Homeowner Services

Air Conditioning

Have your forced air-system checked by a certified contractor every year before the heating season.
Replace the furnace filter every month during the year to provide clean air, improve airflow, and reduce electricity costs.
Keep your unit free of debris and do not store cleaners or other toxic materials near heating vents or furnaces.
Properly set the thermostat and keep the temperature constant to reduce utility cost. When the system is on keep all windows and doors closed.

Alarm system

Make sure your system is properly set and perform a regular monthly check to insure secure work.

Appliances

Make sure to fill out and send all warranty cards.
Before using the appliances read the manuals and instructions and keep them available for references.
If any problems arise, please call the manufacturer directly and be prepared to provide them with the model and serial number of the appliance and the closing date.
Warranties are normally given for one year.
Keep the appliances clean to ensure smooth performance and safety.
If you smell a gas leak, turn off the main valve, open the windows and call the Gas Company.

Bricks

Bricks do not require regular maintenance. However after several years tuck pointing is recommended, this is a term referred to repairing the mortar between the bricks. Please be careful not to fill out the small holes in the mortar along the lower row of bricks even if weep ropes are not present, because they allow the accumulated moisture behind the bricks to escape.
You may also notice a white chalky substance that builds on the bricks. This is called efflorescence which is a natural occurrence and can be removed with products available at hardware stores.

Cabinets

Keep the cabinets clean by using cleaning detergents appropriate for the finish.
Lubricate and adjust the hinges and the hardware.
Avoid exposing them to steam and wipe off any water. Use soft materials to prevent scratches or damage.

Carpet

Place mats before doors to prevent dirt from getting in the carpet.
Vacuum the carpet twice a week to remove the grounded debris.
If a spot occurs use an appropriate carpet detergent and follow the directions for the product.
Have your carpet professionally cleaned at least once a year.
Avoid allowing direct sunlight on your carpet as this may cause fading.

Caulking

In time and due to weather conditions and temperature variance in the home, the caulk will sometimes shrink, dry or peel. Check the caulk annually and re-caulk where needed, especially if there are cracks in the connections between the shower walls and the tub or toilet. Also check the areas in the kitchen and seal if necessary. Be sure to use the appropriate caulk.

Chimney Caps

It is not uncommon to have rain drops inside the chimney flue under rainy and windy conditions.

Concrete

Because of fraction moves and differences in temperature during the year, the concrete foundation very often cracks. It is important to fill these cracks to prevent further expansion, which may cause serious problems. To prevent the concrete from cracking try to keep the water draining away from the house. When clean, try to sweep instead and hose down.
Make sure heavy vehicles that can cause damage to the foundation are not allowed on the property.
During winter season try to remove any ice or snow as quickly as possible as it may damage the concrete slabs.
Any chemical substances including but not limited to salt, de-icing agents, fertilizers, pet urine, etc may destroy the concrete surface.

Condensation

Reduce indoor humidity and condensation with regular ventilation of the rooms.
Try to keep the bathrooms dry to prevent moisture. One way to do this is to open the window slightly while bathing or simply dry the condensation with a towel. Turning on the bathroom fan will also help to keep the bathroom free of condensation.

Countertops

Granite or marble counter tops must be resealed after a certain period of time as recommended by the manufacturer.
Wipe up any spills immediately and do not place hot pans or other utensils directly on the countertops.
Marble surfaces can be easily stained by certain foods and drinks like fruits, coffee, and wine. If stain occurs, clean immediately with hot water and mild soap. If this does not help, most stains or scratches that occur can be removed by a stone care specialist.
Different surfaces have different maintenance and cleaning requirements. It is recommended to check maintenance information directly with the manufacturer.

Cracks

Cracks are a normal occurrence in new construction homes due to natural shrinkage, settlement, and dryness of the building materials. These cracks are not part of the Builder’s Warranty and it is recommended to wait several months before scheduling a repair.

Dehumidification

This is the part of your Air Conditioning system that filters the condensed water out of the house.
Check and maintain the whole system regularly to make sure it is working properly.

Doors and Windows

Due to the temperature changes, moisture level, or extreme weather conditions, the doors and windows may experience some changes such as shrinkage and warpage.
Interior doors are influenced by the use of air furnaces, showers, and dishwashers, which will cause them to change or loosen. Regularly check the hinges and tighten them if they are loose.
Refinish the exterior wood doors at least once a year and treat them with wood preservers every 4 months to protect the wood and prevent cracking and drying.
Patio Doors should be caulked regularly to avoid moisture penetration and leaks of water.

Drains

Regularly check that outside drains are not clogged by flushing them with a garden hose.
You may experience a bad smell in the Laundry room caused by the drying off and evaporation of water from the floor drain. It is recommended that you pour soapy water down the drain and repeat the procedure every time you sense a bad odor.

Drywall

Due to the drying out process, drywall will sometimes develop settlement cracks or nail pops, which are a normal occurrence and are not part of the Builders Warranty. These can be easily corrected by the homeowner with spackling paste.

Electrical

Test your GFCI every two months.
Do not overload a circuit by plugging in too many electrical systems in one outlet.
Always follow the manufacturer’s directions for voltage use on light fixtures. Not using the correct wattage bulbs could burn out the light fixture.
If you wish to make any changes to the original wiring, add or remove items, please contact the electrician who wired your home, as additional work performed by other electrician will terminate the one year warranty with your builder. If you can not find him, please call our main office.

Garage door

Depending on the type of garage door, always check with the manufacturer about required maintenance for the exterior and interior surface and mechanisms.

Gutters

Gutters are used to prevent the collection of water on the foundation. There are drains and downspouts used to carry the water away from the house for this purpose. Make sure the downspouts are clean of leaves, debris, and anything that could block the water flow.

Fireplace

Before the winter season check the flue for soot build up.
When not using the fireplace, keep the damper closed as the inside heat can escape from the chimney.
Do not burn any trash or easily flammable materials, as this it may result in unwanted cracks.
When using a fireplace for the first time, make sure to open the windows so that any smoke that may occur will escape from the room. Always make sure the damper is open you use the fireplace. If a problem occurs, check the chimney for possible clogging from dirt or bird nests.

Hardwood floors

Use mats before all exterior doors to prevent dirt and sand getting on the floor.
Also place rugs in areas that experience high traffic or spills. Immediately wipe any spills with a dry cloth.
Vacuum every day or when needed.
Put proper floor protectors on the legs of furniture to protect the floor from scratching, and do not drag your furniture.
Avoid direct ultraviolet light by installing drapes or other window coverings.
When cleaning your hardwood floors, use proper cleaners recommended by the manufacturer that will not damage the finish or wood itself. Do not clean the floors with water. Prevent any water from getting on the hardwood floors and wipe immediately if water or any other liquids are found on the floors.
Take extra care of hardwood floor applications in bathroom settings.
By maintaining a proper moisture level in your home, you can slow the shrinkage effects that all wood goes through.
With changes in humidity levels and weather conditions, floor squeaks may occur and then disappear. This is a normal occurrence and it is not considered to be a defect.

Heating

Open and close vents accordingly to maintain and balance heat/cold throughout the house. During the summer season, keep bottom return vents closed and top return vents open. During winter, keep the bottom return vents open and the top return vents closed. The supply vents should be open at all time.

Humidifier

Keep the humidifier settings in accordance with the outside temperature. Too high or too low settings may cause excessive moisture, condensation, or rapid drying of the building.

Interior Walls

Drywall is the most widely used type of walls. Drywalls usually experiences two types of damage – hairline cracks and shrinkage nail pops, caused by temperature differences; and gouges, caused by human mistakes. Maintaining your walls requires filling the cracks with caulk. You can also use caulk to fill nail holes.
Annually repainting the walls will make the room look shiny and give it a clean, fresh look.
If your paint is latex you can wipe off the dirty spots with a wet cloth.

Interior trim and moulding

There are different types of trim and moulding. This type of hardware is exposed to rapid change, due to weather conditions. Periodically checking the trim and moulding is required to determine if it is loose, has moved, or is damaged.
To avoid damage, wipe off the condensation from the windows with dry cloth. One way to fix the problem is to apply silicone to the cracks that occur.

Landscaping

Your main concern while landscaping should be protecting the foundation. Do not plant large plants within 6ft of the foundation.
Always make sure that downspouts and other drainage components are away from the house, properly cleaned, and free of leaves and debris.
Do not place sprinklers within 1ft of your home. Clean the sprinkler head if clogged and make sure to water your garden at least twice a week.
Maintain a well-designed landscape that will prevent erosion.

Limestone

Do not use any de-icing agents or other chemical substances on exterior limestone as it may destroy the limestone surface.
Limestone surfaces can be protected with water repellant products.

Locks

To ensure proper operation, exterior locks require oiling once a month.

Painting

Exterior and interior paint will fade and deteriorate over time. Painted surfaces need to be touched up and re-painted as necessary to maintain color and consistency.
Exterior paint surfaces should not be sprayed directly with a hose or lawn sprinkler.
Interior painted surfaces should not be scrubbed for cleaning.

Plumbing

Annually drain the water tank and refill again with clean water. Before starting to do so, turn off the appropriate electric power box and turn on again when finished.
Keep the setting on your water heater on 120 degrees.
Use the garbage disposal with cold water only and let it run for one minute after using the disposal.
During the winter, remove all hoses with outside connection to prevent freezing and clogging of the pipes.
Make sure all water spigots and the irrigation system are drained down before the winter season. Failure to do so will cause the pipes to burst.
Have your sump pumps checked by a licensed plumber once a year.
If you determine any leaks shut off the main valve and call for a professional.
To extend the life of plumbing fixtures like sinks, faucets, toilets and tubs, perform daily cleaning with proper detergents and materials. Try not to scratch and damage the surface of the fixtures.
Exterior gas pipes for barbecue grills might need a pressure regulator. Always consult with a product manufacturer or a specialist before installation.

Roof

Like everything else in your home, cleaning the roof is an important part of its maintenance. Keep the roof free of debris and leaves that will cause the roof to retain water. Clear all vents, chimneys, and rain gutters.
Buildup of snow, ice, or water can cause mold, rot, and fungus growth.
Regularly check for leaks around vents, skylights, valleys or chimneys and caulk if necessary.
Replace any missing or damaged shingles/tile.
Inspect your roof for damage after severe weather conditions. Do not walk or stand on the roof.
Avoid installation of any satellite dishes or other equipment on the roof as this requires drilling into the roof and may cause leaks over time.
Chimneys and chimney flues need to be cleaned once a year by a professional.

Sewer, Drain and Septic

Do not put grease, hair, garbage or any other materials into the sewer system. This may cause drains to slow or clog and back up the waste into your home. Possible use of drain strainer covers for tub drains can prevent hair and other materials from getting into the drains.
If you don’t use some of the toilet fixtures, regularly turn the water to keep the water barrier in tact.

Smoke Detectors

You should have smoke detectors in each level of your house and near sleeping areas.
There are two types of smoke alarms: battery and electricity operated (more dependable).
The AC power alarms also have batteries, which continue to operate if the electricity goes off.
Test the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, to insure that they are still working, by pressing the test button. If the alarms are working properly, they will make a sound when the button is pressed. If not, the battery is dead and needs to be replaced.
Replace smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms at least once every 10 years.

Thermostat

Set the thermostat on the desired temperature. Frequently changing the setting will lead to low efficiency and higher cost of energy. Changing the temperature frequently and dramatically will use more energy.
In a new construction homes, it is recommended to keep the temperature lower than usual in the winter. It is recommended to set the thermostat at no greater than 68 degrees to allow the house to dry slowly. High temperature will cause rapid drying of the building materials and shrinkage, which will result in cracks.
Make sure your humidistat is set to the correct setting. Most houses should register 35% to 50% humidity depending on the temperature.

Tile

Clean tile regularly by dry mopping first to remove any dirt, dust, and grit. Then, depending on the type of tile surface, i.e. marble, granite, ceramic tile, etc., either wet mop with water or a cleaner recommended by the manufacturer.
When cleaning tile, never use an abrasive cleaner and try to keep the surface as dry as possible to prevent mildew buildup.
Tile needs to be resealed periodically by a professional. The frequency of resealing will depend on the frequency of use, manufacturer’s recommendations, type of tile and type of sealer used.
Tile may experience small cracks that can be filled with readily available products found in hardware stores.

Warranties

Review all warranties and manuals provided and fill out all warranty cards.

Water Heater

Keep the setting on your water heater on 120 degrees or as recommended by your Village or City Hall.
Drain the water heater annually or as recommended by the manufacturer to remove sediment.