Page 85 - KHovanian Homes - Pathway to Homeownership

Section 9 | Home Care & Maintenance • Keep gutters and downspouts free of blockages from leaves or other debris. If gutter seams leak apply a gutter sealant available at hardware stores. • Water infiltration problems caused by improper grade should be immediately corrected by the homeowner. Immediately fill soil depressions that form close to the foundation with dry dirt. Do not change the established drainage pattern when landscaping. Ensure that drainage away from the foundation is definite, yet gradual. • Do not spray the foundation directly with lawn sprinklers. Make certain that hose fittings are firmly secured and not leaking at the hose bib connection. • Do not plant trees and shrubs within five (5) feet of the foundation. Check with a Landscape Contractor or nursery to determine the root characteristics of plantings so that root growth will not undermine the foundation or driveway surfaces. Be aware that new plantings require substantial amounts of water. Also, plants to close to the foundation will place additional moisture against the walls. WINDOWS AND SLIDING DOORS - EXTERIOR The windows in your home are made of double-pane, insulated glass to minimize energy loss, and are framed in aluminum, wood, aluminum-clad wood, or vinyl. Basement windows are constructed with vinyl frames and double-pane glass. The windows and sliding glass doors in your home are energy efficient and easy to care for. It is normal to discover air and dust infiltration in areas around the windows and doors. To keep them in top working order, vacuum the tracks periodically. The tracks can be kept in smooth operating order by lubricating with silicone lubricant sprays. Oil is not recommended because it attracts dust and lint. Maintenance Guidelines • If you intend to use solar film on your windows be aware that installing it on your windows will void any manufacturer warranty. Be sure to hire a reputable company who will warrant its work. • Maintenance on windows can be as simple as keeping dirt and dust out of the tracks. • Make sure that the weep holes on the bottom of the window are clean and free of debris. • All windows and doors can be damaged if you repeatedly slam them. By closing them gently,you will add years of service to them. • Cleaning Window Glass: Clean windows with a commercial glass cleaner or a cup of vinegar mixed with a gallon of warm water. Apply with a sponge or lint-free cloth, then dry and polish with paper towels. A rubber squeegee passed over glass surfaces will speed the drying and eliminate streaking. • Aluminum-Clad Wood Windows: For easy operation, keep the sill and side tracks clean. If the window does not slide easily, spray the channel with silicone or rub the channel with a piece of paraffin. Do not paint vinyl liners or jambs. • Skylights: Periodic inspection by a roofing contractor to repair caulking and check flashings will ensure that the skylight remains weather tight. WINDOWS AND DOORS - SCREENS Every home is provided with window screens, whose purpose is to help prevent insects from coming in- side when the windows are open. For easy cleaning, screens are designed for simple removal from the in- side. Many homeowners remove and store screens for the winter to allow more light into the home. However, use caution: screens perforate easily and the frames bend if not handled with care. Sometimes tabs are provided, but do not put pressure on the tabs at any time or you will pull them out. When removing window screens for the season, label each screen as you remove it. This will pay dividends in the spring. Avoid putting any kind of pressure on the screening itself of either windows or patio doors. They are not designed to carry any pressure and will become baggy, or even pull loose at the edges. Screens may be washed and rinsed using a mild household detergent. SAFETY CAUTION Window screens will not prevent children from falling through open windows to the ground below. The screen is not a barrier, and the fastening system for the screen will not support any weight Edition July 2019 | 67