SECTION 2: What Your Home Has a Right to Expect From You
2.5 Since the mechanical systems of your home were designed for normal usage, placing unreasonable demands upon them will present problems. Plugging several electrical devices into one circuit may cause it to overload. Loading materials into a drain may cause it to clog. Undue weight should not be placed on pipes or showerheads because they can break. Some devices must be cleaned periodically (e.g., furnace filters so that they can do what they were designed to do. 2.6 Wood requires cleaning and sealing to prevent problems associated with water penetration and continual exposure to the elements. Painted or sealed surfaces must be cleaned and refinished according to the requirements of your geographic area. If this is not done, the surface will deteriorate. 2.7 Instructions for care and maintenance are included with many components of your home, including finished flooring, appliances, and air handling equipment. By following these instructions you will extend the life of these components. 2.8 The common areas require the same care and maintenance as your home. Although your homeowner or condo association is responsible for maintenance, all residents should strive to keep these areas clean and usable.
2.1 Your home and lot were designed with a particular drainage pattern, which should carry rainwater away from the foundation. Water should not be directed to the edge of the foundation, either in the form of lot drainage or the watering of flowers. 2.2 Concrete surfaces should be free of salts (for ice), other deicing chemicals, and excessive weight such as a moving van. Yard drainage should be maintained to divert water away from concrete surfaces, if possible, to eliminate the chance it will undermine the surface and erode the bearing soil. 2.3 Structural alterations to the home must be performed by professionals who understand the load-bearing requirements of the change. The reason that local municipalities require permits for building alterations is to make sure that the structural integrity of the home is maintained. 2.4 In many cases, the seal around doors and windows is caulk. This material will require annual inspection and any necessary replacement after one to two years. Water from yard and lawn watering devices should not come in contact with the structure.
9
Powered by FlippingBook