29.5 Cracks in Masonry Chimney Cap or Crown It is normal for chimney caps to crack due to expansion and contraction. Chimney caps should be installed at least 2 inches thick to minimize cracking. The Builder, for a period of one year, will replace any cracked chimney cap that is less than 2 inches thick and will fill any crack larger than 1⁄8 inch with grout to minimize water intrusion. 29.6 Chimney Separation Chimneys should not separate more than ½ inch from the attached structure. If a separation exceeding ½ inch from the attached structure does occur, the Builder, for a period of one year, will determine the cause and correct the problem. If such movement occurs after the first year and it is determined that the movement is related to or has resulted in a structural issue, the Builder, for a period of ten years, will correct the problem.
30.3 Efflorescence Efflorescence is the white powder that can appear on the surface of a masonry wall. It is caused when water seeps through the wall, dissolving salts inside of the structure. The water then evaporates, leaving the salt on the surface. This is a normal condition; therefore, the Builder is not responsible for efflorescence. If the entire face of a wall is covered with efflorescence, the grade at the top of the wall should be checked to ensure that water is not entering between the wall and the damp- proofing membrane. The Builder has established proper grade at the time of closing. If the Homeowner modifies the grade with additional grading, plantings, or any other obstructions, there may be an increased chance for water intrusion that may lead to efflorescence occurring. For information on cleaning efflorescence, refer to Section 12.7 of the Limited Warranty. 30.4 Foundation/Base If the retaining wall has a below-ground foundation, the base of a retaining wall should not be visible. This would expose the foundation and the dirt around it to erosion. The Builder has established proper grade at time of closing and is not responsible for erosion after close of escrow. The Homeowner is responsible for ensuring that the foundation is not visible and that the proper grade is maintained at the base of the wall sloping away from the foundation.
SECTION 30: Retaining Walls 30.1 Definition
A retaining wall is a structure built to provide a barrier to movement of soil or rock. Retaining walls generally are made of steel sheet piles or masonry – stone, brick, or concrete. 30.2 Drainage By their nature, retaining walls will retain moisture if an adequate drainage system is not provided. The Builder has installed drainage systems to ensure water drains from the retaining wall correctly. The Homeowner should periodically inspect the drainage systems to ensure they are not clogged and that water continues to drain properly. If moisture is not draining properly, it can negatively affect both the aesthetic and structural integrity of the retaining wall.
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