SECTION 31 : Landscape 31.1 Landscape
30.5 Movement Poured concrete retaining walls are engineered to allow for small amounts of movement. To allow sections of walls to expand and contract, control joints are placed periodically. In some instances, these might be placed at breaks in the wall such as corners or half turns. In a long, straight run, you should expect to see them periodically (the distance between is determined by the design of the wall). The expected amount of movement should not be noticeable without some type of measuring device. However, if any discernable amount of movement is evidenced in the wall, the movement should be investigated further. If the movement is determined to be structurally significant, the Builder, for a period of ten years, will take the necessary steps to ensure the wall is structurally sound. 30.6 Cracks Hairline cracks, a normal occurrence in retaining walls, are considered cosmetic. The Builder will repair cracks that exceed ¼ inch in width or vertical displacement by filling, patching, or grinding for a period of two years. For cracks greater than ¼ inch in walls located immediately adjacent to a foundation, the issue should be investigated further. If the issue is determined to be structurally significant, the Builder, for a period of ten years, will take the necessary steps to ensure the wall is structurally sound. 30.7 Leaks Block walls are designed to allow water to leak through them to relieve hydrostatic pressure. However, if the wall has been engineered with a designated drainage system, water should not leak through the wall in places other than through the designated system. The Homeowner is responsible to make sure that drainage systems are not clogged to ensure they are kept in working order. The Homeowner is also responsible for maintaining the grade at the top and sides of the wall, so water is diverted away from the wall and the grade does not raise higher than the damp-proofing barrier. If water does leak through the wall other than through a designated system, the Builder, for a period of two years, will take the appropriate action to fix the leak.
Due to regional variances in temperature and terrain, the Builder does not offer any warranty on landscaping, e.g., sod, trees, shrubs, flowers, etc.
SECTION 32: Driveways and Exterior
Concrete Surfaces 32.1 Asphalt Driveways
For a period of one year, asphalt driveways containing cracks exceeding ¼ inch wide will be repaired by the Builder, and the Builder will repair any depression which retains water in excess of 1 inch deep caused by settlement. Extreme heat will cause indentations and surface deterioration if cars or trucks are parked for long periods of time in the same location. These indentations caused by the long-term parking of cars or trucks are not covered by the Limited Warranty. Damage from heavy delivery trucks is not warranted. Heaving of driveways – of any material – due to frost is a normal condition in cold climates and is not warranted.
HOME TIP
To maintain your driveway, apply a sealcoat mixture every two years to
protect the surface, fill in crevices, maintain the appearance of your driveway, and help keep water from penetrating and deteriorating the asphalt. Keep the driveway free from gasoline and motor oil. This will help prevent deterioration of the driveway. Fill any cracks with asphalt filler as soon as they show.
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