INTRODUCTION

Shook & Waller Builders has developed this information guide to help you properly maintain and operate your new home. We highly recommend that you perform regular maintenance around your home as well as, operate and maintain all of the appliances and equipment according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

There are approximately 2,300 component parts in your home. Although it would be impossible to anticipate and describe all maintenance needed for the care of your home, we have endeavored to provide you with the most critical details.

Shook & Waller Builders provides this information to help you with maintenance. This does not create or imply any warranties regarding any of the components or products discussed, other than those specifically described in the One Year Warranty that covers materials and workmanship.

In addition to this information, you may want to purchase one of the many homeowner maintenance books available at bookstores. Basic knowledge of routine preventive maintenance can save you inconvenience and repair cost. It also maximizes the enjoyment of your home and the long-term value of your investment.

Read all of the manufacturer's literature about the appliances in your home. Much of the information may be familiar to you, however some points may be different from homes you have had in the past. We repeat very little of the manufacturers' information here. For your own protection, please complete and mail in the manufacturer's warranty registration cards as soon as possible.
All building materials expand and contract due to changes in temperature and humidity. This applies to everything in your home, including the concrete. Dissimilar materials expand or contract at different rates. This results in separation between materials, particularly dissimilar ones. You see this in such things as small cracks in the foundation, drywall, and paint. It will show where mouldings meet sheet rock, and mitered corners; where tile grout meets tub or sink, etc. This can be alarming to a new homeowner, however it is very normal - even in the highest quality of construction. Shrinkage of wood members in your home is inevitable and will occur. It will be most noticeable during the first year and typically, it continues into the second year. In most cases, caulking and paint will repair this minor evidence of a very natural phenomenon. Please note that properly installed caulking will shrink and requires periodic replacement.
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