Electrical

The Builder uses a variety of finishes at the exterior of your home. The three main finishes used are stucco, masonry, and wood. These finishes will need constant upkeep and attention on the part of the homeowner to maintain a lasting luster. The exterior of your home is exposed to the elements day in and day out and you, the homebuyer, should prepare to spend a large portion of your maintenance time on the outside perimeters of your home.

Stucco- The stucco on your home has been applied according to Builders’ specifications. The color is a part of the topcoat application of the stucco; it is not paint. Check with local governing agencies before changing the color of your home. Do not apply paint to stucco. Do not power spray the stucco on your home. Do not allow dirt or water to rise above the weep screed in the stucco located at ankle level of your home. The weep screed allows water to exit the exterior walls during rains and exposure to moisture. Do not ever puncture the stucco, as there is a waterproof system in place that must be maintained. You may find a white powdery substance on some of the exterior finishes of your home. This is called efflorescence, which is caused by the evaporation of salt-laden water. This will, in time, wear away and Builder cannot prevent this occurrence. You may find “hairline” cracks on the exterior surface of your home stemming from settling and movement in and around your home site. This is expected at every home by the Builder and is common; this item is not warranted. Builder does not warranty stucco cracks less than 1/8” wide for the period of warranty, one year.

 Masonry- The masonry at the exterior of your home is Cultured Stone or Brick Veneer. The Builder uses different types of stone and brick throughout the neighborhood. Your “New Home Express Limited Warranty” will give you the specific manufacturer information for the stone or brick on your home. Masonry is applied with an exterior grouting compound that may crack after application. This is normal and to be expected. You will want to repair cracks in grouting every three to six months in order to maintain a lasting impression. Material for this job can be purchased at any of your local home improvement centers.

 Wood- The wood trim and siding on your home has been installed according to California Construction Standards and the Builders’ specifications. All of the exterior finishes have been caulked and painted with two coats of paint. All appropriate measures have been taken as well as tests passed for quality installation. Due to the fact that your wood trim and siding is in constant exposure to the elements, Builder suggests a routine six-month examination and maintenance schedule. Homeowner will be responsible for applying caulk and/or paint as needed to protect product from the elements. Wood can split or crack due to its natural drying processes; this can be easily fixed by applying caulk or wood putty and touch up paint. Your Express Limited Warranty will warrant excessive gaps, warping, or bows in wood trim.