Your homeowner orientation is an introduction to your new home and its many features—a meeting that goes beyond the traditional walk-through to include a detailed demonstration of your home and review of important maintenance information.
Scheduling
As your home nears completion your Southern Homes sales agent will contact you to schedule the homeowner orientation meeting. Appointments are available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. At the designated time, you will meet your sales agent and builder at your home. Please plan for the meeting to last from 1 to 2 hours.
Orientation Forms
The forms we use at the orientation are at the side bar of this web page for you to review and print. In addition, the suggestions that follow will help you derive the greatest benefit from your orientation.
Preparation
It is important to arrange your schedule so you can use the full amount of time allotted. If you have questions about home maintenance or the 2-10 warranty coverage, make note of them to bring up at the orientation. If you have not already done so, please read Caring for Your Home, Section 8 of this manual, before the orientation.
Past experience has shown that the orientation is most beneficial when buyers are able to focus all their attention on their new home and the information we present. Although we appreciate that friends and relatives are eager to see your new home, it would be best if they visit at another time. Similarly, we suggest that, if possible, children and pets not accompany you at this time. If a real estate agent has helped you with your purchase, he or she is not required to attend.
Acceptance
In addition to introducing you to your new home, the orientation is also an opportunity for you and Southern Homes to confirm that the home meets the quality standards shown in our model homes. During this time we will note any detail that needs attention and respond to it immediately. You will be notified if a delay occurs due to back-ordered materials.
Please note that after your home is completed, Southern Homes will not accept responsibility for cosmetic damage that occurs during or after your move-in.
At your homeowner orientation, you will receive:
Southern Homes recognizes that timing is vitally important in planning your move and locking in your interest rate. We can specify an exact delivery date when construction reaches a point at which weather and other factors are unlikely to affect completion of your home. Until then, many factors can influence the schedule including weather, shortages in materials and labor and delays in the lending process.
Date of Closing
Your Sales Representative will contact you within the first week of the month your home will be completed to schedule your orientation and closing date.
The closing (Act of Sale) takes place within five (5) business days of your orientation. Your Sales Representative will contact you to coordinate a date and time within this time period for your closing to be scheduled.
Location of Closing
The closing on your new home will take place at the title company selected at the time of contract signing.
Closing Documents
At closing, the documents necessary to convey your new home to you and to close the loan from the mortgage company will be executed and delivered. In addition to these standard items, the lender, the title company, and Southern Homes, L.L.C. may require other documents to be signed. The principal documents typically include the following:
Closing Expenses
Certain customary items in connection with the property will be prorated to the date of closing such as prepaid expenses, property taxes, or reserves required by your lender and homeowners association dues, if applicable. Prorations of general real estate property taxes and assessments will be based on the current year's taxes and assessments or, if they are unavailable, on the taxes and assessments for the prior year.
"The Final Number"
The exact amount of money you will need to bring to the closing will be provided by the title company once they receive the loan package from your lender. This normally occurs within 24 hours of the closing. Although a reasonably close estimate may be determined before the date of closing, the proration of several items included is affected by the closing date and cannot be calculated until that date is known.
Preparation
Plan to bring cash or certified funds to the closing table. In your planning, be sure to allow time to arrange for and obtain these certified funds. In addition, please keep the following items in mind:
| Springhill Neighborhood | |||
| Electricity | Washington St. Tammany Electric Cooperative | ||
| (985) 643-6612 | |||
| Gas | ATMOS Energy | ||
| 1-800-547-4321 | |||
| Water | Louisiana Water Service | ||
| 1-800-682-8471 | |||
| Popps Ferry Landing Neighborhood | |||
| Electricity | Coast Electric | ||
| (228) 832-1761 | |||
| Gas | Reliant Energy - Entex | ||
| (228) 896-7500 | |||
| Water | ECO Resources | ||
| (228) 435-6236 or | |||
| (228) 435-6240 | |||
| Tallow Creek Neighborhood | |||
| Electricity | CLECO | ||
| (800) 622-6537 | |||
| Gas | ATMOS Energy | ||
| 1-800-547-4321 | |||
| Water | Southeast Louisiana Water & Sewer | ||
| (985) 626-8426 | |||
| All Neighborhoods | |||
| Telephone | Bell South | ||
| 1-557-6500 (Louisiana) | |||
| 1-800-832-0679 (Mississippi) | |||
Southern Homes has constructed your home with quality materials and the labor of experienced craftsmen. Before using any material, it must meet our specifications for quality and durability. All work is done under our supervision to attain the best possible results for your investment.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
A home, like an automobile, requires care and attention from day one. General homeowner maintenance is essential to providing a quality home for a lifetime. Many times a minor adjustment or repair done immediately saves a more serious, time-consuming, and sometimes costly repair later. Lack of routine maintenance can also void applicable warranty coverage on all or part of your home. The attention provided by each homeowner contributes significantly to the overall desirability of the community.
We recognize that it is impossible to anticipate and describe every attention needed for good home care, but we have covered many important details in this section. Each topic includes suggestions for use and maintenance followed by Southern Homes' warranty guidelines. This manual may discuss some components that are not present in your home.
We make every effort to keep our information current and accurate. However, if any detail in our discussion conflicts with the manufacturer's recommendations, you should follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Activate specific manufacturer's warranties by completing and mailing any registration cards included with their materials. In some cases, manufacturer's warranties may extend beyond the first year and it is in your best interest to be apprised of such coverage.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
We are realistic enough to know that we may make mistakes or that something in the home may not perform as intended. When either occurs, we will make necessary corrections. In support of this commitment, Southern Homes provides you with a limited warranty. In addition to the information contained in the warranty, this manual includes details about one-year material and workmanship standards. The purpose is to let you know what our quality standard is for the typical concerns that can come up in a new home. The manual describes our standards for each item and what we will do to remedy items that do not meet our standards.
Our criteria for qualifying warranty repairs are based on typical industry practices in our region and meet or exceed those practices for the components of your home. However, we reserve the right to exceed these guidelines if common sense or individual circumstances dictate, without being obligated to exceed all guidelines to a similar degree or for all homeowners.
Reporting Procedures
While all requests for Warranty Service must be in writing, they can be submitted several different ways:
You can help us to serve you better by providing complete information, including:
Emergency Service
As defined by the warranty, "emergency" includes situations such as:
If an emergency arises at any time during business hours, please call our office at:
Louisiana Residences (985) 646-6874 Mississippi Residences (228) 822-3096 Toll Free (888) 660-0123
If an emergency arises after business hours, please call the numbers listed below:
Air Conditioning and Heating LA Residences (504) 454-0060 Mississippi Residences (228) 863-5502 Plumbing Tallow Creek Residences (985) 726-1005 Springhill Residences (225) 273-4300 Mississippi Residences Cypress Pointe (228) 424-1846 Popps Ferry (228) 861-3196 Electrical LA Residences (985) 892-3210 Mississippi Residences (228) 832-1866 G.E. Appliances LA & MS Residences 1-800-432-2737
Use the digital pager listed below for weekend emergencies only in the event there is no response from the above numbers. Please give at least four hours for a response from sub-contractors.
LA Residences (985) 646-6874 MS Residences (228) 822-3096
Service Processing Procedures
When a warranty service request is received, you will be contacted within twenty-four (24) business hours to schedule an inspection appointment. Warranty inspection appointments can be scheduled Monday through Friday, 8a.m. - 3p.m. Generally, reported items fall into one of three categories:
If an item will be repaired by Southern Homes warranty service personnel, you will be contacted with 48 hours to schedule an appointment for repairs (Monday - Friday, 8a.m. - 3p.m)
If an item will be repaired by a trade subcontractor, we will issue a work order to the subcontractor. The subcontractor will contact you directly to schedule an appointment for repairs. We will follow-up with you to make certain the situation is resolved to your satisfaction.
If the item is considered routine homeowner maintenance, we will review the maintenance steps with you and provide informational assistance.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Air conditioning can greatly enhance the comfort of your home, but if it is used improperly or inefficiently, wasted energy and frustration will result. These hints and suggestions are provided to help you maximize your air conditioning system.
Your air conditioning system is a whole?house system. The air conditioner unit is the mechanism that produces cooler air. The air conditioning system involves everything inside your home including, for example, drapes, blinds, and windows.
Your home 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, you should keep all windows closed. The heat from the sun shining through windows with open drapes is intense enough to overcome the cooling effect of the air conditioning unit. For best results, close the drapes on these windows.
Time is very important in your expectations 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 you set the thermostat.
For example, if you come home at 6 p.m. when the temperature has reached 90 degrees F and set your thermostat to 75 degrees, the air conditioning unit will begin cooling, but will take much longer to reach the desired temperature. During the whole day, the sun has been heating not only the air in the house, but the walls, the carpet, and the furniture. At 6 p.m. the air conditioning unit starts cooling the air, but the walls, carpet, and furniture release heat and nullify this cooling. By the time the air conditioning unit has cooled the walls, carpet, and furniture, you may well have lost patience.
If evening cooling is your primary goal, set the thermostat at a moderate temperature in the morning while the house is cooler, allowing the system to maintain the cooler temperature. The temperature setting may then be lowered slightly when you arrive home, with better results. Once the system is operating, setting the thermostat at 60 degrees will not cool the home any faster and can result in the unit freezing up and not performing at all. Extended use under these conditions can damage the unit.
Adjust Vents
Maximize air flow to occupied parts of your home by adjusting the vents. Likewise, when the seasons change, readjust them for comfortable heating.
Manufacturer’s Instructions
Since the air conditioning system is combined with the heating system, follow the maintenance instructions for your furnace. The manufacturer's manual specifies maintenance for the condenser. Review and follow these points carefully.
Temperature Variations
Temperatures may vary from room to room by several degrees F. This is due to such variables as floor plan, orientation of the home on the lot, type and use of window coverings, and traffic through the home.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
The air conditioning system should maintain a temperature of 78 degrees F or a differential of 15 degrees from the outside temperature, measured in the center of each room at a height of five feet above the floor. Lower temperature settings are often possible, but neither the manufacturer nor Southern Homes guarantees this.
Compressor
The air conditioning compressor must be in a level position to operate correctly. If it settles during the warranty period, Southern Homes will correct this.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
If your home selections included pre-wire for an alarm system, you will arrange for the final connection after your move-in. The alarm company will demonstrate the system and instruct you in its use. We recommend that you test the system each month.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Southern Homes will correct wiring that does not perform as intended for the alarm system.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Read and follow all manufacturer instructions for the use and maintenance of each appliance in your home and keep them available for reference.
Registration
Mail warranty registration cards directly to the manufacturer.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
We confirm that all appliance surfaces are in acceptable condition during inspection. We assign all appliance warranties to you, effective on the date of closing. The appliance manufacturers warrant their products directly to you according to the terms and conditions of these written warranties.
For warranty service on an appliance, contact the appropriate manufacturer directly at the service number provided in the appliance literature. You will need to supply the model and serial number (usually located on a small metal plate or seal attached to the appliance in an inconspicuous location), and the date of purchase (your closing date).
Closing Date ____________________
| Appliance | Manufacturer | Model # | Serial # | Service Phone # |
| Range | ||||
| Range Hood | ||||
| Cooktop | ||||
| Oven | ||||
| Microwave | ||||
| Dishwasher | ||||
| Disposal | ||||
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
The attic space is neither designed nor intended for storage. We provide access to this area for maintenance of mechanical equipment that may traverse the attic space. When you perform needed tasks in the attic, use caution and avoid stepping off wood members onto the drywall. This can result in personal injury or damage to the ceiling below. Your warranty does not cover such injury or damage.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Southern Homes and the local building department inspect the attic before your closing to confirm insulation is correct.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Your Moen faucet should provide a beautiful touch of elegance to your home for many years to come, with only a minimum amount of care.
Cleaning
In order to maintain your Moen faucet, use a soft, damp cloth to clean the faucet and use only warm water or glass cleaner to remove dry water spots. Never use cleaners that contain abrasives or harsh chemicals as this may damage the finish. Do not use alcohol or other organic solvents. Clean the aerator (small screen at the end of the spout) if water pressure seems to be getting low. A toothbrush dipped in vinegar will easily remove any dirt or trapped particles and should eliminate the problem.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
During the inspections we will confirm the fixtures are in acceptable condition. Southern Homes does not warrant against corrosion damage to the external surfaces or internal workings of plumbing fixtures.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Brick is one of the most durable and lowest maintenance finishes for a home's exterior. A record of your brick color is included in your selection sheets.
Efflorescence
The white, powdery substance that sometimes accumulates on brick surfaces is called efflorescence. This is a natural phenomenon and cannot be prevented. In some cases, you can remove it by scrubbing with a stiff brush and vinegar. Consult your home center or hardware store for commercial products to remove efflorescence.
Tuck-Pointing
After several years, face brick may require tuck?pointing (repairing the mortar between the bricks). Otherwise, no regular maintenance is required.
Weep Holes
You may notice small holes in the mortar along the lower row of bricks. These holes allow moisture that has accumulated behind the brick to escape. Do not fill these weep holes or permit landscaping materials to cover them.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
We check the brick work during inspection to confirm correct installation of designated materials.
Cracks
One time during the warranty period, we repair masonry cracks that exceed 3/16 inch.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Your selection sheets are your record of the brand, style, and color of cabinets in your home. If you selected wood or wood veneer cabinets, expect differences in grain and color between and within the cabinet components due to natural variations in wood and the way it takes stain.
Cleaning
Products such as lemon oil or polishes that include scratch cover are suggested for wood cabinet care. Follow container directions. Use such products a maximum of once every 3 to 6 months to avoid excessive build-up. Avoid paraffin-based spray waxes and washing cabinets with water, as both will damage the luster of the finish.
Hinges
If hinges catch or drawer glides become sluggish, a small amount of silicone lubricant will improve their performance.
Moisture
Damage to cabinet surfaces and warping can result from operating appliances that generate large amounts of moisture (such as a crock pot) too near the cabinet. When operating such appliances, place them in a location that is not directly under a cabinet.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
During inspections we will confirm that all cabinet parts are installed and that their surfaces are in acceptable condition.
Alignment
Doors, drawer fronts, and handles should be level and even.
Operation
Cabinets should operate properly under normal use.
Separations
We will correct gaps between cabinets and the ceiling or cabinets and the walls by caulking or other means if the gap exceeds 1/8 inch (locations behind appliances are excepted from this repair).
Warping
If doors or drawer fronts warp in excess of 1/4 inch within 24 inches, we will correct this by adjustment or replacement.
Wood Grain
Readily noticeable variations in wood grain and color are normal in all wood or wood veneer selections. Replacements are not made due to such variations.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Your selection sheets provide a record of the brand, style, and color of floor coverings in your home. Please retain this information for future reference. Refer to the various manufacturer's recommendations for additional information on the care of your floor coverings.
Cleaning
You can add years to the life of your carpet with regular care. Carpet wears out because of foot traffic and dirt particles that get trampled deep into the pile beyond the suction of the vacuum.
The dirt particles wear down the fibers like sandpaper and dull the carpet. The most important thing you can do to protect your carpet is to vacuum it frequently.
Vacuum twice each week lightly and once a week thoroughly. Heavy traffic areas may require more frequent cleaning. A light vacuuming is three passes; a thorough job may need seven passes. A vacuum cleaner with a beater-bar agitates the pile and is more effective in bringing dirt to the surface for easy removal.
Vacuuming high-traffic areas daily helps keep them clean and maintains the upright position of the nap. Wipe spills and clean stains immediately. For best results, blot or dab any spill or stain; avoid rubbing. Test stain removers on an out-of-the-way area of the carpet, such as in a closet, to check for any undesirable effects. Have your carpet professionally cleaned regularly, usually once a year.
Some problem conditions that may occur with your new carpet and our suggested remedies are presented below.
Burns
Take care of any kind of burn immediately. First snip off the darkened fibers. Then use a soapless cleaner and sponge with water. If the burn is extensive, talk with a professional about replacing the damaged area.
Crushing
Furniture and traffic may crush a carpet's pile fibers. Frequent vacuuming in high-traffic areas and glides or cups under heavy pieces of furniture can help prevent this. Rotating your furniture to change the traffic pattern in a room promotes more even wear. Some carpets resist matting and crushing because of their level of fiber, but this does not imply or guarantee that no matting or crushing will occur. Crushing is considered normal wear.
Fading
Science has yet to develop a color that will not fade with time. All carpets will slowly lose some color due to natural and artificial forces in the environment. You can delay this process by frequently removing soil with vacuuming, regularly changing air filters in heating and air conditioning systems, keeping humidity and room temperature from getting too high, and reducing sunlight exposure with window coverings.
Filtration
If interior doors are kept closed while the air conditioning is operating, air circulation from the closed room flows through the small space at the bottom of the door. This forces the air over the carpet fibers, which in turn act as a filter, catching particulate pollution. Over time, a noticeable stain develops at the threshold.
Fuzzing
In loop carpets, fibers may break. Simply clip the excess fibers. If it continues, call a professional.
Pilling
Pilling or small balls of fiber can appear on your carpet, depending on the type of carpet fiber and the type of traffic. If this occurs, clip off the pills. If they cover a large area, seek professional advice.
Rippling
With wall-to-wall carpeting, high humidity may cause rippling. If the carpet remains rippled after the humidity has left, have a professional re-stretch the carpeting using a power stretcher, not a knee-kicker.
Seams
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. Carpet styles with low, tight naps result in the most visible seams. Seams are never more visible than when the carpet is first installed. Usually with time, use, and vacuuming the seams become less visible. You can see examples of how carpet seams diminish after they have been vacuumed and have experienced traffic in the model homes.
Shading
Shading is an inherent quality of fine-cut pile carpets. Household traffic causes pile fibers to assume different angles; as a result, the carpet appears darker and lighter in these areas. A good vacuuming, which makes the pile all go in the same direction, provides a temporary remedy.
Shedding
New carpeting, especially pile, sheds bits of fiber for a period of time. Eventually these loose fibers are removed by vacuuming. Shedding usually occurs more with wool carpeting than with nylon or other synthetics.
Snags
Sharp-edged objects can grab or snag the carpet fiber. When this occurs, cut off the snag. If the snag is especially large, call a professional.
Sprouting
Occasionally you may find small tufts of fiber sprouting above carpet surface. Simply use scissors to cut off the sprout. Do not attempt to pull it, because other fibers will come out in the process.
Stains
No carpet is stain proof. Although your carpet manufacturer designates your carpet as stain- resistant, some substances may still cause permanent staining. These include hair dyes, shoe polish, paints, and India ink. Some substances destroy or change the color of carpets, including bleaches, acne medications, drain cleaners, plant food, insecticides, and food or beverages with strongly colored natural dyes as found in some brands of mustard and herbal tea.
Refer to your care and maintenance brochures for recommended cleaning procedures for your particular fiber. Pretest any spot-removal solution in an inconspicuous area before using it in a large area. Apply several drops of the solution, hold a white tissue on the area, and count to ten. Examine both tissue and carpet for dye transfer and check for carpet damage.
Static
Cooler temperatures outside often contribute to static electricity inside. To avoid the problem, look for carpets made with anti-static. You can also install a humidifier to help control static build-up.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
During inspections, we will confirm that your carpet is in acceptable condition. We will correct stains or spots noted at this time by cleaning, patching, or replacement. Southern Homes will not be responsible for dye lot variations if replacements are made.
Edges
Edges of carpet along moldings and edges of stairs should be held firmly in place. In some areas, metal or other edging material may be used where carpet meets another floor covering.
Seams
Carpet seams will be visible. Southern Homes will repair any gaps or fraying.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
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. Caulking compounds and dispenser guns are available at hardware stores. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully to be certain that you select an appropriate caulk for the intended purpose.
Colored Caulk
Colored caulking is available where larger selections are provided. As with any colored material, dye lots can vary.
Latex Caulk
Latex caulking is appropriate for an area that requires painting, such as along the stair stringer or where wood trim meets the wall.
Silicone Caulk
Caulking that contains silicone will not accept paint; it works best where water is present, for example, where tub meets tile or a sink meets a countertop.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
During inspections we confirm that appropriate areas are adequately caulked.
One-Time Repair
We will touch up caulking one time during your materials and workmanship period.
See also Countertops, Expansion and Contraction, Stairs, and Wood Trim.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Your selection sheets include the brand and color of your ceramic tile.
Cleaning
Ceramic tile is one of the easiest floor coverings to maintain. Simply vacuum when needed. Occasionally, a wet mopping with warm water may be appropriate. Avoid adding detergent to the water. If you feel a cleaning agent is required, use a mild solution of warm water and dishwasher crystals (they will not result in a heavy, difficult-to-remove lather on the grout). Rinse thoroughly.
The ceramic 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.
Grout Discoloration
Clean grout that becomes yellowed or stained with a fiber brush, cleanser, and water. Grout cleansers and whiteners are available at most hardware stores.
Sealing Grout
Sealing grout is your decision and responsibility. Once grout has been sealed, ongoing maintenance of that seal is necessary and warranty coverage on grout that has been sealed is void.
Separations
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. Cracks in the grout can be filled using premixed grout purchased from flooring or hardware stores. Follow package directions.
Tile around bathtubs or countertops may appear to be pulling up after a time. This is caused by normal shrinkage of grout or caulk and shrinkage of wood members as they dry out. If this occurs, the best remedy is to purchase tub caulk or premixed grout from a hardware store. Follow directions on the container. This maintenance is important to protect the underlying surface from water damage.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
During inspections we confirm that tile and grout areas are in acceptable condition. We will repair or replace cracked, badly chipped, or loose tiles noted at that time. Southern Homes is not responsible for variations in color or discontinued patterns. New grout may vary in color from the original.
One-Time Repair
Cracks appearing in grouting of ceramic tiles at joints or junctions with other materials are commonly due to shrinkage. Southern Homes will repair grouting, if necessary, one time during the first year. We are not responsible for color variations in grout or discontinued colored grout. Any grouting or caulking that is needed after that time is your responsibility.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
By maintaining good drainage, you protect your home's foundation and the concrete flatwork: porch, patio, driveway, garage floor, and sidewalks.
Cleaning
Avoid washing exterior concrete flatwork with cold water from an outside faucet when temperatures are high and the sun has been shining on the concrete. The abrupt change in temperature can damage the surface bond of the concrete. We recommend sweeping for keeping exterior concrete clean. If washing is necessary, do this when temperatures are moderate.
Repeated cleaning of the garage floor by hosing can increase soil movement by allowing water to penetrate any existing cracks. We recommend sweeping to clean the garage floor.
Cracks
A concrete slab 10 feet across shrinks approximately 5/8 inch 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. In winter, this moisture forms frost that can lift the concrete, increasing the cracking. 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.
Expansion Joints
We install expansion joints to help control expansion. However, as the concrete shrinks during the curing process, moisture can penetrate under the concrete and lift the expansion joint. When this occurs, fill the resulting gap with a gray silicone sealant, which you can purchase at most hardware stores.
Heavy Vehicles
Do not permit heavy vehicles such as moving vans or concrete trucks to drive on your concrete flatwork. We design and install this concrete for residential use only.
Sealer
A concrete sealer, available at paint stores, will help you keep an unpainted concrete floor clean. Do not use soap on unpainted concrete. Instead, use plain water and washing soda or, if necessary, a scouring powder.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Patios and driveways are not a structural (load-bearing) element of the home and are not covered by the structural warranty
Color
Concrete slabs vary in color. No correction is provided for this condition.
Cracks
If concrete cracks reach 3/16 inches in width or vertical displacement, Southern Homes will patch or repair them one time during the warranty year. Subsequently, concrete slab maintenance is your responsibility.
Finished Floors
Southern Homes will correct cracks, settling, or heaving that rupture finish floor materials that we installed as part of the home.
Level Floors
Concrete floors in the habitable areas of the home will be level to within 1/4 inch within any 32-inch measurement.
Separation
Southern Homes will correct separation of patios and driveways from the home if separation exceeds one inch.
Settling or Heaving
Southern Homes will repair patios and driveways that settle or heave in excess of two inches or if such movement results in negative drainage (toward the house) or hazardous vertical displacement.
Spalling (Surface Chips)
Causes of spalling include repeated hosing of concrete for cleaning, animal urine, radiator overflow, and fertilizer. Repair of spalling is a home maintenance task.
Standing Water
Water may stand on exterior concrete patios and driveways for several hours after precipitation or from roof run-off. Southern Homes will correct conditions that cause water to remain longer than 12 hours unless it is from roof run-off.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
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. If your home includes a humidifier, closely observe manufacturer's directions for its use, especially during periods of cooler temperatures.
See also Ventilation.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Condensation results from a family’s lifestyle and Southern Homes has no control over this. The warranty coverage excludes condensation.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Use a cutting board to protect your counters when you cut or chop. Protect the counter from heat and from extremely hot pans. If you cannot put your hand on it, do not put it on the counter. Do not use countertops as ironing boards and do not set lighted cigarettes on the edge of the counter.
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 important to keep moisture from reaching the wood under the laminates and to prevent warping.
Cleaning
Avoid abrasive cleaners that will damage the luster of the surface.
Mats
Rubber drain mats can trap moisture beneath them, causing the laminated plastic to warp and blister. Dry the surface as needed.
Wax
Wax is not necessary, but it can be used to make counters gleam.
See also Ceramic Tile.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
During inspections we confirm that all countertops are in acceptable condition. We repair noticeable surface damage such as chips, cracks, and scratches noted on the inspection list. Repair of surface damage that occurs during or after your move-in is one of your home maintenance responsibilities.
Laminates
Laminated countertops will have one or more discernible seams. Southern Homes will repair gaps or differential at the seams that exceed 1/16 inch.
Manufactured Marble
Edges should be smooth and even. Where backsplash joints occur at corners, the top edges should be even within 1/16 inch.
Separation from Wall
Separation of countertops from walls, backsplash, and around sinks results from normal shrinkage of materials. Southern Homes will recaulk these areas one time during the materials and workmanship warranty. Subsequently caulking will be your home maintenance responsibility.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Wood doors installed in your home are subject to such natural characteristics of wood as shrinkage and warping. Due to natural fluctuations of humidity and the use of forced air furnaces, showers, and dishwashers, interior doors may occasionally require minor adjustments.
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. Treat the finish with a wood preserver every three months to preserve the varnish and prevent the door from drying and cracking. Reseal stained exterior doors whenever the finish begins cracking or crazing.
Failure to Latch
If a door will not latch due to 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, as it can gum up or attract dirt. Graphite works well as a lubricant but can create a gray smudge on the door or floor covering beneath the hinge if too much is applied.
Keys
Keep a duplicate privacy lock key where children cannot reach it in the event a youngster locks him- or herself in a room. The top edge of the door casing is often used as a place to keep the key. A small screwdriver or similarly shaped device can open some types of privacy locks.
Locks
Lubricate door locks with graphite or other waterproof lubricant. Avoid oil, as it will gum up.
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.
Shrinkage
Use putty, filler, or latex caulk to fill any minor separations that develop at mitered joints in door trim. Follow with painting. Panels of wood doors shrink and expand in response to changes in temperature and humidity. Touching up the paint or stain on unfinished exposed areas is your home maintenance responsibility.
Sticking
The most common cause of a sticking door is the natural expansion of lumber due to changes in humidity. When sticking is due to swelling during a damp season, do not plane the door unless it continues to stick after the weather changes.
Before planing a door because of sticking, try two other steps: first, apply either a paste wax, light coat of paraffin, or candle wax to the sticking surface; or second, tighten the screws that hold the door jamb or door frame. If planing is necessary even after these measures, use sandpaper to smooth the door and paint the sanded area to seal against moisture.
Warping
If a door warps slightly, keeping it closed as much as possible often returns it to normal. Southern Homes will repair doors that warp in excess of 1/4 inch.
Weather Stripping
Weather stripping and exterior door thresholds occasionally require adjustment or replacement.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
During inspections we confirm that all doors are in acceptable condition and correctly adjusted. Southern Homes will repair construction damage to doors noted during inspections.
Adjustments
Due to normal settling of the home, doors may require adjustment for proper fit. Southern Homes will make such adjustments.
Panel Shrinkage
Panels of wood doors shrink and expand in response to changes in temperature and humidity. Although touching up the paint or stain on unfinished exposed areas is your home maintenance responsibility, Southern Homes will repair split panels that allow light to be visible.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
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 rafters to which the drywall is attached.
Repairs
With the exception of the one-time repair service provided by Southern Homes, care of drywall is your maintenance responsibility. Most drywall repairs can be easily made. This work is best done when you redecorate the room.
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. Cover it with spackle, which is available at paint and hardware stores. Apply two or three thin coats. When dry, sand the surface with fine-grain sandpaper, and then paint. You can fill indentations caused by sharp objects in the same manner.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
During inspections, we confirm that drywall surfaces are in acceptable condition. One time during the materials and workmanship warranty, Southern Homes 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.
Repainting the entire wall or the entire room to correct this is your choice and responsibility. You are also responsible for custom paint colors or wallpaper that has been applied subsequent to closing. Due to the effects of time on paint and wallpaper, as well as possible dye lot variations, touch-ups are unlikely to match the surrounding area.
Lighting Conditions
Southern Homes does not repair drywall flaws that are only visible under particular lighting conditions.
Related Warranty Repairs
If a drywall repair is needed as a result of poor workmanship (such as blisters in tape) or other warranty-based repair (such as a plumbing leak), Southern Homes completes the repair by touching up the repaired area with the same paint that was on the surface when the home was delivered. If more than one-third of the wall is involved, we will repaint the wall corner to corner.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
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 appliances, outlets, or other service. Should a failure occur in any part of your home, always check the breakers in the main 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 on will not restore service.
Breaker Tripping
Breakers trip due to overloads caused by plugging too many appliances into the circuit, a worn cord, defective appliance, or 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. If it trips when nothing is connected to it, you need an electrician. If the circuit remains on, one of the items you unplugged is defective and will require repair or replacement.
Buzzing
Fluorescent fixtures use transformer action to operate. This action sometimes causes a buzzing.
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 circuit breaker. Building codes require installation of these receptacles in bathrooms, 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 or power tools will 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 warranty does not cover such damage.
Each GFCI receptacle has a test and reset button. 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 and you will need to investigate the problem. One GFCI breaker can control up to three or four outlets.
Grounded System
Your electrical system is a three?wire grounded system. Never remove the bare wire that connects to the box or device.
Light Bulbs
You are responsible for replacing burned-out bulbs other than those noted during your orientation.
Modifications
If you wish to make any modifications, contact the electrician listed on the Emergency Phone Numbers you receive at the orientation. Having another electrician modify your electrical system during the warranty period can void that portion of your warranty.
Outlets
If an outlet is not working, check first to see if it is controlled by a wall switch or GFCI. Next, check the breaker.
If there are small children in the home, install safety plugs to cover unused outlets. This also minimizes the air infiltration that sometimes occurs with these outlets. Teach children to never
touch electrical outlets, sockets, or fixtures.
Underground Cables
Before digging, check the location of buried service leads by calling the local utility locating service. In most cases, wires run in a straight line from the service panel to the nearest public utility pad. Maintain positive drainage around the foundation to protect this service.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
During inspections we confirm that light fixtures are in acceptable condition and that all bulbs are working. Southern Homes warranty excludes any fixture you supplied.
Designed Load
Southern Homes will repair any electrical wiring that fails to carry its designed load to meet specifications. If electrical outlets, switches, or fixtures do not function as intended, Southern Homes will repair or replace them.
Power Surge
Power surges are the result of local conditions beyond the control of Southern Homes and are excluded from warranty coverage. These can result in burned-out bulbs or damage to sensitive electronic equipment such as TVs, alarm systems, and computers. Damage resulting from lightning strikes are excluded from warranty coverage.
Homeowner Care and Maintenance
Carefully read the manufacturer's literature and warranty for your specific model of water heater.
Drain Tank
Review and follow the manufacturer's timetable and instructions for draining several gallons of water from the bottom of the water heater. This reduces build-up of chemical deposits from the water, thereby prolonging the life of the tank as well as saving energy dollars. Also drain the tank if it is being shut down during periods of freezing temperatures. Carefully follow the instructions in the manufacturer's literature.
Element Cleaning or Replacement
The heating elements in the water heater will require periodic cleaning. The frequency is determined in part by the quality of the water in your area. Again, refer to the manufacturer’s literature for step-by-step instructions and drawings, or contact an authorized service company.
No Hot Water
If you discover you have no hot water, check the breaker, the temperature setting, and the water- supply valve before calling for service. Refer to the manufacturer's literature for locations of these items and other troubleshooting information.
Pressure Relief Valve
At least once each year, manually operate the pressure relief valve. Stay clear of the discharge line to avoid injury. See manufacturer's literature for diagrams and detailed instructions.
Safety
Keep the area around a water heater clear of stored household items. Never use the top of the water heater as a storage shelf
Temperature
Temperature settings on an electric water heater will produce approximately the temperatures listed below:
Hot 120 degrees F A 130 degrees F B 140 degrees F C 150 degrees F Very Hot 160 degrees F
The recommended setting for operation of a dishwasher is B, or 140 degrees. Higher settings can waste energy dollars and increase the danger of injury from scalding. Hot water will take longer to arrive at sinks, tubs, and showers that are farther from the water heater.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Refer to the manufacturer's warranty for complete information regarding warranty coverage on your water heater.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Most of us feel a fireplace is an excellent way to create a warm, cozy atmosphere. However, without sufficient information, your use of the fireplace can result in heat (and dollars) being wasted. To help prevent that, consider the following points.
Look upon burning a fire as a luxury that adds much to the atmosphere but just a little to the heat in a home. About 10 percent of the heat produced by a fire is radiated into the house. In many older homes, the air used by the fireplace for combustion is replaced with cold outside air drawn in through cracks around doors and windows. However, your home is constructed so tightly that this does not happen. We install a fresh air vent to supply the fireplace with combustion air and reduce the amount of heated air the fire draws from your house. Open this vent before starting the fire as you do the damper.
Close the damper and cold air vent when not in use. Leaving these open is equivalent to having an open window in the house. If the fire is still burning, but you are finished enjoying it, use glass doors to prevent heated air from being drawn up the chimney until your damper can be closed.
One caution on the use of glass doors: do not close them over a roaring fire, especially if you are burning hard woods (such as oak or hickory) because this could break the glass. Also, when closing the doors over a burning fire, open the mesh screens first. This prevents excessive heat build?up on the mesh, which might result in warping or discoloration.
Your objective in building a fire should be a clean, steady, slow?burning fire. Begin with a small fire to allow the components of the fireplace to heat up slowly. Failure to do so may damage the fireplace and can void the warranty. Start the fire by burning kindling and newspaper under the grate; two to three layers of logs stacked with air space between, largest logs to the rear, works best. One sheet of paper burned on top of the stack will help the chimney start to draw. Any logs 6 inches in diameter or larger should be split.
Do not burn trash in the fireplace and never use any type of liquid fire starter.
Remove old ashes and coals from under the grate when completely cool. A light layer is desirable as an insulator and will help to reflect heat.
Chimney Cleaning
Creosote and other wood-burning by?products accumulate inside the flue over a period of time. This build-up can be a fire hazard. The way you use your fireplace and the type of wood you burn determine the frequency of your chimney cleanings. For instance, burning soft woods or improperly seasoned woods necessitates more frequent cleaning. Hire a qualified chimney sweep for this cleaning.
Spark Arrester
If the spark arrester becomes clogged, the diminished air flow will affect the performance of the fireplace and may be a fire hazard. Have the arrester cleaned professionally when needed.
Gas Fireplace
Southern Homes offers direct-vent gas fireplaces. If you ordered this type of fireplace, it is demonstrated during the orientation. Read and follow all manufacturer’s directions.
A slight delay between turning the switch on and flame ignition is normal. The flames should ignite gently and silently. If you notice any deviation from this and any gas smell, immediately shut off the switch and report it to the gas company.
Excessive winds can cause a downdraft, which can blow out the pilot, requiring you to relight it before using the fireplace.
The exterior vent cover for a direct-vent gas fireplace becomes extremely hot when the fireplace is operating.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Fireplaces are not intended to be the sole heat source in the home. The fireplace should function properly when Southern Homes and the manufacturer's directions are followed.
Discoloration
Discoloration of the firebox or brick is a normal result of use and requires no corrective action.
Downdraft
Although extremely high winds can result in a downdraft, this condition should be temporary and occasional. We will determine and correct continuous malfunction if caused by a construction or design defect.
Glass Doors
During inspections we confirm that glass fireplace doors, when included with the home, are in acceptable condition.
Water Infiltration
In unusually heavy or prolonged precipitation, especially when accompanied by high winds, some water can enter the home through the chimney. The warranty excludes this occurrence.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
We install the foundation of your home according to the recommendations of our consulting engineer. The foundation is poured concrete with post-tension cables. To protect your home's foundation, follow guidelines for installation and maintenance of landscaping and drainage in this manual.
Cracks
Even though an engineer designed the foundation and we constructed it according to engineering requirements, surface cracks can still develop. Surface cracks are not detrimental to the structural integrity of your home.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Shrinkage or backfill cracks are not unusual in foundation walls. Southern Homes will seal cracks that exceed 1/8 inch in width.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Since the garage door is a large, moving object, periodic maintenance is necessary.
30-Weight Oil
Every six months, apply a 30-weight automobile oil or similar lubricant to all moving parts: track, rollers, hinges, pulleys, and springs. 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.
Lock
If the lock becomes stiff, apply a silicone or graphite lubricant. Do not use oil on a lock, as it will stiffen in winter and make the lock difficult to operate.
Opener
To prevent damage to a garage door opener, be sure the door is completely unlocked and the rope-pull has been removed before using the operator. If you have an opener installed after closing on your home, we suggest that you order it from the company that provided and installed the garage door to assure uninterrupted warranty coverage. Be familiar with the steps for manual operation of the door in the event of a power failure.
If Southern Homes installed a door opener as one of your selections, during orientation we demonstrate the electric eye that provides a safety stop in the event someone crosses through the opening while the overhead door is in motion. Use care not to place tools or other stored items where they interfere with the function of the electric eye.
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, after the expiration of the one-year warranty, have any needed adjustments made by a qualified specialist. The door springs are under a considerable amount of tension and require special tools and knowledge for accurate and safe servicing. Have the door inspected by a professional garage door technician after any significant impact to the door.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
The garage door should operate smoothly and with reasonable ease. The door can become misaligned and require adjustment, which Southern Homes will provide unless the problem is caused by the installation of a garage door opener subsequent to closing on the home.
Light Visible
Garage overhead doors cannot be air tight. Some light will be visible around the edges and across the top of the door. Severe weather conditions may result in some precipitation entering around the door.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
You will find shut-offs on gas lines near their connection to each item that operates on gas. In addition, there is a main shut-off at the meter. We point these out during the orientation. If you suspect a gas leak, leave the home and call the gas company immediately for emergency service.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
The gas company is responsible for leaks up to the meter. Southern Homes will correct leaks from the meter into the home.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Carefully read and follow the manufacturer's literature for your specific model of water heater.
Condensation
Condensation inside your new water heater may drip onto the burner flame. This causes no harm and in most cases will disappear in a short period of time.
Drain Tank
Review and follow manufacturer's timetable and instructions for draining several gallons of water from the bottom of the water heater. This reduces the build-up of chemical deposits from the water, prolonging the life of the tank and saving energy dollars.
Pilot
Never light a gas pilot when the water heater tank is empty. Always turn off the gas before shutting off the cold water supply to the tank.
To light the water heater pilot, first remove the cover panel on the tank to expose the pilot. Then rotate the on-off pilot knob to the pilot position. When the knob is in this position, the red button can be depressed.
While depressing the red button, hold a match at the pilot. Once the pilot lights, continue to hold the red button down for 30 to 60 seconds. When you release the red button, the pilot should stay lit. If it does not, wait several minutes to allow the gas to dissipate from the tank and repeat the entire process. If it stays lit, rotate the on-off pilot knob to the on position.
Reinstall the cover panel and then adjust the temperature setting with the regulating knob on the front of the tank.
Water heaters sometimes collect small quantities of dirty water and scale in the main gas lines, which may put out the pilot light.
While away from home for an extended period of time, set the temperature to its lowest point and leave the pilot lit.
Safety
Vacuum the area around a gas?fired water heater to prevent dust from interfering with proper flame combustion. Avoid using the top of a heater as a storage shelf.
Temperature
The recommended thermostat setting for normal everyday use is “normal.” 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 farther from the water heater.
No Hot Water
If you discover that you have no hot water, check the pilot, temperature setting, and water supply valve before calling for service. Refer to the manufacturer's literature for specific locations of these items and other troubleshooting information.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Refer to the manufacturer's warranty for information regarding coverage of the water heater.
See also Plumbing.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
The final grades around your home have been inspected and approved for proper drainage of your lot. Our surveyor completes a drainage certification and then the local building authorities as well as Southern Homes inspect the site.
Drainage
Typically, the grade around your home should slope 1 foot in the first 10 feet, tapering to a 2 percent slope. In most cases, drainage swales do not follow 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 and will void your warranty.
Rototilling
Rototilling can significantly change drainage swales. You can minimize this by rototilling parallel to the swales rather than across them.
Settling
The area we excavated for your home's foundation was larger than the home to allow room to work. In addition, some trenching is necessary for installation of utility lines. Although we replaced and compacted the soil, it does not return to its original density. Some settling will occur, especially after prolonged or heavy rainfall or melting of large amounts of snow. Settling 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.
See also Landscaping.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
We established the final grade to ensure adequate drainage away from the home. Maintaining this drainage is your responsibility. If you alter the drainage pattern after closing, or if changes in drainage occur due to lack of maintenance, the warranty is void.
Backfill Settlement
Backfilled or excavated areas around the foundation and at utility trenches should not interfere with the drainage away from your home. If these areas settle during the first year, Southern Homes will fill the areas one time and subsequently will provide you with fill dirt to maintain positive drainage.
Erosion
Southern Homes is not responsible for weather-caused damage to unlandscaped yards after the final grade has been established or the closing date, whichever occurs last.
New Sod
New sod installation and the extra watering that accompanies it can cause temporary drainage problems, as can unusually severe weather conditions.
Recommendations
Southern Homes documents the grades that exist at the time of delivery of your home or as soon thereafter as possible. The ground must be dry and free of frost to make these determinations. Once final grades are set, Southern Homes will inspect drainage problems reported in writing during the warranty period, compare grades to those originally established, and advise you on corrective actions you might take.
Swales
Southern Homes does not alter drainage patterns to suit individual landscape plans. Typically, a lot receives water from and passes water on to other lots, so changes in grade often affect adjacent or nearby lots. Southern Homes advises against making such changes. After a heavy rain, water may stand in swales up to 48 hours.
Under Concrete
Southern Homes will fill visible sunken areas under concrete during the first year.
Winter Grading
Due to weather conditions, especially during winter and early spring, the final grade may not have been established at the time of closing. We document the status of your grading at the time of delivery. When conditions permit, grading work will continue. Confirm that we have completed your grading before beginning landscaping.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Doorknobs and locks should operate correctly with little attention. Over time, they may need slight adjustments due to normal shrinkage of the framing. Occasionally, you may need to tighten screws.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
We confirm that all hardware is in acceptable condition during inspection. The warranty excludes repairs for cosmetic damage subsequent to the orientation. Southern Homes will repair hardware items that do not function as intended.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
In daily care of hardwood floor, preventive maintenance is the primary goal.
Cleaning
Sweep on a daily basis or as needed. Never wet mop a hardwood 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. Check with the hardwood company if your floor has a water-based finish.
Dimples
Placing heavy furniture or dropping heavy or sharp objects on hardwood floors can result in dimples.
Filmy Appearance
A white, filmy appearance can result from moisture, often from wet shoes or boots.
Furniture Legs
Install proper floor protectors on furniture placed on hardwood floors. Protectors will allow chairs to move easily over the floor without scuffing. Regularly clean the protectors to remove any grit that may have accumulated.
Humidity
Wood floors respond noticeably to changes in humidity in your home. Especially during winter months the individual planks or pieces expand and contract as water content changes. A humidifier helps but does not eliminate this reaction.
Mats and Area Rugs
Use protective mats at the exterior doors to help prevent sand and grit from getting on the floor. Gritty sand is wood flooring's worst enemy. However, be aware that rubber backing on area rugs or mats can cause yellowing and warping of the floor surface.
Recoat
If your floors have a polyurethane finish, you may want to have an extra coat of polyurethane applied by a qualified contractor within six months to one year. The exact timing will depend on your particular lifestyle. If another finish was used, refer to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Separation
Expect some shrinkage around heat vents or any heat-producing appliances, or during seasonal weather changes.
See also Warping.
Shoes
Keep high heels in good repair. Heels that have lost their protective cap (thus exposing the fastening nail) will exert over 8,000 pounds of pressure per square inch on the floor. That's enough to damage hardened concrete; it will mark your wood floor.
Spills
Clean up food spills immediately with a dry cloth. Use a vinegar-and-warm-water solution for tough food spills.
Splinters
When floors are new, small splinters of wood can appear.
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.
Traffic Paths
A dulling of the finish in heavy traffic areas is likely.
Warping
Warping will occur if the floor repeatedly becomes wet or is thoroughly soaked even once. Slight warping in the area of heat vents or heat-producing appliances is also typical.
Wax
Waxing and the use of products like oil soap are neither necessary nor recommended. Once you wax a polyurethane finish floor, recoating is difficult because the new finish will not bond to the wax. The preferred maintenance is preventive cleaning and recoating annually or as needed to maintain the desired luster.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
During inspections we will confirm that hardwood floors are in acceptable condition. We will correct any readily noticeable cosmetic defects listed during the inspection. You are responsible for routine maintenance of hardwood floors.
Separations
Shrinkage will result in separations between the members of hardwood floors. If these exceed 1/8 inch, Southern Homes will fill them one time. Southern Homes is not responsible for removing excess filler that appears on the surface if the boards expand due to subsequent changes in humidity and expel the filler.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Good maintenance of the furnace can save energy dollars and prolong the life of the furnace. Carefully read and follow the manufacturer's literature on use and maintenance. The guidelines here include general information only.
Adjust Vents
Experiment with the adjustable registers in your home to establish the best heat flow for your lifestyle. Generally, you can reduce the heat in seldom-used or interior rooms. This is an individual matter and you will need to balance the system for your own family’s needs.
Avoid Overheating
Do not overheat your new home. Overheating can cause excessive shrinkage of framing lumber and may materially damage the home. In the beginning, use as little heat as possible and increase it gradually.
Blower Panel
You need to position the blower panel correctly for the furnace blower (fan) to operate. This panel compresses a button that tells the blower it is safe to operate. If this panel is not on tightly, the fan will not come on.
Never cover or block the combustion air vent in any way. Outside air is needed to supply the furnace with sufficient oxygen. Blocking the combustion air vent will cause the furnace to draw air down the vent pipe and pull poisonous gases back into your home.
Ductwork Noise
Some popping or pinging sounds are the natural result of ductwork heating and cooling in response to air flow as the system operates.
Filter
Remember to change or clean the filter monthly during the heating season (year-round if you also have air conditioning). A clogged filter can slow air flow and cause cold spots in your home. Although it takes less than one minute to change the filter, this is one of the most frequently overlooked details of normal furnace care. Buy filters in large quantity for the sake of convenience.
If you have a permanent, washable, removable filter, you need to clean this monthly. Use water only to clean the filter, tap to dry or air dry, and leave unit off for a brief period. Do not use soaps or detergents on the filter.
Furnished Home
The heating system was designed with a furnished home in mind. If you move in during the cooler part of the year and have not yet acquired all of your draperies and furnishings, the home may seem cooler than you would expect.
Gas Odor
If you smell gas, call the gas company immediately.
Odor
A new heating system may emit an odor for a few moments when you first turn it on. An established system may emit an odor after being unused for an extended time (such as after the summer months if you do not use air conditioning). This is caused by dust that has settled in the ducts and should pass quickly.
On-Off Switch
The furnace has an on-off blower switch. This switch looks like a regular light switch and is located in a metal box outside the furnace. When turned off, this switch overrides all furnace commands and shuts down the blower. This is usually done only when maintenance service is being performed, although young children have been known to turn the furnace off using this switch. (If your furnace is a high-efficiency model, it does not have a pilot or an on-off switch.)
Registers
Heat register covers are removable and adjustable. You are responsible for adjusting the dampers in these covers to regulate the heat flow within the home. Registers in the rooms farther away from the furnace will usually need to be opened wider.
Return Air Vents
For maximum comfort and efficient energy use, arrange furniture and draperies to allow unobstructed air flow from registers and to cold air returns.
Temperature
Depending on the style of home, temperatures can normally vary from floor to floor as much as 10 degrees or more on extremely cold days. The furnace blower will typically cycle on and off more frequently and for shorter periods during severe cold spells.
Thermostat
The furnace will come on automatically when the temperature at the thermostat registers below the setting you have selected. Once the furnace is on, setting the thermostat to a higher temperature will not heat the home faster. Thermostats are calibrated to within plus or minus
5 degrees.
Trial Run
Have a trial run early in the fall to test the furnace. (The same applies to air conditioning in the spring.) If service is needed, it is much better to discover that before the heating season.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
We will install heating systems according to local building codes, as well as to engineering designs of the particular model home.
Adequacy of the system is determined by its ability to establish a temperature of 70 degrees F. as measured in the center of the room 5 feet above the floor. In extremely cold temperatures (10 degrees below or colder), the systems should be able to maintain a temperature differential of 80 degrees from the outside temperature.
Duct Placement
The exact placement of heat ducts may vary from those positions shown in similar floor plans.
Duct Work
Although the heat system is not a sealed system, the ductwork should remain attached and securely fastened. If it becomes unattached, Southern Homes will repair as needed.
Furnace Sounds
Expansion or contraction of metal ductwork results in ticking or popping sounds. While eliminating all these sounds is impossible, Southern Homes will correct oilcanning. (Oilcanning occurs when a large area of sheet metal like those found in air ducts makes a loud noise as it moves up and down in response to temperature changes.)
Thermostat
Thermostats are calibrated to plus or minus 5 degrees.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
The effectiveness of blown insulation is diminished if it is uneven. As the last step in any work done in your attic (for example, the installation of a TV antenna), you should confirm that the insulation is smooth and even. Do not step on drywall ceilings, because this can result in personal injury or damage to the drywall.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Southern Homes will install insulation to meet or exceed the building codes applicable at the time of construction and outlined as part of your purchase agreement.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Plan to install the basic components of your landscaping as soon after closing as weather permits. In addition to meeting your homeowners association requirements to landscape in a timely manner, well-designed landscaping prevents erosion and protects the foundation of your home.
Additions
Before installing patio additions or other permanent improvements, consider soil conditions in the design and engineering of your addition.
Backfill
We construct the foundation of your home beginning with an excavation into the earth. When the foundation walls are complete, the area surrounding them is backfilled. Soil in this area is not as compact as undisturbed ground. Water can penetrate through the backfill area to the lower areas of your foundation. This can cause potentially severe problems. Avoid this through proper installation of landscaping and good maintenance of drainage.
Backfill areas will settle and require prompt attention to avoid damage to your home and voiding of the structural warranty.
Keep downspout extensions in the down position to channel roof runoff away from the foundation area of your home. Routine inspection of downspouts, backfill areas, and other drainage components is an excellent maintenance habit.
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.
Contractors
You are responsible for changes to the drainage pattern made by any landscape, concrete, deck, or pool 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 Southern Homes.
Fencing
Installation of chain link/wood/or other fencing can impede the flow of water through the swale areas of your property. Homeowners are responsible for swales after fencing is installed. Be sure to remove the fill dirt excavated from the fence posts. If left in swale areas, it will impede the drainage flow of your property.
Irrigation
Make provisions for efficient irrigation. Conduct weekly operational checks to ensure proper performance of the system. Direct sprinkler heads away from the home. Trickler or bubbler type irrigation systems are not recommended for use adjacent to the structure. Regularly drain and service sprinkler systems.
Planning
Locate plants and irrigation heads out of the way of pedestrian or bicycle traffic and car bumpers.
Space groves of trees or single trees to allow for efficient mowing and growth. Group plants with similar water, sun, and space requirements together.
See also Xeriscape.
Plant Selection
Plant with regard to your local climate. Favor native over exotic species. Consider ultimate size, shape, and growth of the species.
Requirements
Check with your local building department and homeowners association before designing, installing, or changing landscaping for any regulations that they require you to follow.
Soil Mix
Provide good soil mixes with sufficient organic material. Use mulch at least 3 inches deep to hold soil moisture and to help prevent weeds and soil compaction. In areas with high clay content, prepare the soil before installing your grass. First cover the soil with 2 inches of sand and 1 inch of manure that is treated and odorless. Rototill this into the soil to a depth of 6 inches (rototill parallel to the swales). Whether you use seed or sod, this preparation helps your lawn to retain moisture and require less water. Installing a lawn over hard soil permits water to run off with little or no penetration and your lawn will derive minimal benefit from watering or rain.
Apply appropriate fertilizer and weed and pest controls as needed for optimal growth. Investigate organic compounds for additional protection of the environment.
Utility Lines
A slight depression may develop in the front lawn along the line of the utility trench. To correct this, roll back the sod, spread top soil underneath to level the area, and then relay the sod.
Waiting to Landscape
If you leave ground unlandscaped, it erodes. Correcting erosion that occurs after closing is your responsibility.
Xeriscape
Southern Homes recommends careful consideration of landscape design and selection of planting materials to minimize the demands of your yard on water supplies. Detailed information about Xeriscape is available from reputable nurseries. This has the triple benefit of helping the
environment, saving on water bills, and reducing the amount of moisture that can reach your foundation.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Landscape materials we install are not warranted. We will confirm the healthy condition of all plant materials during the orientation. Maintaining landscaping is your responsibility.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Mildew is a fungus that spreads through the air in microscopic spores. They love moisture and feed on surfaces or dirt. On siding, they look like a layer of dirt. Cleaning mildew from your home is your responsibility. Solutions that remove mildew are available from local paint or home improvement stores. Wear protective eyewear and rubber gloves for this task; the chemicals that remove mildew are unfriendly to humans.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
We will remove any mildew noted during inspections. Southern Homes warranty excludes mildew.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
To clean your mirrors, use any reliable liquid glass cleaner or polisher available at most hardware or grocery stores. Avoid acidic cleaners and splashing water under the mirror; either can cause the silvering to deteriorate. Avoid getting glass cleaners on plumbing fixtures as some formulas can deteriorate the finish.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
We will confirm that all mirrors are in acceptable condition during inspection. Southern Homes will correct scratches, chips, or other damage to mirrors noted during the inspection.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Due to changes in the formula for paint (such as the elimination of lead to make paints safer), painted surfaces must be washed gently 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 do. Often, homeowners prefer the results obtained by touching up rather than washing.
Colors
Your selection sheets are your record of the paint and stain color names, numbers, and brands in your home.
Exterior
Regular attention will preserve the beauty and value of your home. Check the painted and stained surfaces of your home's exterior annually. Repaint before much 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 two to three years or as often as your paint manufacturer suggests for your area and climate. Climatic conditions control the chemical structure of the paint used on the exterior. Over time, this finish will fade and dull a bit.
When you repaint the exterior of your home, begin by resetting popped nails and removing blistered or peeling portions of paint with a wire brush or putty knife. Sand, spot with primer, and then paint the entire area. Use a quality exterior paint formulated for local climate conditions.
Avoid having sprinklers spray water on the exterior walls of your home. This will cause blistering, peeling, splintering, and other damage to the home.
Stain
For minor interior stain touch?ups, a furniture-polish-and-stain treatment is inexpensive, easy to use, and will blend in with the wood grain. Follow directions on the bottle.
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.
We provide samples of each paint used on your home. Store these with the lids tightly in place and in a location where they are not subjected to extreme temperatures.
Wall Cracks
We suggest that you wait until after the first heating season to repair drywall cracks or other separations due to shrinkage.
See also Drywall.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
During inspection, we will confirm that all painted or stained surfaces are in acceptable condition. Southern Homes will touch up paint as indicated on the inspection list. You are responsible for all subsequent touch?up, except painting we perform as part of another warranty repair.
Cracking
As it ages, exterior wood trim will develop minor cracks and raised grain. Much of this will occur during the first year. Raised grain permits moisture to get under the paint and can result in peeling. This is not a defect in materials or workmanship. Paint maintenance of wood trim and gutters is your responsibility.
Fading
Expect fading of exterior paint or stain due to the effects of sun and weather. Southern Homes warranty excludes this occurrence.
Touch-Up Visible
Paint touch-up is visible under certain lighting conditions.
Wood Grain
Due to wood characteristics, color variations will result when stain is applied to wood. This is natural and requires no repair. Today's water-base paints often make wood grain visible on painted trim. Southern Homes does not provide corrections for this condition.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Your home is equipped with telephone jacks as shown on the selection sheets. Initiating phone service, additions to phone service, and moving phone outlets for decorating purposes or convenience are your responsibility.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Southern Homes will correct outlets positioned so that a phone cannot be installed due to a cabinet or countertop that is part of the original home.
Southern Homes will repair wiring that does not perform as intended from the phone service box into the home. From the service box outward, care of the wiring is the responsibility of the local telephone service company.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
We want to draw your attention to a water-saving regulation that went into effect in 1993, which prohibits the manufacture of toilets that use more than 1.6 gallons of water per flush. In the search for a balance among comfort, convenience, and sensible use of natural resources, the government conducted several studies. The 1.6-gallon toilet turned out to be the size that consistently saves water.
As a result of implementing this standard, flushing twice is occasionally necessary to completely empty the toilet bowl. Even though you flush twice on occasion, rest assured that overall you are saving water and we have complied with the law. Similarly, flow restrictors are manufactured into most faucets and all shower heads and cannot be removed.
Aerators
Even though your plumbing lines have been flushed to remove dirt and foreign matter, small amounts of minerals may enter the line. Aerators on the faucets strain much of this from your water. Minerals caught in these aerators may cause the faucets to drip because washers wear more rapidly when they come in contact with foreign matter.
See also Dripping Faucet.
Cleaning
Follow manufacturer's directions for cleaning fixtures. Avoid abrasive cleansers. They remove the shiny finish and leave behind a porous surface that is difficult to keep clean. Clean plumbing fixtures with a soft sponge and soapy water (a nonabrasive cleaner or a liquid detergent is usually recommended by manufacturers). Then polish the fixtures with a dry cloth to prevent water spots.
Clogs
The main causes of toilet clogs are domestic items such as disposable diapers, excessive amounts of toilet paper, sanitary supplies, Q?tips, dental floss, and children's toys. Improper garbage disposal use also causes many plumbing clogs. Always use plenty of cold water when running the disposal. This recommendation also applies to grease; supplied with a steady flow of cold water, the grease congeals and is cut up by the blades. If you use hot water, the grease remains a liquid, then cools and solidifies in the sewer line. Allow the water to run 10 to 15 seconds after shutting off the disposal.
You can usually clear clogged traps with a plumber's helper (plunger). If you use chemical agents, follow directions carefully to avoid personal injury or damage to the fixtures.
Clean a plunger drain stopper—usually found in bathroom sinks—by loosening the nut under the sink at the back, pulling out the rod attached to the plunger, and lifting the stopper. Clean and return the mechanism to its original position.
Dripping Faucet
You can repair a dripping faucet by shutting off the water at the valve directly under the sink, then removing the faucet stem, changing the washer, and reinstalling the faucet stem. The shower head is repaired the same way. Replace the washer with another of the same type and size. You can minimize the frequency of this repair by remembering not to turn faucets off with excessive force. (Please note that some manufacturers do not use rubber washers.)
Extended Absence
If you plan to be away for an extended period, you should drain your water supply lines. To do this, shut off the main supply line and open the faucets to relieve pressure in the lines. You may also wish to shut off the water heater. Do this by turning off the cold water supply valve on top and the gas control at the bottom. Drain the tank by running a hose from the spigot on the bottom to the basement floor drain. If you leave the tank full, keep the pilot on and set the temperature to its lowest or "vacation" setting. Check manufacturer's directions for additional hints and instructions.
Freezing Pipes
Provided the home is heated at a normal level, pipes should not freeze at temperatures above
0 degrees F. Set the heat at 65 degrees F if you are away during winter months. Keep garage doors closed to protect plumbing lines running through this area from freezing temperatures.
In unusually frigid weather or if you will be gone more than a day or two, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes. Use an ordinary hair dryer to thaw pipes that are frozen. Never use an open flame.
Leaks
If a major plumbing leak occurs, the first step is to turn off the supply of water to the area involved. This may mean shutting off the water to the entire home. Then contact the appropriate contractor.
Low Pressure
Occasional cleaning of the aerators on your faucets (normally every three to four months) will allow proper flow of water. The water department controls the overall water pressure.
Marble or Manufactured Marble
Marble and manufactured marble will not chip as readily as porcelain enamel but can be damaged by a sharp blow. Avoid abrasive cleansers or razor blades on manufactured marble; both damage the surface. Always mix hot and cold water at manufactured marble sinks; running only hot water can damage the sink.
Outside Faucets
Proper care should be taken to protect your outside faucets from freezing in cold weather. You should remove hoses during freezing weather. 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 line that feeds an exterior faucet is a maintenance item. Note that Southern Homes does not warrant sillcocks against freezing.
Porcelain
You can damage porcelain enamel with a sharp blow from a heavy object or by scratching. Do not stand in the bathtub wearing shoes unless you have placed a protective layer of newspaper over the bottom of the tub. If you splatter paint onto the porcelain enamel surfaces during redecorating, wipe it up immediately. If a spot dries before you notice it, use a recommended solvent.
Running Toilet
To stop running water, check the shut-off float in the tank. You will most likely find it has lifted too high in the tank, preventing the valve from shutting off completely. In this case, gently bend the float rod down until it stops the water at the correct level. The float should be free and not rub the side of the tank or any other parts. Also check the chain on the flush handle. If it is too tight, it will prevent the rubber stopper at the bottom of the tank from sealing, resulting in running water.
Shut-Offs
Your main water shut-off is located near your meter. You use this shut-off for major water emergencies such as a water line break or when you install a sprinkler system or build an addition to your home. Each toilet has a shut-off on the water line under the tank. Hot and cold shut-offs for each sink are on the water lines under the sink.
Stainless Steel
Clean stainless steel sinks with soap and water to preserve their luster. Avoid abrasive cleaners; these will damage the finish. An occasional cleaning with a good stainless steel cleaner will enhance the finish. Avoid leaving produce on a stainless steel surface, since prolonged contact with produce can stain the finish.
Tank Care
Avoid exposing the toilet to blows from sharp or heavy objects, which can cause chipping or cracking. Avoid abnormal pressures against the sides of the tank. It is possible to crack the tank at the points where it is attached to the bowl.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
During the inspection we will confirm that all plumbing fixtures are in acceptable condition and that all faucets and drains operate freely. Southern Homes will correct clogged drains that occur during the first 30 days after closing. If a household item is removed from a clogged drain during this time, we will bill you for the drain service. After the first 30 days, you are responsible for correcting clogged drains.
Cosmetic Damage
Southern Homes will correct any fixture damage noted on the inspection list. Repairing chips, scratches, or other surface damage noted subsequent to the closing list is your responsibility.
Exterior Faucets
Southern Homes will repair leaks at exterior faucets noted on the orientation list. Subsequent to orientation, repair of a broken line to an exterior faucet is your responsibility.
Leaks
Southern Homes will repair leaks in the plumbing system. If a plumbing leak caused by a warranted item results in drywall or floor covering damage, Southern Homes will repair or replace items that were part of the home as originally purchased. We do not make adjustments for secondary damages (for example, damage to wallpaper, drapes, and personal belongings). Insurance should cover these items.
Noise
Changes in temperature or the flow of the water itself will cause some noise in the pipes. This is normal and requires no repair. Southern Homes will repair persistent water hammer. Expect temperatures to vary if water is used in more than one location in the home.
Supply
Southern Homes will correct construction conditions that disrupt the supply of water to your home.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Although resilient floors are designed for minimum care, they do have maintenance needs. Follow any manufacturer's specific recommendations for care and cleaning. Some resilient floors require regular application of a good floor finish. This assures you of retaining a high gloss. However, avoid using cleaning or finishing agents on the new floor until the adhesive has thoroughly set. This will take about two weeks.
Color and Pattern
Your color selection sheets provide a record of the brand, style, and color of floor coverings in your home. Please retain this information for future reference.
Limit Water
Wipe up spills and vacuum crumbs instead of washing resilient floors frequently with water. Limit mopping or washing with water; excessive amounts of water on resilient floors can penetrate seams and get under edges, causing the material to lift and curl.
Moving Furniture
Moving appliances across resilient floor covering can result in tears and wrinkles. Install coasters on furniture legs to prevent permanent damage. If you damage the resilient floor, you can have it successfully patched by professionals. We leave any remnants of floor covering materials for this reason.
No Wax
The resilient flooring installed in your home is the no-wax type. No?wax means a clear, tough coating that provides both a shiny appearance and a durable surface. However, even this surface will scuff or mark. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintaining the finish.
Raised Nail Heads
Raised nail heads are the result of movements of the floor joist caused by natural shrinkage and deflection. We have used special nails and glued the underlayment to help minimize this movement. If a nail head becomes visible through resilient flooring, place a block of wood over it and hit the block with a hammer to reset the nail.
Scrubbing and Buffing
Frequent scrubbing or electric buffing is harder on floors than regular foot traffic. Use acrylic finishes if you scrub or buff.
Seams
Any brand or type of resilient flooring may separate slightly due to shrinkage. Seams can lift or curl if excessive moisture is allowed to penetrate them. You can use a special caulking at tub or floor joints to seal seams at those locations. Avoid getting large amounts of water on the floor from baths and showers.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
We will confirm that resilient floor covering is in acceptable condition during your inspection. Southern Homes warranty does not cover damage to resilient floors caused by moving furniture or appliances into the home. We can assist you in contacting professionals who can repair such damage if it occurs in your home. Southern Homes is not responsible for discontinued selections.
Adhesion
Resilient floor covering should adhere. Southern Homes will repair lifting or bubbling and nail pops that appear on the surface.
Ridges
Southern Homes has sanded and filled the joints of underlayment to minimize the possibility of ridges showing through resilient floor coverings. Ridging is measured by centering a 6-inch straight edge perpendicular to the ridge with one end tight to the floor. If the opposite end of the straight edge is 1/8 inch or more from the floor, Southern Homes will repair this condition.
Seams
Seams will occur and are sealed at the time of installation. Southern Homes will correct gaps in excess of 1/16 inch where resilient flooring pieces meet or 1/8 inch where resilient flooring meets another material. Southern Homes will correct curling at seams unless caused by excessive water.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
The shingles on your roof do not require any treatment or sealer.
Leaks
If a leak occurs, try to detect the exact location. This will greatly simplify finding the area that requires repair when the roof is dry.
Limit Walking
Limit walking on your roof. Your weight and movement can loosen the roofing material and in turn result in leaks. Never walk on the roof of your home when the shingles are wet—they are slippery.
Severe Weather
After severe storms, do a visual inspection of the roof for damages. Notify your insurance company if you find pieces of shingle in the yard or shingle edges lifted on the roof.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Southern Homes will repair roof leaks other than those caused by severe weather, such as hail damage, or some action you have taken, such as walking on the roof. Roof repairs are made only when the roof is dry.
Inclement Weather
Storm damage is excluded from warranty coverage. Notify your homeowner insurance company if storm damage is discovered.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Some floor and stair squeaks are unavoidable. Although Southern Homes does not warrant against floor squeaks, a reasonable effort will be made to correct them.
Floor Deflection
Floors will deflect (bend) when walked on. This will be more noticeable next to hutches, book cases, pianos, chairs, and other heavy furniture. This is not a structural deficiency and Southern Homes will take no action for this occurrence.
Floor Level
Floors will be level to within 1/4 inch within any 32-inch distance as measured perpendicular to any ridge or indentation. Southern Homes will correct floor slope that exceeds 1/240 of the room.
Plumb Walls
Southern Homes will correct walls that are out of plumb more than 1/2 inch in an 8-foot distance or walls that are bowed more than 1/4 inch in any 32-inch measurement.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
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.
See also Paint and Wood Trim.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Southern Homes will correct any separation at joints or where siding meets another material if the separation allows water to enter the home. Southern Homes will correct delaminating siding.
Smoke Detectors
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Read the manufacturer's manual for detailed information on the care of your smoke detectors.
Cleaning
For your safety, clean each smoke detector monthly to prevent a false alarm or lack of response in a fire. After cleaning, push the test button to confirm the alarm is working.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Southern Homes does not represent that the smoke detectors will provide the protection for which they are installed or intended. We will test smoke detectors during the orientation to confirm that they are working and to familiarize you with the alarm. You are responsible for obtaining fire insurance.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
No known method of installation prevents all vibration or squeaks in a staircase. A shrinkage crack will develop where the stairs meet the wall. When this occurs, apply a thin bead of latex caulk and, when dry, touch up with paint.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Although Southern Homes does not warrant against stair vibration and squeaks, a reasonable effort will be made to correct them.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Stucco is a brittle cement product that is subject to expansion and contraction. Minor hairline cracks will develop in the outer layer of stucco. This is normal and does not reduce the function of the stucco in any way.
Drainage
To ensure proper drainage, keep dirt and concrete flatwork a minimum of 6 inches below the stucco screed (mesh underneath final coat of stucco). Do not pour concrete or masonry over the stucco screed or right up to the foundation.
Efflorescence
The white, powdery substance that sometimes accumulates on stucco surfaces is called efflorescence. This is a natural phenomenon and cannot be prevented. In some cases, you can remove it by scrubbing with a stiff brush and vinegar. Consult your home center or hardware store for commercial products to remove efflorescence.
Sprinklers
Since stucco is not a water barrier, avoid spraying water from irrigation or watering systems on stucco surfaces to avoid possible leaks. Check the spray from the lawn and plant irrigation system frequently to make certain that water is not spraying or accumulating on stucco surfaces.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
One time during the warranty period, Southern Homes will repair stucco cracks. The repair will not exactly match the surrounding area.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
We treat the foundation for termites and provide you with a certificate confirming that treatment. Plan to renew this treatment annually or as directed by the literature that accompanies the certificate. Treatment for other types of insects or animal infestations is your responsibility.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
We certify treatment of your foundation for termites at closing. This is our final action for termites. Southern Homes warranty excludes treatment for any other insect (such as ants) or animal (such as mice) infestations.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Homes today are built more tightly than ever. This saves energy dollars but creates a potential concern. Condensation, cooking odors, indoor pollutants, radon, and carbon monoxide may all accumulate. We provide mechanical and passive methods for ventilating homes. Your attention to ventilation is important to health and safety.
Building codes require attic and crawl space vents to minimize accumulation of moisture. Attic ventilation occurs through vents in the soffit (the underside of the overhangs) or on gable ends. Driving rain or snow sometimes enters the attic through these vents. Do not cover them to prevent this. Instead, cover the insulation in front of the vent. When you do this, precipitation that blows in safely evaporates and ventilation can still occur.
Your daily habits can help keep your home well ventilated:
Proper ventilation will prevent excessive moisture from forming on the inside of the windows. This helps reduce cleaning chores considerably.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
Southern Homes warranty guidelines for active components (for example, exhaust fans) are discussed under the appropriate headings (such as electrical systems, heating system, and so on).
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Contact a glass company for reglazing of any windows that break. Glass is difficult to install without special tools.
Cleaning
Clean aluminum metal surfaces with warm, clear water. Do not use powdered cleaner. After each cleaning, apply a silicone lubricant. 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 for its use.
Condensation that accumulates between the panes of glass in dual-glazed windows indicates a broken seal. Southern Homes will replace the window if this occurs during the warranty period.
Door Locks
Acquaint yourself with the operation of patio door hardware for maximum security.
Door Tracks
Keep patio door tracks clean for smooth operation and to prevent damage to the door frame. Silicone lubricants work well for these tracks.
Invisible Glass
Under certain lighting conditions, door glass may be hard to see. If you keep the screen fully closed when the glass door is open, your family will be accustomed to opening something before going through.
Sticking Windows
Most sliding windows (both vertical and horizontal) are designed for a 10-pound pull. If sticking occurs or excessive pressure is required to open or close a window, apply a silicone lubricant. This is available at hardware stores. Avoid petroleum-based products.
Storing Screens
Many homeowners remove and store screens for the winter to allow more light into the home. To make re-installation more convenient, label each screen as you remove it. Use caution: screens perforate easily and the frames bend if they are not handled with care.
Weep Holes
In heavy rains, water may collect in the bottom channel of window frames. Weep holes are provided to allow excess water to escape to the outside. Keep the bottom window channels and weep holes free of dirt and debris for proper operation.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
We will confirm that all windows and screens are in acceptable condition during the inspection. Southern Homes will repair or replace broken windows or damaged screens noted on the inspection list.
Windows should operate with reasonable ease and locks should perform as designed.
Infiltration
Some air and dust will infiltrate around windows, especially before the installation of landscaping in the general area. Southern Homes warranty excludes this occurrence.
Scratches
Southern Homes confirms that all window glass is in acceptable condition at the inspection. Minor scratches on windows can result from delivery, handling, and other construction activities. Southern Homeswill replace windows that have scratches readily visible from a distance of 4 feet. Southern Homes does not replace windows that have scratches visible only under certain lighting conditions.
Tinting
If you add tinting to dual-glazed windows, all warranties are voided. Damage can result from condensation or excessive heat build-up between the panes of glass. Refer to the manufacturer’s literature for additional information.
See also Ventilation.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Shrinkage of wood trim occurs during the first two years or longer, depending on temperature and humidity. All lumber is more vulnerable to shrinkage during the heating season. Maintaining a moderate and stable temperature helps to minimize the effects of shrinkage. Wood will shrink less lengthwise than across the grain. Wood shrinkage can result in separation at joints of trim pieces. You can usually correct this with caulking and touch-up painting.
Shrinkage may also cause a piece of trim to pull away from the wall. If this occurs, drive in another nail close to, but not exactly in, the existing nail hole. Fill the old nail hole with putty and touch up with paint as needed. If the base shoe (small trim between base molding and the floor) appears to be lifting from the floor, this is probably due to slight shrinkage of the floor joists below. Again, you can correct this condition by removing the old nails and renailing. You may prefer to wait until after the first heating season to make any needed repairs at one time when redecorating.
See also Expansion and Contraction.
Southern Homes Warranty Guidelines
During the inspection we will confirm that wood trim is in acceptable condition. Minor imperfections in wood materials will be visible and will require no action. Southern Homes will correct readily noticeable construction damage such as chips and gouges listed during the orientation.
Exterior
Southern Homes will caulk and apply touch-up paint to cracks in exterior trim components that exceed 3/16 inch. We provide this repair one time only near the end of the first year. Paint or stain touch-up will not match. We will correct any separation at joints that allows water to enter the home.
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.
| Item | Monthly | Quarterly | Semiannually | Annually | Comment |
| Clean and test smoke alarms | X | ||||
| Test and reset all GFCIs | X | ||||
| Clean and change furnace filter | X | ||||
| Operate heat system | X | early in the fall | |||
| Operate air conditioning system | X | early in the spring | |||
| Inspect drainage | X | ||||
| Seal concrete cracks | X | ||||
| Inspect exterior paint or stain | X | ||||
| Touch up caulk | X | ||||
| Touch up grout | X | ||||
| Lube garage overhead door and tighten bolts | X | ||||
| Drain some water from bottom of water heater | X | or as directed by the manufacturer's literature | |||
| Clean gutters | X | ||||
| Operate pressure relief valve on water heater | X | ||||
| Clean window weep holes | X | or as needed | |||
| Chimney cleaning | X | or as needed |