. In compliance with the law, showerheads use only 1.75 gallons of water per minute or less.

Aerators

Even though your plumbing lines have been flushed to remove dirt and foreign matter, small amounts of minerals may enter the line from the city water pipes. Aerators on the faucets strain much of this from your water. Occasional cleaning of the aerators on your faucets (normally every three to four months) will restore the proper flow of water.

Cleaning Fixtures

Follow manufacturer’s directions for cleaning fixtures. Avoid abrasive cleaners or strong chemicals, especially those using lye or bleach.

Toilets

Your toilet is meant to dispose of human waste and normal amounts of toilet paper only.  The main causes of toilet clogs are domestic items such as disposable diapers, paper towels, rags, sanitary supplies, q-tips, dental floss, combs and children’s toys. You can usually clear clogged toilets with a plunger, or if worse with a plumber’s assistance.

If your home required a sewage pump for plumbing fixtures located below the main sewer line, special attention should be taken not to flush thick quilted toilet paper, paper towels, female products, disposable diaper wipes, matches or other items that could obstruct the pump.  Your home has an alarm attached to the sewage ejector pump, which will sound if the pump is not working and the holding tank is full. If the alarm sounds, verify that the sewage ejector pump has power before contacting a plumber. Never use the plumbing while the power is out or the pump is not working.

Garbage Disposals

Garbage disposals are designed to get rid of a limited amount of soft organic matter washed from dishes and cooking utensils. Never put paper, bone, woody matter, meat or grease down the disposal.  Most organic matter should be composted. Use frequently to avoid clogs and always use plenty of cold water when running the disposal. Allow the water to run 10-15 seconds after shutting off the disposal. Improper use of the garbage disposal is a major cause of plumbing blockages.

Extended Absence

If you plan to be away for an extended period, always maintain the heat in your home above 65 degrees to prevent damage.  It may also be necessary to run water in all sinks, tubs, showers and flush toilets to stop the back flow of sewer gases due to evaporation of water in plumbing traps.

If you have basement plumbing, run water and flush toilets on a regular basis to keep the backflow valve in operational order. If your home is vacant for a prolonged period of time, have someone attend to this maintenance.

Freezing Pipes

In unusually frigid weather, open cabinet doors at sinks, to allow warm air to circulate around pipes. Never use an open flame to thaw a frozen pipe.

Leaks

If a major plumbing leak occurs, the first step is to turn off the supply of water to the area involved. As a precaution, shut off the main water supply, then contact a plumber.

Low Pressure

Occasional cleaning of the aerators on your faucets (normally every three to four months) will allow for the proper flow of water. Also, your home may be equipped with pressure reduction valves. Although the water department controls the overall water pressure, it is typically reduced below 90 PSI with a pressure regulator.

Outside Faucets

Outside faucets are frost-free hose bib mechanisms, but in order for this feature to be effective, you must remove hoses during cold weather, even if the faucet is located in your garage. If a hose is left attached, the water that remains in the hose can freeze and expand back into the pipe, causing a break in the line. Repair of a broken or frozen line that feeds an exterior faucet is a maintenance item. In unusually frigid weather or if you will be gone for an extended period over the winter months, you should install insulated hose bib covers as a preventative measure. If the hose bib is located on an unheated wall, turn the water supply off at the shut off, usually located in the garage.

Running Toilet

Use a licensed plumber for plumbing repairs.

Shut-Offs

Your main water shut off is usually located in your garage, ground floor closet, or in the basement storage closet. You use this shut-off for major water emergencies. Each toilet and sinks also have water shut off valves.

Stainless Steel

Clean stainless steel sinks with soap and water to preserve their luster. Avoid abrasive cleaners as these will damage the finish. An occasional cleaning with good stainless steel cleaner (widely available in grocery and hardware stores) will enhance the finish.

Appliance Supply Lines

For frequency of supply line replacement; please refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations and the requirements of your homeowner’s insurance coverage.

Toilet Tank Care

Avoid exposing the toilet to sharp blows or heavy objects, which can cause chipping or cracking. Avoid abnormal pressures against the sides of the tank as this could crack the tank at the points where it is attached to the bowl. Do not use drop-in toilet bowl cleaners in the tank because the chemicals can damage the plumbing fixtures.

The composition of shingles on your roof do not require any treatment or sealer.

Clean the Roof

Moss and tree debris should be removed but DO NOT PRESSURE-WASH YOUR ROOF. Consult a professional to do the work. Neglecting this maintenance responsibility can result in interior leaks and damage.

Clean Gutters

Maintain the gutters and downspouts so that they are free of debris and able to quickly drain precipitation from the roof. Neglecting this maintenance responsibility can result in interior leaks and damages.  It is safest to contact a professional to do this work and can generally be done in conjunction with cleaning the roof.

Leaks

If a leak occurs, contact a licensed roofer immediately.

Severe Weather

After severe storms, do a visual inspection of the roof for damages. Notify us if you find pieces of shingle in the yard or shingle edges lifted on the roof during the first year.

Siding expands and contracts in response to changes in humidity and temperature. Slight waves are visible in siding under certain weather conditions; this cannot be entirely eliminated.

General, Light Cleaning

To remove ordinary dirt and environmental contaminants, hardie siding may be cleaned with a mild detergent solution or commercial grade cleaner. Prepare the surface for cleaning by thoroughly rinsing the wall with clean water to remove surface particles. After applying mild detergent, rinse the wall thoroughly with clean water and remove all traces of loosened dirt and cleaning solution.

Mold and Mildew Stain Removal

Mold and mildew are living organisms, consisting of a root system and a “bloom,” which must be completely removed or killed to stop growth. To kill the roots and remove the bloom, use a fungus or algae remover in conjunction with low-pressure washing. Cold water washing alone will remove the bloom but may actually drive the roots deeper into the finish and create a stronger, healthier growth. Avoid phosphate-based cleaners such as TSP (Tri-Sodium-Phosphate) when cleaning mold and mildew. Although TSP and other phosphate-based cleaners may be useful for removing dirt, mold and mildew thrive on the phosphates.

To treat stains that may remain after mold and mildew removal, apply a solution of 1 part household bleach and 20 parts clean water to the wall with a soft bristle brush. Rinse the wall thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of bleach solution.

Read the manufacturer’s manual for more detailed information on the care of your smoke detectors. They are hard-wired for primary power and contain a 9-volt battery to serve as backup. The homeowner should change batteries per manufacturer’s recommendations, but generally once a year. If you hear the smoke detector beep or chirp, it needs to have the backup battery replaced.  If after replacing the batteries, the smoke detector continues to beep or chirp, push the “hush” button for 20 seconds. This will allow it to properly reset.

Cleaning

For your safety, clean each smoke detector monthly to prevent a false alarm or lack of response to a fire. After cleaning, push the test button to confirm the alarm is working.

Homes today, by code, are built tighter than ever. This saves energy, but also creates responsibilities for the homeowner. Condensation, cooking odors, indoor pollutants, radon, and carbon monoxide may all accumulate in your home, if not properly replaced with fresh air. Your attention to fresh air ventilation and humidity is important to health and safety.

If your lifestyle results in conditions that create more humidity, cooking exhaust, or other pollutants, you may want to increase the amount of fresh air in your home. 

Your daily habits can help keep your home well ventilated:

• It is essential to operate the kitchen cooking exhaust fan when you are cooking, the utility room fan when washing or drying clothes and the bath fans when bathrooms are in use. Open a window slightly when operating these fans.

• Keep all vents in windows open where applicable.

• Verify whole house fan runs a minimum of 2 hours a day.

• Proper ventilation will prevent excessive moisture from forming on the inside of windows. Building codes also require attic and crawl space ventilation to minimize accumulation of moisture. Attic ventilation occurs through roof vents in the soffit (underside of the overhangs) and on gable ends, as applicable. Driving rain or snow may enter the attic through these vents, but not to a degree that would cause concern.

• Homes with crawl spaces include vents in the foundation or wall vents. Never cover any attic or crawl space vents as this will void a number of warranties for your home. 

Carefully read and follow the manufacturer’s literature for your specific model of on-demand water heater.

Temperature

The current building code restricts the maximum temperature for residential use to 120 degrees fahrenheit. Higher settings can result in wasted energy dollars and increase the danger of injury from scalding. Hot water will take longer to arrive at sinks, tubs and showers that are further from the hot water heater.

No Hot Water

If you discover that you have no hot water, check the ignition system, temperature setting and water supply valve before calling for service. Refer to the manufacturer’s literature for specific locations of these items and for other troubleshooting information.

Contact a glass company for re-glazing any windows that break.

Cleaning

Clean surfaces with warm, clean water. Do not use powdered cleaner. After each cleaning, apply a silicone lubricant to track locations to insure smooth operation. Clean glass as needed with vinegar and water, a commercial glass cleaner, or the product recommended by the window manufacturer.

Condensation

Condensation on interior surfaces of the window and frame is the result of high humidity within the home and low outside temperatures. Your family’s lifestyle controls the humidity level within your home. If your home includes a humidifier, closely observe the manufacturer’s directions before its use. Contact your window supplier if there is condensation between panes. 

Locks

Acquaint yourself with the operation of window and patio door hardware for maximum security.

Door Tracks

Keep patio door tracks clean for smooth operation and to prevent damage to the doorframe. Use silicone lubricants for smooth operation.

Sticking Windows

If sticking occurs or excessive pressure is required to open or close a window, apply silicone lubricant to the track locations as needed.  

Weep Holes

In heavy rain, or high humidity within the home, water may collect in the bottom channel of window frames. Weep holes provide access for water to escape to the outside. Keep the bottom window channels and weep holes free of dirt and debris for proper operation. Make sure to never paint or caulk the weep holes shut.

Depending on temperature and humidity, expansion and contraction in wood trim is normal. Millwork is more vulnerable to shrinkage during the heating season and cooling season when air conditioners are used. Proper humidity levels must be maintained. Maintaining a moderate and stable temperature also minimizes the effects of shrinkage.

The relative humidity in your home should remain between 30-60 %