Congratulations on your decision to purchase a new home.

Transcription

1 Homeowner Manual

2 Congratulations on your decision to purchase a new home. The Homeowner Manual has been designed to assist you during the warranty period of your home and includes some helpful tips on key maintenance items. In addition, this manual provides a description of our limited warranty program. Please take time to review this material thoroughly. Page 1

3 Table of Contents Page 2

4 Caring for Your Home Cosmetic surface damage can occur during the move-in process or through daily activities. During your homeowner orientation, we confrmed that all surfaces were in good and acceptable condition. Any details that needed attention were listed on your request for repair forms. After we correct any items noted during the buyer walk-thru a.k.a orientation, repair of cosmetic surface damage is your responsibility. Our limited warranty excludes cosmetic damage to items such as: Sinks, tubs, and plumbing fixtures Countertops and cabinet doors Light fixtures, mirrors, and glass Windows and screens Tile, carpet, and wood flooring Doors, trim, and hardware Paint and drywall Finish on appliances Screen enclosures Finish on pavers and pool Periodic maintenance is necessary because of normal wear and tear, the inherent characteristics of the materials used in your home, and normal service required by the mechanical systems. Natural fuctuations in temperature and humidity also afect your home, resulting in maintenance items. Many times a minor adjustment or repair done immediately saves a more serious, timeconsuming, and sometimes costly repair later. Note also that neglect of routine maintenance can void applicable limited warranty coverage on all or part of your home. Please take time to read the literature provided by the manufacturers of consumer products and other items in your home. Please refer to the manufacturer s recommendations. Activate manufacturer s warranties by completing and mailing any registration cards included with their materials. Page 3

5 Limited Warranty Guidelines While we strive to build a defect-free home, we are realistic to know that we may make mistakes orthat something in the home may not perform as intended. When either occurs, we will make necessary corrections so the item meets our warranty guidelines. In addition to the information contained in the LimitedWarranty itself, this manual includes details about material and workmanship standards, which may differ depending on the residence you purchase. If you request warranty service on a maintenance item, we will explain to you the steps you should take to care for the item. Providing normal maintenance for your home is your responsibility. When warranty work is needed in your home, we ask that you remove vulnerable items or items that might make performing the repair difficult. Page 4

6 Reporting Warranty Items Service Processing Procedures You can help us to serve you better by providing complete information, including: Name, address, and phone numbers where you can be reached during business hours. A complete description of the problem, for example, Guest bedroom door does not lock properly, rather than door problem. When we receive a warranty service request or a call, we may contact you for an inspection appointment. If the item is home maintenance, we will review the maintenance steps with you and offer whatever informational assistance we can. Prima does not provide routine home maintenance. Buyer walk-thru, a.k.a Buyer orientation If present, buyer(s) will initially meet with our Service Representative at the time of Final buyer walk-thru (which in this manual we refer to as the buyer orientation) and go over the buyer repair request items in order make sure items of concern have been addressed or repaired. Service Reporting Procedures Before close of escrow, homeowner will be provided with Service Representative's contact information. Page 5

7 Appliances Appliances are warranted through the manufacturer. 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 Appliance Warranties The manufacturers of the appliances will work directly with you if any repairs are needed for these products. Customer service phone numbers are listed in the use and care materials for each appliance. Be prepared to provide the model and serial number of the item and the closing date on your home. Appliance warranties are generally for one year; refer to the literature provided by the manufacturer for complete information. Page 6

8 Cabinets Wood cabinets will show variations of grain, color and knots. Certain shades, such as natural and whitewashes, are quite transparent and provide little or no coverage of the variations in the grain. Performance Standards Cabinet Doors or Drawers Not Operating Properly Homeowner will not suspend heavy weight to doors or drawers. Builder will ensure doors and drawers are level at the time of homeowner orientation. If needed, builder will adjust one time during the Limited Warranty. Noticeable Variations in Wood Grain and Color on Cabinets. Readily noticeable variations in wood grain and color are expected in all style selections. None Scratches and Indentations Builder confirms that all cabinets are in acceptable condition during the homeowner orientation None Page 7

9 Caulking Time and weather will shrink and dry caulking so that it no longer provides a good seal. As routine maintenance, check the caulking and make needed repairs. Performance Standards During the homeowner orientation we confirm that appropriate areas are adequately caulked. Bathroom sinks Bathroom wall tile Cabinets Countertops Plumbing fixtures Sliding glass doors Stairs Tubs and showers Windows Wood trim Caulking is a maintenance item and should be done annually. If needed, builder will touch up caulking one time during your Limited Warranty Period. Page 8

10 Concrete Flatwork (Foundation, Driveways, and Walkways) By maintaining good drainage, you protect your home s foundation and the concrete flatwork. These are not a structural (load-bearing) element of the home and are excluded from coverage by the structural warranty. Cracks A concrete slab shrinks as it cures. Some of this shrinkage shows up as cracks. Cracking of concrete flatwork also results from temperature changes that cause expansion and contraction. During the summer, moisture finds its way under the concrete along the edges or through cracks in the surface. Maintaining drainage away from all concrete slabs will minimize cracking from this cause. As cracks occur, seal them with a waterproof concrete caulk (available at hardware or home improvement stores) to prevent moisture from penetrating to the soil beneath. Performance Standards Color Concrete slabs vary in color. No correction is provided for this condition. If an area is repaired, the new concrete will not match the existing. None Cracks If concrete cracks reach 1/4" in width or vertical displacement, Builder will patch or repair them one time during the Limited Warranty Period. Subsequently, concrete slab maintenance is Homeowner s responsibility. The patch or repair will not match the existing concrete. The Homeowner will be responsible for repair of any painted or sealed surface added to the driveway. Builder will seal cracks that reach 1/4" in width or vertical displacement one time during the Limited Warranty Period. Prima is not responsible for color variation. Page 9

11 Countertops During your homeowner orientation we confirm that all countertops are in acceptable condition. Repair of surface damage that occurs during or after closing is Homeowner s maintenance responsibility. Granite Granite is a natural product and will include variations. The beauty of natural stone is unique with each stone. Please be aware that natural stone will vary in color, shading and veining. Each piece will be different. Veins and fissures are random and are a natural characteristic of the stone, and are not considered a defect. If spills occur, wipe immediately to decrease chances of permanent staining. Sealing annually would be at the Homeowner s expense after closing. Marble - Including Cultured and Manufactured Cultured marble is a man-made product. Each pouring will produce color variations. Shading and vein patterns can range from heavy to fine. Lighting may also cause some difference in appearance. Cultured marble installed in your home will NOT be an exact match to the cultured marble in the models or in the Design Studio samples. Builder will install granite, marble, including cultured and manufactured, to the above performance standards. Chips or Gouges in Granite, Solid Surface and Marble, Including Cultured and Manufactured, Countertops. Rough Edges or Uneven Edges. Have a qualified contractor seal granite once a year to avoid staining, fungus accumulation, and bacteria formation. Builder will repair only if noted on the buyer request for repair list. Page 10

12 Doors and Locks The doors installed in your home are made of various materials such as wood, fiberglass and metal. These materials have natural characteristics that may cause warpage and shrinkage. Exterior Finish To ensure longer life for your exterior wood doors, plan to refinish them at least once a year. Stained exterior doors with clear finishes tend to weather faster than painted doors. Reseal stained exterior doors whenever the finish begins cracking or crazing. 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 plate accordingly. Hinges You can remedy a squeaky door hinge by removing the hinge pin and applying a silicone lubricant to it. Avoid using oil. 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. Locks Lubricate door locks with graphite or other waterproof lubricant. Avoid oil. 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 the Homeowner s maintenance responsibility. Performance Standards During the orientation we confirm that all doors/weather stripping are in acceptable condition and correctly adjusted. Adjustments Due to normal settling of the home, doors may require adjustment for proper fit. Homeowner to adjust doors as needed. Builder will make such adjustments once during the Limited Warranty Period. Page 11

13 Drywall Slight cracking, nail pops, or seams may become visible in walls and ceilings. These are caused by the shrinkage of the wood and normal deflection of trusses to which the drywall is attached. Repairs With the exception of the one-time settlement repairs by the Builder, care of drywall is your maintenance responsibility. Repair hairline cracks with a coat of paint. You can repair slightly larger cracks with spackle or caulk. To correct a nail pop, reset the nail with a hammer and punch. Performance Standards One time during the materials and workmanship warranty, Builder will repair drywall shrinkage cracks and nail pops and touch up the repaired area using the same paint color that was on the surface when the home was delivered. Touch-ups will be visible. Lighting Conditions Builder does not repair drywall flaws that are only visible under particular lighting conditions. None Cracks in Interior Wall and Ceiling Surfaces Hairline cracks may occur in interior wall and ceiling surfaces. Builder will repair cracks exceeding 1/4" in width as required, one time only, during the Limited Warranty Period. Builder is not responsible for color variation or differences in finished texture. The appearance of the repaired area will vary from the surrounding area. Slight Blemishes Such as nail pops, blisters in tape, seam lines and cracks, may occur due to the natural settling of the house. Page 12

14 Flooring (Carpet, Wood, and Tile) Carpet Performance Standards Builder is responsible to address staining and fading noted during the Homeowner Orientation. This will be resolved by cleaning, patching, or replacement, at Builder's discretion. Builder is not responsible for dye lot variations if replacements are made. Seams Carpet usually comes in 12-foot widths, making seams necessary in most rooms. Visible seams are common. 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. Usually with time, use, and vacuuming the seams become less visible. Wood Floors Wood flooring is a natural product and since no two trees are alike, there may be some variation of grain pattern and the stain will shade and highlight according to the grain pattern. Slight scratching may occur during use, from sand particles, people and pet traffic; this is normal and adds to the beauty and patina of wood flooring. Time and light may cause slight color change. Cleaning Sweep on a daily basis or as needed. Never wet mop a wood floor. Excessive water causes wood to expand and can possibly damage the floor. When polyurethane finishes become soiled, damp-mop with a mixture of one-cup vinegar to one gallon of warm water. When damp mopping, remove all excess water from the mop. Floors Squeak or Sub-floor Seems Loose Floors squeaks or loose sub-flooring are common in construction. None Builder will not be responsible for color variation of wood flooring or for problems caused by Homeowner s neglect or abuse. Page 13

15 Tile and Grout Cleaning Tile is one of the easiest floor coverings to maintain. Simply vacuum when needed. Occasionally, a wet mopping with warm water may be appropriate. The tile installed on walls or countertops in your home may be washed with any nonabrasive soap, detergent, or tile cleaner. Abrasive cleaners will dull the finish. Sealing Grout Sealing grout is the Homeowner s decision and responsibility. Once grout has been sealed, the Limited Warranty coverage on the grout is voided. Grout Expect slight separations to occur in the grout between tiles. This grout is for decorative purposes only; it does not hold the tile in place. The Homeowner will be responsible for the basic maintenance of grout. Cracks appearing in grouting of tiles at joints or junctions with other materials are commonly due to shrinkage. Builder will repair grouting, if necessary, one time during the Limited Warranty Period. The new grout will not match. Cracked, Badly Chipped, or Loose Tiles Cracks appearing in grouting of tiles at joints with other materials are commonly due to normal shrinkage. Hollow tiles occasionally occur and are not covered under warranty. Builder will replace or fill cracked tiles resulting from normal settlement during the Limited Warranty Period. Builder is not responsible for color variations or discontinued tile or grout. Page 14

16 Gutters and Downspouts Check gutters periodically and remove leaves or other debris. Keep downspout extensions in the down position to channel roof runoff away from the foundation area of the home. Standard, factory baked colors are used and any touch ups or repairs will be visible to the gutters match as close as possible the color of the factory baked on color. Extensions or Splashbacks Extensions should discharge the water away from the foundation. Performance Standards Gutters over three feet long are installed with a slight slope so that roof water will flow to the downspouts. Leaks Gutters should not leak at seams. If a joint between sections of gutter drips, caulk the inside joint using a commercial gutter caulking compound available at hardware stores. Builder will correct leaks that occur during the Limited Warranty Period. Overflow Gutters may overflow during periods of excessively heavy rain. This is expected. None Page 15

17 Mechanicals Air Conditioning and Heating Remember to change or clean the filter monthly. A clogged filter can slow air flow and cause cold spots in the home. Although it takes less than one minute to change the filter, this is one of the most frequently overlooked details of normal air conditioning care. A permanent, washable, removable filter should be cleaned monthly. The home s air conditioning is a closed system, which means that the interior air is continually recycled and cooled until the desired air temperature is reached. Warm outside air disrupts the system and makes cooling impossible. Therefore, all windows should be kept closed. For best results, close the drapes on these windows. Time is very important in the proper function of an air conditioning system. Unlike a light bulb, which reacts instantly when you turn on a switch, the air conditioning unit only begins a process when the thermostat is set. Maintenance Standards The thermostat inside the home controls this heating or cooling activity. Refer to the manufacturer s literature and follow all instructions for efficient operation and maintenance of your system. Clean or replace filters once a month. Provide professional service for the system at least once every two years. Condensation Lines Condensation lines will clog eventually under normal use. Maintenance is required. Flush and clean condensation line once a year or more often as needed. Filter The AC filter should be changed or cleaned every month. Change or clean filter every 30 days. Page 16

18 Mildew and Mold What Homeowners Should Know About Mildew and Mold Mildew and mold are a type of fungus. Residential home construction is not, and cannot be, designed to exclude mold spores. If the growing conditions are right, mold can grow in the home. In order to grow, mold requires a food source. This might be supplied by items found in the home, such as fabric, carpet or even wallpaper, or by building materials, such as drywall, wood and insulation. Also, mold growth requires a temperate climate and moisture. By minimizing moisture, a homeowner can reduce or eliminate growth. Moisture in the home can have many causes. Spills, leaks, overflows, condensation, and high humidity are common sources of home moisture. Good housekeeping and home maintenance practices are essential in the effort to prevent or eliminate mold growth. The Homeowner can take positive steps to reduce or eliminate the occurrence of mildew and mold growth in the home, and thereby minimize any possible adverse effects that may be caused. These steps include the following: Control the humidity in your home. Your home will have spikes in humidity, for example, when doors are opened, showers are taken, and meals are cooking. In such situations, ventilate kitchens and bathrooms by opening windows (during appropriate weather conditions), using exhaust fans, or by running the air conditioning to remove excess moisture in the air, and to facilitate evaporation of water from wet surfaces. Inspect for leaks on a regular basis. Look for discoloration or wet spots. Repair any leaks promptly. Inspect condensation pans (refrigerators and air conditioners) for mold growth. Take notice of musty odors and any visible signs of mold..should mold develop, thoroughly clean the affected area with a mild solution of bleach. First, test to see if the affected material or surface is color safe. Should the mold growth be severe, call on the services of a qualified professional cleaner. This mold information statement was prepared for educational and informational use only and does not constitute a representation or warranty of any kind by Prima. Mold and mildew control is the Homeowner s responsibility. The Homeowner is responsible for cleaning and maintaining surfaces in order to minimize the presence of mildew and fungus. Remember to regularly check your sprinkler heads to ensure water is not hitting the home. Builder is not responsible for mildew or fungus unless resulting from a construction defect. Page 17

19 Millwork 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 shrinkage can result in separation at joints of trim pieces. Homeowners can correct this with caulking and touch-up painting. Performance Standards During the Homeowner Orientation, Builder will confirm that wood trim is in acceptable condition. Minor imperfections in wood materials will be visible and will require no action. Builder will correct readily noticeable construction damage such as chips and gouges listed during the Homeowner Orientation. Exterior Finish Siding Has Open Joints Between Pieces of Trim Joints between exterior trim elements, including siding and masonry, will not result in open joints in excess of 1/4". The Homeowner will maintain the exterior finish by periodic caulking and painting. Builder will caulk and apply touch-up paint to cracks in exterior trim components that exceed 1/4". Builder provides this repair one time during the Limited Warranty Period and suggest owners wait until they approach the end of the Limited Warranty Period. Paint or stain touch-up will not match. Raised Grain Because of the effects of weather on natural wood, you should expect raised grain to develop. This is normal and not a defect in the wood or paint. Warranty coverage excludes this condition. Builder will repair defective joints as defined. Caulking is acceptable. There will be color variation. Page 18

20 Paint and Stain Flat paints show washing marks more easily than gloss paints. Often, Homeowners prefer the results obtained by touching up rather than washing. Colors Selection sheets are the Homeowner s record of the paint and stain color names, numbers, and brands in the home. Exterior Regular attention will preserve the beauty and value of the home. Check the painted and stained surfaces of the home s exterior annually. Plan on refinishing the exterior surface of the home approximately every two to three years or as often as the paint manufacturer suggests for the area and climate. Climatic conditions control the chemical structure of the paint used on the exterior. Over time, this finish will fade and dull. Avoid having sprinklers spray water on the exterior walls of the home. This will cause blistering, peeling, splintering, and other damage to the home. Touch-Up When doing paint touch-ups, use a small brush, 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 first by cleaning with a mild soap and water mixture or a reliable cleaning product. Builder provides samples of each paint used on the inside of the home. Store these with the lids tightly in place and in a location where they are not subjected to extreme temperatures. Wall Cracks Builder suggests waiting until after the first heating season to repair drywall cracks or other separations due to shrinkage. See also Drywall. Exterior Paint or Stain Peels, Deteriorates or Fades Fading is normal and the degree is dependent on climatic conditions. The Homeowner will maintain the exterior surfaces per manufacturer s specifications. Page 19

21 Roof The shingles or roof tiles on the home s roof do not require any treatment or sealer. Clean Gutters Maintain the gutters and downspouts so that they are free of debris and able to quickly drain precipitation from the roof. Do Not Walk on the Roof Weight and movement can loosen or break the roofing material. Performance Standards Broken Roof Tile Cracked tiles that are reported during the Homeowner Orientation will be replaced Inclement Weather Storm damage is excluded from warranty coverage. Wind driven rain is considered storm damage. Notify Homeowner s insurance company if storm damage is discovered. Notify Homeowner s insurance company if storm damage is discovered. Roof or Flashing Leaks Roofs or flashing will not leak under normally anticipated conditions, except where cause is determined to result from Homeowner action or negligence. The Homeowner will maintain the roof and periodically remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris from the roof surface, valley, gutters and down spouts. Builder will repair any verified roof or flashing leaks not caused by Homeowner action or negligence while under the specified warranty period located in your contract. Leaks Due to Rain Driven into the Attic Through Louvers or Vents Attic vents/louvers must be provided for proper ventilation of the attic space of the structure. If rain is driven in through louvers or vents, contact your insurance company to file a claim. Builder has no responsibility for intrusion of water through louvers or vents. Page 20

22 Windows, Screens, and Doors Contact a glass company for re-glazing of any windows that break. Interior Condensation Condensation on interior surfaces of the window and frame is the result of high humidity within the home and low outside temperatures. The homeowner is responsible for maintaining interior temperature, humidity and air circulation to avoid condensation. Weather stripping can compress over time and with use. It is the Homeowner s responsibility to replace weather stripping and seals. Sticking Windows If sticking occurs or excessive pressure is required to open or close a window, apply a silicone lubricant. This is available at hardware or home improvement stores. Avoid petroleum-based products. Weep Holes In heavy rains, water may collect in the bottom channel of window frames. Weep holes may be provided, depending on the style of window, 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. Scratches Builder does not replace or buff windows that have scratches visible only under certain lighting conditions or if mentioned after the Homeowner Orientation. Builder will adjust improperly fitted doors and windows during the applicable Limited Warranty Period. Page 21