HOMEOWNER MANUAL...about the buying process, home features, and quality standards. Your Dream...

HOMEBUYER’S RESPONSIBILITIES ..............................1Your New Home Advisor ........................................................................................................................ 1

Following a Predictable Road Map .....................................................................................................2

Financing and Closing Process ...........................................................................................................3

The Design Studio ...................................................................................................................................4

Consistent and Predictable Building Process .................................................................................6

The Construction Process and You ....................................................................................................7

QUADRANT HOMES CONSTRUCTION ........................ 11Codes and Permits ..................................................................................................................................11

Homesite ...................................................................................................................................................11

Foundation and Crawl Space ..............................................................................................................12

Framing .....................................................................................................................................................12

SUGGESTED MOVING PREPARATIONS ..................... 15

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION .......................................... 19

HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION .................................... 21Top 5 FAQs About Homeowners Associations .............................................................................. 21

More Information ................................................................................................................................. 22

HOMEOWNER MANUAL

SECTION 5

SECTION 4

SECTION 3

SECTION 2

SECTION 1

SECTION 6 YOUR NEW QUADRANT HOME .................................. 25Our Commitment to You .................................................................................................................... 25

Warranty ................................................................................................................................................. 25

Customer Care ...................................................................................................................................... 26

Emergency Service.............................................................................................................................. 26

EXTERIOR HOME MAINTENANCE .............................29Landscaping .......................................................................................................................................... 29

Winterization ..........................................................................................................................................32

Exterior Surfaces ..................................................................................................................................33

Exterior Materials ................................................................................................................................ 34

Septic System........................................................................................................................................ 36

Water Conservation ............................................................................................................................. 36

Exterior Seasonal Maintenance Checklist......................................................................................37

INTERIOR HOME MAINTENANCE .............................. 39Interior Walls ......................................................................................................................................... 39

Doors .......................................................................................................................................................40

Windows .................................................................................................................................................. 42

Appliances .............................................................................................................................................. 43

Plumbing................................................................................................................................................. 45

Electrical ................................................................................................................................................. 47

Heating .................................................................................................................................................... 49

Flooring ...................................................................................................................................................50

Tile ............................................................................................................................................................ 52

Cleaning .................................................................................................................................................. 53

Water Conservation ............................................................................................................................. 53

Interior Periodic Maintenance Checklist .......................................................................................54

INDEX ...............................................................................56

SECTION 7

SECTION 8

Congratulations on purchasing your new Quadrant home! Your journey as a Quadrant Homes’ homebuyer will be an exciting adventure, and we’re sure you’ll have many questions. Our goal is to provide you with as many answers as possible, and guide you through every step of the way.

From time to time, we’ll ask how we’re doing. Your candid feedback will make the process the best it can be for everyone involved. After all, we want you to be so delighted with your experience that you will want to refer us to other people in your life.

Your New Home Advisor

NHA Name:

Phone:

Fax:

Email:

Your New Home Advisor (NHA) will be your primary Quadrant Homes contact and will provide answers to your questions.

In the first meeting with your NHA, you should have reviewed several important topics – most of which will be covered in this manual, including: • Buying process and time lines• Our quality standards• Building your home• Selection process and the Design Studio• How your warranty works• The importance of your Homeowner Manual• Our customer survey feedback process• Your Homeowners Association

HOMEBUYER’S RESPONSIBILITIES

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2/2017

NOTE: Our building process does not account for scheduled non-working days. *Some milestones maynot apply to the Designer Home Sales and Construction Process. For up-to-date information on yourhome’s schedule, please contact your New Home Advisor.

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Move In Milestones. The Path to Your New Quadrant Home.

Every journey begins with a single step, or in this case a Purchase & Sales Agreement! Your New Home Advisor (NHA) will help answer questions about the buying process, home features, and quality standards.

Your Dream Begins.

After contract, your loan application must be completed online at tripointeconnect.com within 3 days and loan prequalification must be completed within 5 days.

Complete Loan Approval

It is time to read your Homeowner Manual, which is your trustytravel guide, letting you know what to expect throughout the homebuying journey.

Homeowner Manual Review

The Design Studio Concierge will schedule your selections appointment times and provide helpful tools in preparation for your first visit. Our goalis to help you finalize your home selections within 45 days.

Schedule Design Studio Appointments*

You've made a list and checked it twice, now it is time to complete your order authorizing your final selections. Your Designer will carefully help you review your selections.

Finalize Design Studio Selections*

Quadrant Homes is eager to build a home specifically for you. Your Construction Deposit is an assurance of our agreement so we can proceed with building your home!

Construction Deposits Paid*

Loan Approval? Check. Final Design Studio Selections complete? Check. Construction Deposit and Building Permit received? Check. It's time to pour your home's foundation!

Foundation Walls Poured*

After your home has been released for construction, your NHA will schedule an introductory meeting with your Superintendent. We'll talk safety, selections, building practices and construction schedule.

Homesite Orientation with Superintendent*

Prior to drywall installation, we will walk your home to view the framing, mechanical and electrical systems of your home. We’ll provide the hardhat, you bring a camera to take photos!

Attend Framewalk with Superintendent*

How are we doing? Your home is not complete yet, but we want to know more about your experience to date and how we can make any improvements prior to closing. Keep an eye out for a survey from Eliant.

Receive First Eliant Survey*

Approximately 30 Days prior to closing it's time to finalize your financing. Your lender will need to allow for contingency time so your interest rate lock expiration date works with your remaining construction schedule.

Satisfy All Loan Conditions

Your Superintendent will demonstrate your new home and selections. We will also review operating and maintenance procedures for your home and create a final punchlist before closing.

Attend Homeowner Orientation

No later than 1 week prior to closing, you will receive via email your Closing Disclosure (CD) with the final terms of your mortgage loan.

Review Closing Disclosure

After the escrow company receives your lender's loan documents, the escrow company will contact you to schedule an appointment for signing your final closing documents. How does "Homeowner" sound?

Sign Closing Documents at Escrow

We’ll meet one last time with your Superintendent to review the punchlist items from the Homeowner Orientation and acknowledge that all documented corrections are complete.

Attend Rewalk with Superintendent

Congratulations on your new home! Once your loan has funded and recorded, it's time to get your keys from your New Home Advisor. Welcome home!

Closing Day — Keys Available

Protect your new home by using felt pads or other coverings to prevent scratches to your doors and flooring. Double check- have you set-up, disconnected or transferred all your utilities?

Moving Day!

After closing, Customer Care will check-in to help answer questions as you get settled. After 30 Days, Eliant will provide a survey to share your new home journey. We hope you love your Quadrant Home for many years to come!

Receive Closing Eliant Survey

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Financing and Closing ProcessMoving in to your new Quadrant Home requires that your lender be appropriately involved. The next steps help ensure that when your home is completed and delivered, you will be ready to take ownership.

> Loan ApplicationIf you haven’t already, you must apply for any financing required to purchase your home within five days of signing your purchase and sale agreement. This step ensures enough time is allowed to meet all the criteria necessary to start and close your home. The following checklist will get you started on the documentation you need to provide your lender. Your lender may require items we have not mentioned, but this will get you off to a good start.

Names, addresses, phone numbers and account numbers for all mortgage lenders for the last 2 years

Copies of leases and 2 years of tax returns for any rental property

Market value estimate

REAL ESTATE OWNED

LIQUID ASSETS

Names, account numbers, balances and current monthly payment amounts for all revolving charge cards

Names, addresses, phone numbers and account numbers for all installment debt and approximate balances and monthly payments for such items as mortgages, home equity loans and auto loans

Alimony or child support payments

Names, addresses, phone numbers and account numbers of any accounts recently paid off, if used to establish credit

LIABILITIES

Complete names, addresses, phone numbers and account numbers for all bank, credit union, 401K and investment accounts

Copies of all bank account statements for last 3 months

Copies of any notes receivable

Value of other assets such as auto, household goods and collectibles

Cash value of life insurance policies

Vested interest in retirement funds or IRAs

LOAN APPLICATION CHECKLIST

INCOME

Property Information/Address

Purchase Agreement: Include legal description of property and sale price

Personal Contact Information

Social Security Number and driver’s license for each borrower

Home address for the last 2 years

Divorce decree or separation agreements (if applicable)

Trust Agreement (if applicable)

Power of Attorney (if applicable)

Documentation of current residency status (if you are not a U.S. citizen)

Name, address, and phone number of landlord (if you are not a U.S. citizen)

Most recent pay stubs

Documentation on any supplemental income such as bonuses or commissions

Names, addresses and phone numbers of all employers for last 2 years

W-2s for the last 2 years

If you are self-employed or earn income from commissioned sales, copies of last 2 years of tax returns with all schedules and year-to-date profit and loss for current year, signed by your accountant

Documentation of alimony or child support, if this income is considered for the loan

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> Prequalification and Loan ApprovalQuadrant Homes requires that your lender provide loan approval before we start your home. You should obtain pre-approval from your lender prior to visiting the Design Studio to help you determine what you can afford. Keep in mind your final loan approval will include the home price and your anticipated amount for Design Studio selections.

Your pre-approval may be conditional upon certain requirements being met. You may need to show copies of tax returns, your recent pay stub or explain a late charge on one of your charge accounts. Please take care of meeting all loan conditions as soon as you can.

> Lender AffiliationAlthough we have an affiliation with iMortgage, we will work with any lender of your choice. If you have another lender, you will need to provide your NHA with their contact information. You should instruct your lender to keep your NHA current on your loan process.

> Keeping Your Lender InformedYou need to keep in touch with your lender throughout the process. During the construction of your home we will keep you informed of important milestones your lender will want to know.

> Locking an Interest RateWhile we can approximate when your home will be complete, non-working days and other unforeseen circumstances can delay the schedule. Very often, your interest rate will be tied to an expiration date, so be sure to allow for contingency time.

> Preparing to CloseAs you prepare yourself for closing, it is very important that your financial condition remain the same throughout the entire process, and that you keep your lender informed of any changes. An otherwise smooth home buying experience may become difficult at the last moment if your home is complete and your lender is not ready to close, or if something in your credit profile has changed.

For example, if your lender needs additional documentation from you prior to preparing loan documents, it could create a delay for the escrow company to have your closing documents ready for signing. The escrow company will contact you approximately 30 days prior to closing to introduce themselves and answer any questions you have about signing and closing. After the escrow company receives your lender’s loan documents, they will contact you to schedule an appointment for signing.

> Occupying Your New HomeOn the final work day after the delivery of your home is complete, we will expect you to close the sale. The final steps to closing are recording your loan documents and disbursing the loan funds. After that happens, the community representative will give you the keys to your new home.

The Design StudioQuadrant Homes’ Design Studio is the only one of its kind in the Northwest. We are proud to share this exciting experience with you and look forward to building your dream home! Here are some important things to remember as you begin this part of the journey:

> Visiting the Design StudioThe Design Studio is open by appointment only Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11 am to 8 pm and Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 am to 6 pm. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.For hours, availability, closures, and directions, please visit QuadrantHomes.com.

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Upon mutual acceptance of your purchase and sale agreement, your Design Consultant will contact you to schedule your first appointment, review initial requests and answer any questions you may have. You will receive a packet of information prior to your first visit. Please review this information carefully. Being organized and well prepared for your Design Studio appointment is the key to having a productive and enjoyable session.

Our goal is to deliver your new home in a timely fashion, with the quality and attention to detail you expect. Therefore, all customization and selections must be completed within 45 days of mutual acceptance.

In order to move forward with construction there will come a time when your selections must be finalized. At this time, we ask buyers to verify selections and authorizing them with a signature. However, if you need to make a change after your final visit, as long as your home has not been released for construction, we’ll work with you to complete a Final Change Order (FCO). FCO’s require a special appointment and a fee of $250.

Ultimately our goal is to build your home just as you order it, so it is very important that we work

together and communicate often. Additional changes are no longer possible after your home is released for construction.

Once you have final loan approval and have completed your Design Studio selections we will secure a new home building permit and begin building your new home.

> Homebuyers Who Live Out of StateIt is essential that Quadrant homebuyers finalize their design/product selections in person. If you live out of state, and will only be in Washington for a limited period of time, we promise to do our best to work with your schedule. If for some reason you are unable to attend your Final Appointment, please arrange to have someone represent you in your absence. Your New Home Advisor and Design Consultant will assist you with the necessary paperwork before your representative attends the Final Appointment.

> Non-English Speaking HomebuyersIf you would like to have assistance from an interpreter while at the Design Studio, just let us know. We want your experience at the Design Studio to be hassle-free and enjoyable.

Bellevue Design Studio

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Consistent and Predictable Building ProcessQuadrant Homes uses several construction and production techniques designed to build one of the highest quality homes you can purchase. Our “Even Flow” scheduling system is one such industry-leading technique.

Even Flow means we keep the rate of home starts, build time and new home completions all at a constant rate. This way, we have a consistent number of homes under construction at all times.

The result is a shorter than average cycle-time to build your home and a predictable process for when your home is delivered. The efficiency, reliability and quality this system offers is one of the ways we are able to deliver the the best homes in the best locations.

It is important that you have a basic understanding of our process so you know what to expect during construction and as you plan ahead for moving day.

Understanding our construction process helps you understand just how different we are from other builders, and why our disciplined and structured approach to construction adds to the value of a Quadrant Home.

> Starting a HouseYour new home will be released to start after we receive your loan approval, final selections from the Design Studio, construction payment, building permit, and install your home’s foundation (in that order).

Typically houses are released to start in your community on a first-in, first-out basis. Remember there are several communities going through this same process, so release dates are dependent on how many houses are waiting in the queue to be released. Your NHA can give you an idea of how many houses are ready to be released to start in your community at any time.

When your home is released, it will be given a start number. Construction will begin 10 working days following the release date. Day 1 is the Start of Framing. From there, progress on each of the houses under construction is reported daily as we complete and deliver your home.

> Working Days and Non-Working DaysThe construction schedule has been carefully selected to meet the needs of your floor plan. However, once you receive your construction schedule that doesn’t mean that counting each calendar day from the start of the framing process accurately predicts your move in date—and here’s why:• Day 1 is when the lumber is delivered to your

homesite and framing begins. • “Working Days” are Monday through Friday. • Twelve recognized holidays will fall on a weekday. • Approximately 20 “Non-Work Days” may be used

during the year to correct potential delays.

Counting working days forward on the calendar, excluding weekends and holidays, is a great start to narrowing in on the completion date of your home, however…the orchestration of the construction process by nature is a bit unpredictable. Weather-related delays, safety concerns and logistical

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The Construction Process and You> SafetySafety is a top priority for Quadrant Homes, our vendors and our homebuyers. While we are building your home, we have all the responsibility and liability for maintaining a safe work environment. For everyone’s benefit, our safety rules are firm.

We do not permit unauthorized access to the construction areas, and all houses are considered “under construction” prior to delivery. It is possible to visit your home at times if you make arrangements ahead of time, and your NHA or Superintendent accompanies you. You must, however, observe all safety policies—including wearing a hard hat, protective eye wear and hard–toe shoes. We ask that you do not bring children on these visits because of the hazards associated with construction.

We understand that you are very interested in the construction of your home, and have arranged 4 meetings with your Superintendent to review progress, and explain what’s going on along the way. Your NHA will coordinate those meetings with you and explain each step in more detail.

factors all have an impact on scheduled tasks. Knowing this, we’ve already planned to use weekends and holidays, when possible, to recover from tasks that may have been delayed days prior. Expect on occasion to see trades people working on your home during those “off-days.”

Additionally, due to our decades of experience, we also anticipate approximately 20 times per year our production system will need a “catch-up” day during the week—we call these “Non-Work Days.” Think of it as our shutting down an assembly line while certain tasks are brought back on track.

Each Non-Work Day will add another calendar day to your construction schedule and typically, you’ll experience three to five Non-Work Days during the construction of your home. Severe weather conditions, unforeseen supply shortages and even safety inspections that are beyond our control are the most common causes of a Non-Work Day. For this reason you shouldn’t commit to moving dates without taking these into consideration.*

Rest assured, however, you will receive a same-day phone call from your Commany Sales Manager any time a Non-Work Day is called. So go ahead, count off those working days, and remember to count on the fact that we will call you each time we use a Non-Work Day so that you are immediately updated on the progress of your home.

*In most situations, any house close to closing will not be affected by a

Non-Work Day

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> Your First Meeting – The Pre-ConstructionOrientationThis meeting is scheduled after your home has been released for construction. Your NHA will schedule this meeting, and will introduce you to the Superintendent. The meeting will last approximately one hour and is typically held at the sales office. Please bring your Design Studio selection information and this Homeowner Manual. The Superintendent will answer any questions you have and discuss the following:• Quadrant Homes Safety Policy for Homeowners• Your selections from the Design Studio (including

exterior options)• How we “place” the foundation on the homesite • Homeowner responsibility for final grading

conditions• Our schedule system and the impact of Non-

Working Days

> Your Second Meeting – The Frame Walk Orientation

This meeting is scheduled prior to drywall, when the framing is complete and the mechanical and electrical systems and features are still visible. The meeting usually occurs around Working Day 20, and will last approximately one hour. Some of the topics that will be covered are:• Types of framing materials used and why• Review of selections and features installed to date

(electrical/mechanical)• Performance and maintenance characteristics of

features installed to date• Review of construction schedule

> Your Third Meeting – The Homeowner Orientation Meeting

This meeting occurs when your home is complete. Before you can close escrow and take occupancy, we still need to “deliver” your home. We want you to be in the very best position to know how to operate your home and care for it. Inviting friends and family members during your orientation would be a distraction from this important goal. This final step in the process of building your home typically lasts two hours but may take up to three hours. We will:• Demonstrate that the home and your selections

are complete

• Demonstrate operating and maintenance procedures for the features and systems in your home

• Review consumer warranty access and Quadrant’s Warranty Service process

> Your Fourth and Final Meeting – The Acceptance Review

If the Superintendent noted any repair items during your orientation, they will be corrected before occupancy. During the Aceptance Review, you will be asked to acknowledge such corrections. Provided your loan has been funded, you may then take occupancy of your home.

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Notes

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Notes

QUADRANT HOMESCONSTRUCTION

In the previous pages, we outlined your responsibilities as a Quadrant Homes homebuyer. The following chapter will give you an overview of some of the products and principles used to carefully craft your Quadrant Home.

Quadrant Homes operates on a centralized schedule, called a stringline schedule, allotting a fixed number of working days for home-building tasks. Construction proceeds at an even-flow rate, which allows our vendors to manage their resources effectively, giving them consistent volumes to control. This consistency and predictability leads to simple, efficient houses and processes. Our stringline schedule is how Quadrant Homes consistently and predictably builds affordable high-quality homes. For more information on our construction practices, visit www.quadranthomes.com.

Codes and Permits> Building CodeOne of the amazing things about American homes is that the vast majority are built using completely standardized building practices. One reason for this consistency is jurisdictional building codes.

While zoning codes deal with your property and the relationship of your building to the neighborhood, building codes deal with the building itself. These codes establish, by law, the minimum acceptable standards for construction, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems. They are designed to safeguard health and safety in every building, and are firmly adhered to when we are building your new home. Prior to delivery your home will be inspected by the local jurisdiction to ensure all building codes are followed.

Your NHA or Superintendent will be happy to explain any code item that applies to your home you might not understand.

> Building PermitA building permit is required for any new construction. Additional sub-permits are also required for utilities, plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical work.

In order to approve your building permit application, the plan checker or building inspector needs to have a clear picture of your home. Quadrant Homes creates a detailed set of plans for each home we build. Because Quadrant Homes builds in many communities throughout the Northwest, plans are reviewed by building departments in many Washington jurisdictions. Our permitting department works closely with the design and production departments as well the jurisdictions to obtain your permit as quickly as possible.

> Quadrant Homes QualityTo ensure the quality of the product we deliver to you, our Customer Care will inspect your home during the construction process. The inspections performed by your Personal Service Representative (PSR) are in addition to the required inspections performed by the building department, Superintendent and vendors involved in the construction of your home.

HomesiteYour homesite is inspected for quality at a very early stage. Before your home is released, our permitting department “sites” the footprint of the house on the lot. This gives a general outline of where the footing— the concrete “platform” that the foundation sits on and where the weight of the house is distributed into the soil—should be poured. Once the footings are placed, pending weather, the foundation can be poured.

QUADRANT HOMESCONSTRUCTION

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Foundation and Crawl SpaceLocated below the main floor system, the crawl space does a number of things for the home. It elevates the house off of the ground (especially important in damp areas) and accommodates variations in the topography of the site. Electrical wiring and plumbing run through the crawl space, making them easier to service.

The concrete foundation wall forms the perimeter of the crawl space. The foundation carries the weight of the structure and its occupants, and at the same time, holds the wood frame structure of the home to the ground in case of heavy winds or earthquakes.

Within the concrete foundation wall is reinforcing steel. This reinforcement is what enhances the concrete’s strength. Concrete is very good in compression and steel allows for tension strength.

Concrete girder pier “pads” designed and engineered in the crawl space are there to support the posts and beams in the crawl space. These beams in turn support the structure of the main floor.

Under-floor areas, such as the crawl space, are ventilated by openings in the exterior foundation walls. These openings are specifically located to provide cross ventilation and are screened with mesh.

Additionally, in order to keep water out, perforated pipe and gravel are used in a trench around the crawl space to route water away fromthe foundation. The drainage system also handles water that might get into the crawl space. That’s why we slope and trench inside to allow for water to escape. The pipes and gravel are then backfilled with dirt that slopes away from the house to drain.

Framing> I-JoistsI-joists are engineered wood systems that support the main floor. I-Joists are designed to be straighter, stiffer, stronger and more consistent in performance than solid sawn lumber joists. The wood used is re-engineered in a sophisticated manufacturing process to produce a product that outperforms traditional lumber.

On top of the I-joists is oriented strand board (OSB) floor decking. The flooring edges are tongue and groove joints.

The floor framing is connected with bolts from the foundation to the sill plate. The I-joists and rim joists are then nailed to the sill plate, and in turn, the OSB floor decking is nailed to the joists and rim joists.

In addition, there is a variety of steel hardware designed to connect the framing to the foundation. The engineer specifies this hardware (such as foundation straps) to suit the design of the house.

> Wall FramingUsing OSB wall sheathing adds rigidity—you may have seen diagonal pieces used at the corners of older homes (built before plywood and OSB were widely available). The OSB does the same thing, but it provides much more strength.

> Building WrapWhen walls are built, they are covered in a building wrap as a standard construction practice. Building wrap serves as a windbreaker that is wrapped over the sheathing and under the exterior siding. It is then cut out around windows and doors. The building then resists water intrusion, and thus makes for a more comfortable, energy-efficient home.

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> Floor TrussesThe upper floor is built with floor trusses. We use floor trusses because they provide longer, stronger clear spans and greater design flexibility in locating bearing walls and partitions on the main floor. Because the floor truss system can be spaced farther apart, fewer are needed. They can be built to exact lengths in the shop and delivered to the job site ready for installation. The lightweight, rigid floor trusses go up easily and quickly, often without the use of a crane.

> Roof TrussesOur homes use roof trusses for the roof framing. Trusses are pre-fabricated, triangulated wooden structures used to support the roof and have a number of significant advantages, such as strength, efficiency and flexibility to span longer distances.

Roof trusses come in several standard configurations: “W” truss, “M” truss or “scissor” truss. Each performs a different task. “Gable” trusses are used at the ends of the roof (the outermost trusses on either end). The vertical pieces are 16 inches on center so that siding can be nailed to them. The trusses are attached to the walls with small metal plates.

gussetplate

bottom chord

top chordwebmember

ROOF TRUSSES - OVERVIEW

Gusset plates can be metal (shown above)or plywood (shown below)

gussetplate

bottom chord

top chord

Once the trusses are up, the roof is covered in roofing OSB, which gives the roof tremendous rigidity.

Once roof sheathing has been completed, it is covered by roofing felt (sometimes referred to as “tar paper” or “building paper”). Roofing felt serves as a waterproof barrier between the sheathing and roofing material. We apply the roofing felt to the clean surface shortly after sheathing is completed to protect it from weather.

Now that you have a basic idea of how your home will be constructed from the ground up, please don’t hesitate to ask any additional questions about Quadrant Homes’ construction processes. Your New Home Advisor will be happy to research any questions you may have and your Superintendant will make every effort to ensure your site visits are as comprehensive and informative as possible.

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SUGGESTED MOVING PREPARATIONS

Roof Trusses

Gutter

2x6 Stud Wall at 24” OC

25/32” Floor Decking

7/16” OSB Wall Sheathing

Floor Trusses

Wall Insulation R-21

5/8” Gypsum Ceiling Board

1/2” Gypsum Wall Board

25/32” Floor Decking

LSL Rimboard

TJI Floor Joists

Floor Insulation R-30

8” Concrete Foundation

16” Contrete Footing

7/16” OSB Roof Sheathing

Ceiling Insulation R-3849

SUGGESTED MOVING PREPARATIONS

Before you know it, it will be time to move in to your brand new Quadrant Home! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible.

> Change of Address Notifications

Banks, Credit Unions, Savings and Loans Associations• See if your bank will transfer your account to

a bank in your new location. If not, ask them to provide credit references so you can quickly establish new accounts. If you have items in a safe deposit box, don’t forget to retrieve them.

The Department of Motor Vehicles• Be sure to change the address on your driver’s

license.

Insurance Companies• Check to make sure your insurance companies

and policies reflect your new address (Auto, Health, Life, Disability, etc.).

Magazine and Newspaper Subscriptions• May require up to six weeks notice to change

their mailing list; each publication will have change-of-address forms and instructions.

Post Office• Use their change-of-address cards for forwarding

your first-class mail. There may be a charge for forwarding magazines, etc. This can also be done on line at www.usps.com.

Register to Vote• Anytime you change addresses you need to

re-register to vote. Visit http://wei.secstate.wa.gov/osos to find out how to register in your area once you move.

> Utilities

Phone & Cable• Quadrant Homes wires your home to

accommodate cable service and up to four telephone lines. However, you must contact your phone and/or cable provider to initiate service.

We highly recommend you contact the intended phone and cable service provider

for your new home as soon as you purchase. Educate yourself on the services they provide and the equipment necessary for certain types of network packages. How you intend to bundle your phone and cable service may affect the electrical options you choose in the Design Studio and where phone and cable jacks are located.

Disconnect Services• Notify trash collections, milkman, diaper service,

and any other regular delivery services you subscribe to of your new address.

• Gas, electricity, water, etc., will need advance notice to disconnect their services for your current home on your moving day.

New Accounts

A week before closing, call your new utility companies (water, sewer, electricity, gas, etc.) to Inquire about service transfer or new account set-up. If you are unsure of which utility companies to contact, you can request a Community Utility Listing from your NHA, or by calling Customer Care at 800-338-8733.

> Moving to a Brand New Area?• Obtain medical records from your doctors and

dentists and ask them to recommend new doctors and dentists in your destination area.

• Arrange to obtain all personal records such as school, birth, baptismal, marriage and other important certificates.

• Transfer your bank accounts. You may be able to have your present bank arrange credit references so that you can quickly establish new accounts.

• Arrange for sufficient cash or traveler’s checks to cover expenses, including the moving company, until your new bank account is established. Unless special provisions are made in advance, your driver must be paid for your move before your goods will be unloaded.

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Key Contacts and Information

Contact Name:

Address:

Phone: ( )

Fax:

Email:

Website:

Account #:

Notes:

ELECTRIC COMPANY:

Contact Name:

Address:

Phone: ( )

Fax:

Email:

Website:

Account #:

Notes:

GAS COMPANY:

Contact Name:

Address:

Phone: ( )

Fax:

Email:

Website:

Account #:

Notes:

TELEPHONE COMPANY:

Contact Name:

Address:

Phone: ( )

Fax:

Email:

Website:

Account #:

Notes:

WATER COMPANY:

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Contact Name:

Address:

Phone: ( )

Fax:

Email:

Website:

Account #:

Notes:

GARBAGE COMPANY:

Contact Name:

Address:

Phone: ( )

Fax:

Email:

Website:

Account #:

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INTERNET PROVIDER:

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CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

> Referral ProgramThank you for your purchase and welcome to the Quadrant Homes family!

Our goal is to make your homebuying experience with Quadrant Homes an outstanding one—so good that you will be happy to refer Quadrant Homes to a friend or family member. To us, your referral is the ultimate test of customer loyalty. If that happens, we know we’ve accomplished a job well done. After all, friends and family make the best neighbors!

If you’re interested in referring others to join the Quadrant Homes family, please go online to:

www.quadranthomes.com/home-owners/referral/

> Surveys & FeedbackOur desire to keep in touch with our homebuyers extends throughout the buying process until well after move-in. To stay in touch and help Quadrant Homes continuously improve, we will be asking you how we are doing, many times in many ways. Our sincerest wish is that you let us know how we can improve the homebuyer experience by giving us feedback. In return we promise to listen and pursue your loyalty.

Quadrant Homes surveys our customers at three touch points:

• Mid-Way-Through: Day 20 frame walk orientation

• Shortly-After-Closing: 30 days after closing

• Long-After-Closing: 11 months after closing

Please take a moment to share your thoughts during these survey touch points and let us know how we’re doing. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!

Quadrant HomesLong After Closing Customer Survey

Customer Name: | Builder Name: | Survey Type:EMAIL RESPONSE

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Important Notes

GuildQuality's mission is to help builders and remodelers improve the way they do business. We measure quality and customer satisfaction for building professionals who seek to deliver a consistently superior customer experience.

Quadrant Homes provided us with your contact information, and we do not, under any circumstances disclose that information to anyone.

On behalf of Quadrant Homes, thanks for your feedback. We welcome any comments or questions about GuildQuality or your survey.

GuildQuality Incorporated

(888) 355-9223 Toll Free (404) 355-9225 Fax

[email protected]

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My home design responds to our needs.

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Quadrant Homes addresses and resolves problems effectively.

I am satisfied with the quality of repairs and service provided.

My personal service representative (PSR) treats me in a courteous and respectful manner.

The service technicians who have done repairs in my home have been courteous and respectful.

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The overall appearance of my community is appealing.

I have a clear understanding of how warranty issues are handled.

Overall, my experience with Quadrant Homes has been easier than I expectedit would be.

Sometimes we like to use survey comments for marketing purposes.May we use the comments you've made today?

I would recommend Quadrant Homes to a friend.

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How often do you utilize your community's amenities and what would influence you to use them more often?

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I am receiving a good value for my money.

The New Home Showroom staff was knowledgeable and professional.

Is this your first Quadrant home?

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Important Notes





(888) 355-9223 Toll Free (404) 355-9225 Fax

[email protected]


© 2009 GuildQuality

If you were referred by a Quadrant homeowner, who may we thank for the referral?

How can we improve the New Home Showroom experience for future customers?

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HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION

Notes

Quadrant Homes is committed to establishing vibrant neighborhoods our customers will be happy to call home. Your Homeowners Association assists in the realization of this goal, from community development to build-out and beyond. The following chapter will help answer some basic questions about your Homeowners Association.

Top 5 FAQs About Homeowners Associations1. What are the benefits of having a Homeowners Association?Your Homeowners Association (HOA) maintains the common areas, preserves a consistent look throughout the community, and can enhance the sense of community. An HOA may prevent your neighbors from making changes to their homes and using their property in ways that might negatively impact other homes.

2. What is an HOA?An HOA is an incorporated Washington State non-profit corporation. It owns and is responsible for the maintenance and repair of designated common areas in a subdivision. Members are everyone who owns a home in the community – membership is automatic when you purchase a home.

An HOA is not the same as a city; it does not provide traffic control, police, security, animal control or other municipal services.

3. What do assessments cover?Assessments (sometimes called “dues”) are each home’s share of the annual operating costs of the HOA. Examples of these costs may include (but are not limited to):• Maintenance and repair of common area property• Common area landscaping• Property management fees• Insurance on the common areas

HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION• Water and electricity for the common areas• Contributions to long-term maintenance reserves

In addition to assessments, all new homebuyers pay an initial capital contribution. This set-up fee is separate from advanced assessments. Instead, the initial capital contribution goes into the HOA operating account to pay start-up costs.

4. How does the property improvement process work?Property improvement review is one of the ways your HOA can keep the community looking great, the way it did when you moved in. The HOA may prevent your neighbors from making inappropriate changes to their homes and using their property in ways that might negatively impact other homes.

The process is simple: if you want to make changes to the exterior of your home, just fill out a property improvement application and send it to the HOA. Applications are available on the HOA website and from the community association manager. You should receive an answer, and some guidance about how to make sure the project is a benefit to the community, within 30 days, usually sooner. Many Quadrant Homes communities have an online Property Improvement Handbook to help you make choices about improving the exterior of your home and your yard.

5. Where can I learn more about my HOA?• Your NHA has business cards or contact cards

for your community association manager. Feel free to call or e-mail the community association manager at any time, even before closing.

• Check out your HOA website. It should have links to the rules, covenants or CC&Rs, bylaws, assessment payment information, property improvement information, and the community association manager’s contact information.

• Within a few weeks after you move in to your home, you’ll receive a welcome packet from your HOA with more information.

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More Information> Legal Basis of HOAsAll HOAs are created by Covenants or CC&Rs. They are recorded on the title to every piece of property in a community; therefore, they are legally binding upon the entire community. CC&Rs grant the HOA and the HOA board legal authority and are the source of restrictions that apply to all members.

Other governing documents include the Bylaws, Articles of Incorporation, Community Rules, Property Improvement Handbook, and Board Policies. These documents may not conflict with the CC&Rs, but add helpful guidance to homeowners.

> Role of the DeclarantThe Declarant is usually the developer. It is a corporation that owns the land being developed in a community. The Declarant—sometimes Quadrant Homes—is responsible for managing the HOA during the development phase. As the initial owner of all property in the subdivision, the Declarant at first holds all voting rights in the HOA and appoints the first Board of Directors.

> Transition to Owner ControlThe HOA is turned over to the homeowners after the developer is done developing, selling, and building the community. After that period, a meeting is held when homeowners vote to elect members of the community to the board of directors. That meeting is called the “transition,” and marks the transfer of full control to homeowners.

HOAs are governed by a board of directors. After transition, the board is elected by, and composed of, homeowners. The board hires and supervises the community association management firm, which is responsible for the day-to-day management of most HOAs.

> Homeowner ParticipationAn HOA is the way by which homeowners may maintain the pleasant, desirable lifestyle envisioned when they purchased a home in a Quadrant community. After transition, HOAs are wholly run by homeowners who volunteer to serve their community.

> What are the Common AreasMembership also gives you the right to use and enjoy the common areas owned by the HOA. Examples of common areas may include parks, trails, mailboxes, detention ponds, play structures, sport courts, etc. In some communities, local jurisdictions or third parties may own what seem to be common areas. Check the recorded plat map or call the community association manager to find out what your HOA owns.

> What Uses are Restricted?To preserve consistency and make living in your community more pleasant, the CC&Rs include a list of uses that are prohibited or restricted in that community. Every HOA has its own unique list, so check the CC&R’s. Examples of common use restrictions include limits on breeding animals, nuisances, and parking oversized vehicles.

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Most Quadrant—controlled HOAs also have use restrictions that—among other things—prohibit the following:• Businesses—homes are intended for residential

use only• Signs• RV, trailer, and commercial vehicle parking

> Property ManagerMost Quadrant Homes are built in communities that hire professional community association managers to run the HOA.

Typical responsibilities of community association managers are to:• Be the single point of contact for all HOA issues• Maintain common areas by overseeing landscape

and maintenance vendors• Manage the HOA finances—bill payment and

assessment collection• Send violation notices when complaints are

received• Provide escrow and lender information

In many HOAs the manager is not on site, so homeowners must report issues by telephone, email, or online.

> Resources for More Information• Your CC&Rs and Community Rules• Your homeowner website• Your Community Association Manager• Community Association Institute at caionline.org

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Notes

YOUR NEW QUADRANT HOME

Quadrant Homes takes great pride in the homes we build. Your new home is constructed with quality, energy-efficient materials and installed by trusted vendor partners under careful supervision. We stand by the quality standards used to deliver your home, and that shows in our commitment to warranty service.

We are highly confident in the standards used to build your home. It is important to remember that a new home is built from thousands of components; involves hundreds of design choices; relies on dozens of human hands, and takes months to complete. If an error occurs, our new home warranty is our promise to you that we’ll stand behind our workmanship.

> Our Commitment to YouWhen purchasing a Quadrant Home, the homeowner and builder, Quadrant Homes, agree to be bound by the terms of the Home Builder’s Limited Warranty (HBLW).

Quadrant Homes is the warrantor throughout the1-Year Customer Service Program, the 6-Year Home Builder’s Limited Warranty and the 10-Year Extended Defined Structural Element Coverage. All requests for warranty performance must come to Quadrant Homes per the “Contact Us” procedures outlined in this chapter.

• All of our decisions will be guided by the Home Builder’s Limited Warranty (HBLW) PWSC (Form No. 117 Rev. 01/2007) and Quadrant Homes Performance Standards and Guidelines (Form No. STND117 11/14)

• Your request will be assigned to a dedicated Personal Service Representative (PSR)

• Repair Appointment Availability is Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 3:30pm

• 24-hour emergency service

YOUR NEW QUADRANT HOME> The Homebuilder’s Limited Warranty: Quadrant Peformance Standards and GuidelinesDuring the sales process you will receive and acknowledge (via a signed receipt) that you have received a copy of the HBLW (hard copy or a flash drive) which provides detailed information about the warranty coverage on your new home. You will also receive a copy of the Performance Standards and Guidelines (hard copy or a flash drive) that outlines the 1-Year Customer Service Program, the 6-Year Home Builder’s Limited Warranty and the 10-Year Extended Defined Structural Element Coverage.

Approximately one month following the close of escrow, you will receive your official copy of the HBLW and the Limited Warranty Validation Form indicating the warranty period on your home from Professional Warranty Service Corporation (PWSC), the warranty administrator. It is very important that you read and understand the performance standards, exclusions, and Warranty Obligations required of the builder, Quadrant Homes, as well as what is required of you, the homeowner.

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Under the Home Builder’s Limited Warranty (HBLW), we warrant that during the warranty period, starting at close of escrow that your home will be free of Construction Defects. The definitions of a Construction Defect under the HBLW are as follows:

• Defective per the 1-Year Customer Service Program, the 6-Year Home Builder’s Limited Warranty, the 10-Year Extended Defined Structural Element Coverage and;

• Materially affects the structural integrity of the home or common elements; or

• Has an obvious and material negative impact on the appearance of the home or common elements; or

• Jeopardizes the life or safety of the occupants of the home or the users of the common elements; or

• Results in the inability of the home or a common element to provide the functions that can reasonably be expected in such a home or common element.

If a condition is not included in the Performance Standards and Guidelines, the Residential Construction Performance Guidelines published by the National Association of Home Builders (in effect at the time of construction) shall apply.

If no specific standard, tolerance or guideline is contained in any of the documents mentioned above, generally accepted local building practices and standards will apply.

> Remedy Under The HBLWTypically once a Construction Defect is identified, Quadrant Homes and its vendor partners will conduct repairs at no cost to you. However as the builder, Quadrant Homes may also; 1) Pay you the actual amount it would cost us to repair or replace the Construction Defect, or 2) Pay you an amount equal to the diminution of fair market value caused by the uncorrected Construction Defect. The decision to repair, replace or to make payment in lieu of repair or replacement is at the builder’s sole discretion. Prior authorization by Quadrant Homes is required to receive reimbursement in lieu of repair.

> Manufacturer WarrantyLaw requires that product manufacturer warranties be passed from the builder to the homeowner. You can find copies of manufacturer’s warranties in the Home Warranty section at QuadrantHomes.com. If you have any questions or need assistance please contact Customer Care at 800-338-8733.

The Home Builder’s Limited Warranty is separate from and excludes coverage for consumer products typically covered by a manufacturer’s warranty.

> Contact UsWarranty Service Requests are coordinated through the Customer Care. We want to make sure that your request is recorded and resolved as quickly as possible. To provide you with the best service, all warranty service requests must be submitted in writing one of the following ways:

Warranty Service Web Portal: By logging in to your online account, you can confirm receipt of your request, keep a history of previous Warranty Service Requests, as well as check the status of repairs. You will receive an e-mail or letter with your portal login information shortly after closing. To access the portal, go to the Home Warranty section at QuadrantHomes.com.

• E-mail your request directly to [email protected]

• Mail your request to Quadrant Homes Customer Care, 15900 SE Eastgate Way, Suite 300, Bellevue, WA 98006

Have a question? Contact Customer Care at 800-338-8733.

> Emergency ServiceThe following situations are considered warrantable emergencies requiring 24-hour service:

• Plumbing: Total stoppage of the plumbing/sewer system Active plumbing leak requiring main water shut-off

• Heating: Total loss of heat Total loss of hot water

• Electrical: Total loss of power (not due to a community power outage)

• Roof Leak: Active roof leak (weather may delay repairs for safety)

> Emergency Contact:• During business hours: 800-338-8733• After hours, weekends or holidays:

425-455-2900

Your after-hours call will be picked up by an answering service and directed to the on-call Personal Service Representative (PSR). It is our

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goal to respond within 24 hours. Repairs most often will be scheduled for the start of the following business day. If we receive a call outside normal business hours for a non-emergency, you will be directed to leave a message and your call will be returned the next business day.

In rare cases where we are unable to supply a vendor within a reasonable time period, the on-call service representative may instruct you to contact a qualified vendor of your choice. With prior authorization, homeowners will later be reimbursed for the cost of this service visit. Unauthorized vendor expenses are not reimbursable.

Remember:• Call 911 for a life-threatening emergency.• Call the gas utility for a gas leak. Refer to your

utility billing statement for contact information. Some common providers are: Puget Sound Energy – 888-225-5773 Cascade Natural Gas – 888-522-1130

• Call the water utility for total stoppage of the community water supply or a leak coming from the street side of your water meter.

The following may be covered under warranty but are non-emergencies:• Automatic garage door opener not functioning• Relighting pilot lights for gas appliances or

fireplaces • Dripping sink faucet • Leak at drain under sink or lavatories • Lights or electrical outlets partially out • Toilet stoppages, or overflows due to use • Household appliance not working • Telephone or television cable jacks not working• Valves and switches that are tampered with or

not properly set

Please refer to your Homeowner’s Manual for more information on what is or is not covered under warranty, further definitions of emergency situations and care and maintenance recommendations.

Customer Care

Mon – Fri, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm: 800-338-8733 After hours, weekends, holidays: 425-455-2900

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

It is important to remember the difference between homeowner maintenance (which is your responsibility), and warranty service (which is Quadrant Homes’ responsibility). As a rule of thumb, remember that any damage or defect caused by neglect, abnormal use, or improper maintenance will not be covered by Quadrant Homes.

Here are some examples of the top five homeowner maintenance responsibilities.

1. Paint Touch-up: A paint touch-up kit will be provided for touch-ups needed after closing, or for use in seasonal maintenance.

2. Caulking: All caulking deteriorates and requires maintenance, especially in “wet rooms” like kitchens and bathrooms. Caulking touch-ups are homeowner maintenance.

3. Cosmetic Damage: Please remember to carefully note cosmetic damage such as scratches, nicks, chips and stains to the Superintendent during orientation. Cosmetic damage reported after closing is considered homeowner maintenance.

4. Landscaping: Newly installed landscaping needs regular watering to establish healthy roots. Landscaping that dies due to lack of maintenance will not be replaced. However, there is a 30-day warranty covering death due to transplant shock.

5. Appliances: Whirlpool and Kitchen Aid appliances carry a manufacturer’s warranty through the Whirlpool Corporation. By law, Quadrant Homes is required to turn over the warranty on all major appliances to the manufacturer after closing. Contact Whirlpool/Kitchen Aid at 866-233-8547 Ext. 2666, or GE at 800-GE-CARES. Please have your appliance’s model and serial number available for the call.

Remember, all homes require care and maintenance from day one. Care and maintenance guidelines are more specifically outlined in the Interior & Exterior Maintenance Sections of the Homeowner Manual.

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Notes

EXTERIOR HOME MAINTENANCE

By caring for your new home and grounds carefully, you will ensure many years of enjoyment. Each and every homeowner’s attention to exterior maintenance contributes significantly to the overall look and desirability of your new community.

In the following chapter, some items discussed apply to your home but others do not. For example, you may or may not have a septic system, but every home has exterior water faucets. Please disregard those items that obviously do not apply to your home.

Landscaping> Trees & ShrubsThe first year is a crucial time for newly transplanted trees and plants, so they require regular homeowner maintenance.

Maintenance Tip: Landscaping carries a 30-day warranty to cover transplant shock. To

help your plants thrive, take care to water them thoroughly and deeply. It may be necessary to water daily during warm, dry months.

Water new plants thoroughly and frequently in the absence of rain. Roots develop and grow with water, air and nutrients. Light, shallow watering keeps roots shallow and exposes plants to damage in hot weather.

If you choose to add plants or shrubs to your yard, use local resources to research and determine the best plants for your geographical area and yard’s sun exposure. Proper planning will pay off in the long run and ensure the plants you purchase thrive.

Keep in mind that if your homesite has a street tree, you are responsible for its watering and feeding, as well as care and maintenance.

EXTERIOR HOME MAINTENANCE> Fertilizing Trees & ShrubsFeed plants twice a year, in March and November, with the appropriate fertilizer. The fertilization needs of a plant will vary according to species, soil type, pH, amount of rain, etc. Read directions thoroughly and determine your plant’s needs once established. If a tree is healthy and vigorous, it may only need to be fertilized every other year. A 3-1-1 (nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium) ratio fertilizer is recommended. The best time to fertilize is early spring, but you can also fertilize in late fall and winter.

> Watering New SodNew sod should be kept moist at all times during the first two weeks. On a hot summer day, it may be necessary to water 3-4 times a day for 15-30 minutes each time; on a cool dry day, 1-2 times for 15-30 minutes is recommended. In hot weather new lawns need water all the time. For new sod it may be necessary to water in the hot sun or in the evening when typical watering is not recommended. You can alter this watering schedule with rain, as watering may not be necessary. After the first two weeks, sod should be watered every one or two days during warm, dry months.

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Here are some tips to make the most of your watering: • Water during daylight hours. Morning is the best

time because cool morning air will help prevent water from evaporating. Avoid late evening watering, as wet or damp lawns at night are more susceptible to fungus and disease problems.

• Sandy soils dry quickly and need water more frequently. Clay soils dry slower but need more water to penetrate to the desired depth. With clay soils, it may be necessary to water in intervals to avoid wasteful runoff.

• Avoid deep saturation or puddling of water by the foundation. Point sprinklers away from the walls of the house.

An established lawn needs approximately 1 inch of water per week. To test your lawn’s absorption rate, place a number of shallow containers at regular intervals running out from the sprinkler. Turn on the water and note how long it takes to fill the containers 1 inch. When you know how long it takes your sprinkler to discharge 1 inch of water, multiply by the number of inches you want. The result equals the sprinkler’s run time.

> Fertilizing LawnsTo keep new sod green and beautiful, you need to fertilize on a regular basis. Fertilizing not only helps grass grow, but it also helps prevent disease and weed problems. The thicker and healthier your grass, the less room there is for weeds.

The three major elements of a complete fertilizer are nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus:• Nitrogen – The primary element most needed

by your lawn. It promotes root and blade growth and makes the grass a healthy green; lawns grow more slowly and become yellowish without enough nitrogen.

• Potassium – It is the second most important element. It strengthens the grass and helps it withstand stress associated with foot traffic and periods of drought.

• Phosphorus – It helps the early formation and growth of roots. New lawns require more phosphorus than established lawns, which need very little.

The series of numbers on a fertilizer bag represents the percentage, by weight, of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the bag. A ratio of 16-4-8 represents 16 percent nitrogen, 4 percent phosphorus, 8 percent potassium and is recommended for established lawns. For new lawns consider using a Triple 16 (16-16-16) ratio and then switch to a 4-1-2 ratio.

Fertilizers with a ratio of 3-1-2 in their formulas are also suitable for northwest lawns. Lawns should be fertilized every 6-8 weeks from February through November. An application of lime each year in November helps balance the acidity prevalent in northwest soils. It is strongly recommended not to use harsh weed or moss killers on your new lawn for a period of one year as they can kill new grass. Be careful with iron fertilizers as they can stain concrete.

Green Living Tip: Organic and slow-release fertilizers activate more slowly and are less

likely to leach into streams and rivers. For best results, fertilize in September and May.

> Overseeding and AeratingSometimes thatch, a layer of dead grass stems, can build up on lawns. If you have more than a 1/2-inch layer of thatch, it’s time to rent a de-thatcher and make several passes over the lawn with it.

February/March > Early Spring Feed (with iron for moss and red thread control)

April or June > Late Spring Feed

August > Summer Feed

September/October > Early Fall Feed (with iron for moss and red thread control)

November > Winterizer (at half recommended rate or setting on spreader)

*Lime lawn in fall with Dolomite or in spring with pelleted lime.

FERTILIZING SCHEDULE

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Compacted soil may also need to be aerated (by poking lots of holes in it). You can also rent a power aerator or hire a professional to do it for you. Make sure your aerated soil is moist, and rake or mow to break up the cores caused by aerating. Leftover soil helps to decompose excess thatch in your lawn.

Once you have aerated and/or de-thatched, overseeding will help bring your lawn back. Use a perennial rye/fine fescue mix of grass seed specifically designed for our northwest environment. Your local nursery or the Washington State University Cooperative Extension can help you choose the best grass blend. May and September are the best times to aerate, de-thatch and overseed.

> Mowing TipsA lawn that is mowed frequently and correctly resists weeds, insects, and disease and appears lush and healthy. A lawn mowed infrequently removes too many grass blades at one time and may result in a lawn that looks thin and uneven.

Maintenance Tip: New sod should NOT be mowed until well rooted. A lawn may take

up to 2 weeks to root sufficiently for mowing, and up to 10 weeks during dormant periods. Walking on a wet lawn can leave footprints that will not go away.

For Best Results:• Mow high and mow often. Setting your mowing

height between 2 and 2 1/2 inches ensures better root development and crowds out weeds. Mowing once a week during the spring and early summer saves time and is less stressful on grass.

• Try not to cut wet grass. It’s easier to mow and better for your lawn to keep the blade sharp and mow when it’s dry. Wet grass blades don’t stand up straight and can cause an uneven cut. Mowing a wet lawn can also lead to soil compaction.

• Practice “grass-cycling.” Your lawn provides you with more than one-third of its own fertilizer. By leaving grass clippings on the lawn to fertilize it, you help it grow greener and denser. This method will not cause thatch buildup. Use a mulching mower or push mower for best results.

• Alternate mowing patterns. Mowing the same direction can cause wear patterns and also lead to soil compaction.

> Pest & Weed ControlFor information on insect or weed control we recommend that you rely on your County

Agricultural Extension Agent or the maintenance vendor of your choice. You might also consider green alternatives to traditional herbicides and pesticides. Please be aware, pest control is not covered under warranty.

Green Living Tips: Find non-toxic answers to minimizing harmful insects. When you

use pesticides to rid your garden of “bad” bugs, you kill the “good” bugs, too. These harmful chemicals run off down our storm drains and into our lakes and streams. • Identify insects that are beneficial to your

garden. You can use these insects in place of pesticides to help rid your garden of harmful insects. For example, ladybugs eat aphid larvae.

• If you don’t feel you have enough beneficial insects in your garden, you can buy these natural predators from garden stores. Nature also gives us these little gardeners free of charge—so take advantage of the free labor.

> Drainage & GradingYour home site has been carefully graded to allow surface water to drain away from the foundation. Swales have been provided where necessary along property lines or in locations where natural drainage crossed your property before construction.

Maintenance Tip: Changes in grade will invalidate your Limited Warranty. Be sure

changes you make do not alter established grade and swales. Drainage swales can also be changed by erosion if you do not promptly install landscaping.

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It is important that you finish your rear yard landscaping within six months to one year. (Please check with your HOA for community-specific requirements.) Installing landscaping solidifies soil, reduces water runoff and erosion. If you do not install landscaping right away, you are still responsible for correcting the effects of erosion on the grading of your homesite.

Here are some helpful drainage tips:• Be sure to maintain the proper drainage slope

away from the house.• Normal settling may occur around the house

and in utility ditches. Fill depressions with dirt, keeping the fill below the top of the foundation, and at least 6” away from siding to prevent water penetration or wood decay.

• Maintain swales. Sometimes swales are accidentally filled in by homeowners or become filled by soil erosion. If that happens, please clear them out. Every homeowner is responsible to correct the effects of natural erosion and maintain their homesite grading plan.

• Avoid unequal soil expansion by watering evenly throughout the yard and avoiding water traps from additional concrete walks, patios, or flower bed edging.

• Catch basin inlet grates should be kept free of debris and sediment. Plugged inlets cause flooding and erosion. Missing, loose or broken catch basin inlet grates need to be reset or replaced.

• Buried drain pipes should be checked periodically and, if obstructed, cleared.

Typically, every homesite will see traveling water from site-to-site. For this reason, carefully consider how the features you add may affect yard drainage. It is very important that you do not stop or change the flow of surface water when landscaping, or constructing exterior features such as patios, decorative walls, etc.

Caution: It is your responsibility to obtain Homeowners Association approval prior to starting work on any exterior improvement projects. Without approval you risk having to remove improvements later on. If you plan to dig utilize Call-Before-You-Dig 800-424-5555.

> Retaining WallsWalls installed on your property have been professionally engineered and built according to all required building specifications. Modifications could jeopardize the integrity of the walls, which could lead to their eventual failure. Therefore,

we recommend maintaining these structures as delivered or consulting with a structural engineer about changes.

Winterization> Cold Weather CareThe preparation of your house for winter is an important part of home maintenance. Winter weather can be hard on a home. The following home maintenance tips can help make sure your home is winter-ready.• Gutters: Clean out leaves and debris biannually.

Consider installing mesh guards to keep debris from collecting. Clogged gutters can cause foundation and siding damage if not addressed promptly.

• Roof: Examine shingles and repair any you find broken or curled. Remove moss with commercial zinc-based moss remover.

• Exterior Water Faucets: Drain water from exterior faucets, called “hose bibs,” and pipes. Remove hoses from hose bibs.

• Landscaping Sprinklers: Turn off and blow out sprinkler system pipes.

• Windows/Doors: Leaks around the windows and doors can be a great source of heat loss; check the caulking and putty and replace as needed.

Safety Tip: Remove snow and ice promptly, taking care not to damage concrete. Thin

ice can be topped with calcium chloride, sand or kitty litter for traction. Harsh chemicals are not recommended as they can damage concrete and landscaping.

> Frozen Plumbing ProtectionDuring cold weather, please follow these procedures to help prevent water pipes from freezing:• The thermostat should be set no lower than 65

degrees. • Remove all hoses from outside hose bibs.• If the outside temperature drops below 20

degrees, you should wrap all exterior pipes and hose bibs with some type of insulation. (Foam/cloth tape will suffice.)

• During freezing weather, consider covering vents in the crawl space. Make sure that these temporary covers are removed as soon as the temperature is above freezing.

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Maintenance Tip: If leaving home for an extended period of time during the winter

months, take the precautions listed above and drain ice maker lines.

Exterior Surfaces> Painted SurfacesAll exterior wood materials require repainting periodically and in some areas annually if facing more extreme weather. Exterior paint is particularly subject to fading due to sun and weather. Wood trim boards may pull away from each other and require caulking with a good exterior type caulk before repainting. Caulking gaps helps prevent the possibility of leaks and improves the appearance of your home.

Maintenance Tip: Lighter colors usually require repainting sooner than darker

colors. Make sure the area to be painted is clean of dirt, grease and debris.

Wood trim will develop minor cracks and raised grain as it ages and dries. Much of this aging will occur during the first year. Raised grain can result in peeling paint; however, this is not due to a defect in materials or workmanship. Painting of wood trim and gutters is considered proper homeowner maintenance.

Green Living Tip: Use and dispose of paint properly. When you paint, plan carefully

and buy only what you need. (One gallon of paint will usually cover 300-400 square feet.) If you don’t use it all, consider donating the leftovers. Theatres, non-profit organizations, shelters, friends or neighbors may be able to use extra paint.

> Stained SurfacesCertain wood finishes are intentionally pre-stained rather than painted. Stain provides a protective finish, yet allows a natural grain and weathering process. If you don’t like the weathered look, you may want to restain the material every two to three years. It is relatively simple to apply with either a brush or spray. Moreover, re-staining does not require the skill of repainting.

Varnish applied over stain can protect a stained finish but may crack or peel as a result of weather conditions, especially when exposed to the sun for long periods of time. Varnish may need sanding and resealing several times a year and is part of homeowner maintenance.

> MildewMildew is a fungus spread by windswept microscopic spores. When spores land on a surface, they feed either on the material, or on surface dirt. Mildew spores can lay dormant and thrive in warm, shady locations, such as under eaves, soffits or siding and by bushes, shrubbery and trees. During humid or rainy periods, mildew can collect on any exterior area. To the unaided eye, mildew frequently resembles dirt. Mildew may be black, green, red, purple or gray.

You can keep mildew at bay by keeping the surface of your house clean and free of dirt or other contaminants that provide a food source. Cut back trees and shrubbery from the house. To clean exterior mildew, carefully scrub the affected areas with diluted bleach and cleaning solution.

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Exterior Materials> RoofThe roof on your home will give you years of good service with the proper maintenance. Keep roof and valleys free of debris. Debris can result in possible discoloration and deterioration, which is not covered by your Limited Warranty.

Safety Tip: Serious injury can result from climbing onto the roof. Since most

homeowners do not have proper fall protection, we recommend allowing only a licensed and bonded roofing contractor on your roof.

Leaks are most likely to occur where the roof joins the roof jacks or vent pipes. These areas are protected by metal flashing that prevents water from leaking into the house. The seal at the roof jack (metal flashing where the vent pipes go through the roof) may require inspection and resealing periodically to prevent leaking.

Flashing and shingles should also be periodically inspected for signs of rust or cracking. A roofing contractor may need to periodically replace weather-damaged shingles and repair cracks with flashing cement or compound. Repairs should be completed as soon as the roofing material is dry.

> Gutters & Storm DrainageGutters and downspouts carry water away from the foundation to the storm system. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to keep the gutters, downspouts and tight line drains free of debris. Plugged drain lines can cause the yard to become saturated and dampen the crawl space or basement.

> SidingThe siding materials on your home are a combination of Fiber Cement Siding. These materials will require cleaning to remove any mildew build-up as well as periodic painting and caulking to ensure the materials remain sealed to the elements. Check with the manufacturer recommendations for specific maintenance, but typical suggestions include washing down the exterior surfaces every 6 to 12 months with a garden hose or low pressure water spray to remove dirt and debris. If you elect to utilize a pressure washer, first test the pressure stream on the ground to ensure it is on a low pressure setting and do not direct the water stream up underneath siding panels.

Maintenance Tip: Please be aware that pressure washers on a high pressure setting

can strip paint and/or permanently damage siding and is not recommended.

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> ConcreteAll concrete naturally cracks as it shrinks, dries and cures. Since concrete is placed over soil which can shift, small cracks and minor surface variations are inevitable. In anticipation of normal stress, we have provided for control cracking, where needed, by installing “joints” in the seams. Minor cracks with no significant vertical or horizontal displacement do not require repair or replacement. These types of cracks are not covered under your Limited Warranty.

A good sweeping is recommended to clean exterior concrete. Avoid washing exterior concrete slabs with cold water from an outside faucet when temperatures are high and the sun has been shining on the concrete. Abrupt changes in temperature can damage the surface bond of the concrete. If washing is necessary, do so when temperatures are moderate.

Maintenance Tip: Some chemicals may cause cement surface decay and expose

the stone beneath. Products like potassium chloride, urea, and sodium chloride which can damage concrete and kill vegetation should be avoided whenever possible.

Your driveway, sidewalk, and garage floor can also be damaged by salt solutions applied to public streets during winter months. Salt residue can be picked up on the undercarriage of vehicles and dripped onto the concrete surfaces. This may eventually cause scaling and pitting. Clean surfaces periodically to remove salted water.

For oil spills on concrete, you may try using dishwashing detergent on the spot, brushing

gently and then washing the spot using low water pressure from a garden hose.

> MasonryMasonry is an extremely low-maintenance material; however, periodic inspection is necessary to check for normal settling cracks. Repair cracks according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

To allow for drainage, small weep holes were created at regular intervals at the bottom of masonry walls. These weep holes allow moisture, which accumulates between the interior surface of the masonry and the sheathing material behind the masonry, to escape. These holes must be kept open to allow for proper drainage.

> FramingWood, the most versatile and widely used of all framing materials, was used in building the framework for your home. As a natural material, wood will expand and shrink seasonally. You may see exterior wooden framing members crack and separate. This type of minor cracking is not structural. Some separation is normal and is easily repaired by caulking the gap, and painting over the repair as necessary. Caulking and painting is considered a normal part of homeowner maintenance.

> FencingIt is natural for wood fencing and gates to absorb water, swell, and then dry and shrink. This process will cause nails and other attachments to naturally loosen over time and require occasional re-tightening. Some “curling” and “cupping” of wood is to be expected with exterior fencing as it is exposed regularly to the elements.

In areas where wooden gates and fences are painted or sealed with stain, you must maintain these finishes to prevent deterioration. Many communities have Homeowners Association requirements that require fences to be stained or sealed within a certain time period. Refer to your Homeowners Association for approved community stain colors. If you install your own fence make sure to submit a PIC application and utilize the local Call-Before-You-Dig service at 800-424-5555.

> Plumbing - Exterior FaucetsBecause faucets have moving parts, they will need repairs over time. You can extend the life of your faucets by treating them gently. Avoid turning water on and off forcefully. New houses often have

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dirt or metal in the water lines, which can damage faucet washers. We recommend keeping a supply of various size washers on hand so you can change washers when needed.

Most exterior faucets are “frost-free” meaning the water shut off is not exposed to the exterior elements, but is within the insulated portions of the home, minimizing the potential of the faucet to freeze.

Septic SystemIf your home is not connected to a municipal sewer system, then you have an underground septic tank, which collects water-carried household wastes from the kitchen, bathroom and laundry and partially purifies it. The wastewater then enters the drain field through perforated pipes and flows into the soil.

It is natural for a slight amount of odor to be present in the first year of use. This odor will gradually dissipate as a purifying culture of bacteria is established in your septic system. Because these bacteria are vital to the natural cleansing process of the septic system, avoid putting lye or other caustic materials into sinks, toilets or drains, as they may damage the bacteria culture. Make an effort to use only biodegradable detergents.

There are a few basic guidelines for proper care:• Know where your tank and drain field are. This

will be pointed out during your homeowner orientation. Avoid driving, parking or planting trees in those areas.

• Have the system pumped every two to three years to remove accumulated sludge and scum. Using a garbage disposal unit will significantly increase the amount produced, requiring more frequent pumping.

• Do not flush plastic products, oil, grease, corn husks or similar products, which do not decompose, into your system.

• Practice water conservation; also divert runoff from your drain field to keep an excess of water from overloading your septic system.

Water ConservationClean water is essential for survival and important for our health and economy. All beings and plants need clean water to thrive. Currently, more than 60 percent of our water pollution comes from individual usage—not from industrial waste. It’s

easy to be a part of the solution by incorporating water-safe practices into daily life. • Water smarter, not harder. Water vegetation

only as needed in the coolest parts of the day to avoid excess evaporation and maximize water absorption. Only water established yards 1 inch per week during the hottest months of the year. Otherwise, let rainfall water for you.

• Find grass alternatives for slopes. Using indigenous plants, grasses and ground covers on sloped areas saves water, time and labor. Ecoturf, a mixture of lawn grasses and broad leaf perennials, can create a meadow-like appearance and needs less water than grass.

• Sweep, don’t spray. Sweep down sidewalks and driveways rather than using a hose. Using a broom to clean also keeps foreign debris from entering storm drains.

• Avoid leaks. Promptly repair leaky hose bibs or sprinkler valves. Report utility leaks to your water utility company as soon as possible to avoid water loss.

• Avoid fountains that don’t recycle water. Ornamental fountains are beautiful, but if they don’t recycle water they can be costly and wasteful.

• Wash the car, not the fish. When you wash your car in the driveway, water runoff goes into storm drains affecting rivers, lakes and streams. Consider washing your car at a commercial car wash that filters and reuses water.

• Know the importance of groundwater. Groundwater is rainwater that filters into the ground and is a major source of drinking water. Avoid things that contaminate groundwater like harsh pesticides, fertilizers or dumping of hazardous and toxic materials into storm drains.

• Work with wetlands, not against them. Your wetlands house wildlife and help keep water clean. Using pesticides, herbicides and hazardous chemicals around our homes can affect wetlands. Filling and draining wetlands reduces fish and wildlife populations and increases water pollution.

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Fall Blow out landscaping irrigation Clean gutters & downspouts Clean yard drainage and debris Plant/fertilize Prune trees Check and replace caulking Repair or replace door weather stripping Look for damaged roof shingles

Winter Winterize: Check valves & disconnect hoses Check seals around doors & windows Winterizing fertilizer

Spring Aerate and fertilize lawn Check hose bibs for debris Clean mildew from exterior surfaces

Summer Exterior paint touch-up Caulk columns & siding Water landscaping

EXTERIOR SEASONAL MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

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INTERIOR HOME MAINTENANCE

Notes

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This section has been developed to introduce you to some of the most familiar parts of your new Quadrant Home. The following information, along with the manufacturer maintenance suggestions, help establish basic care and maintenance recommendations for your home. If there is any inconsistency between the information in this manual and the manufacturer instructions, you should always follow the manufacturer’s care and maintenance recommendations.

Most of the items discussed below will apply to your home, but others do not. For example, you may or may not have hardwood flooring or ceramic tile countertops, but every home has a water shut-off valve. Please disregard those items that obviously do not apply to your home.

Interior Walls> DrywallThe interior walls of your new home are constructed of gypsum wallboard or “drywall.” As your new home settles and responds to seasonal changes, drywall will shift, causing nail pops and cracks. You may see this more often around door and window openings where temperature changes are more pronounced and wet rooms like bathrooms which alternate from moist to dry conditions. Rest assured drywall repairs are cosmetic and non-structural.

While it’s nearly impossible to prevent drywall cracking altogether, you may take some basic steps to stabilize environmental conditions in your home and discourage excessive settlement. Try to maintain a consistent temperature throughout, especially during periods of extreme weather. Run fans before and after bathing, showering, cooking and running laundry. Also make sure your whole house fan runs on a consistent basis to circulate air and control moisture.

After the first year of home ownership all drywall repairs are considered homeowner maintenance. Since you will see non-warrantable hairline cracking in the first year and other drywall movement later, it is worthwhile to learn basic drywall repairs.

> Nail Pops “Nail pops” are simply nails coming loose from studs, or joists, pushing dried joint compound ahead of them. The result is a bump or blister in the drywall surface.

To repair a nail pop, remove the protruding nail entirely, then install another drywall screw an inch or two above or below the nail pop, sinking it below the paper surface. Cover area heavily with Spackle or joint compound, let dry, sand smooth, texture and repaint surface.

INTERIOR HOME MAINTENANCE

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> Drywall CrackDrywall cracks are easily repaired in much the same manner as a nail pop. Cut a small “V” joint along the length of the crack about 1/8” deep and 1/8” wide. Fill heavily with Spackle or joint compound, let dry thoroughly, sand smooth, texture and repaint surface. For very small hairline cracks you may be able to simply fill the crack with compound, dry and repaint.

> PaintThe interior walls and ceilings in your home have been painted with latex paint. While some types of eggshell and satin paint are more conducive to cleaning, please DO NOT vigorously scrub the walls in your home, as this could remove both the paint and drywall texture.

Maintenance Tip: You have been provided a paint touch-up paint kit for moving damage

repair or interior wall touch-up due to normal wear and tear over time. Consider keeping your paint cans so you can restock them.

The best time to patch small cracks, chips, gouges, etc is before painting. Before applying materials (latex caulking, joint compound, etc.) or paint, make sure the work surface is free of dirt, grease and debris.

Interior paint is exposed to light and other elements which cause fading and discoloration over time. Paint from the original can may not perfectly match a surface exposed to even one month of sunlight. Therefore, be aware paint touch-ups are sometimes visible under certain lighting conditions.

> MillworkSeparations, dings and scratches that occur with wear are easily repaired by filling cracks with wood filler. Many hardware stores carry a variety of products from wood filler to pens and crayons which are meant to match the millwork color as closely as possible and simulate wood grain.

To get started, first reset loosened millwork nails with a hammer and nail set. Fill holes or cracks with wood filler (or Spackle if painted millwork) and buff away the excess material with a dry sponge or cheesecloth.

You may notice minor separations at the joints of millwork around doorways, archways, and wallboard due to the shifting framing members. You might consider delaying the repair of minor millwork cracking until approximately two years after closing, when the majority of settling and shrinkage will be complete.

DoorsAs seasons change, especially from humid summers to drier winters, you may notice interior and exterior doors that become more difficult to operate. Your front door has built-in features such as an adjustable threshold and strike plate to account for seasonal changes. There are also steps you can take to adjust interior doors. We highly recommend you become familiar with basic door adjustments and maintenance as they will be useful throughout the lifetime of your new home.

> Exterior Front Door If the front door will not close properly it may be due to misalignment of the door lock. To adjust, first tighten the screws in the strike plate on the door jamb. If the door still will not stay closed, it may be necessary to reset the strike plate one way or the other to compensate for the minor settling that occurs in every home.

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When adjusting the strike plate, first loosen the two screws on the strike plate and move the inside sliding plate towards the door jamb as needed. Retighten the two screws. You may need to do this a couple times to find the right fit. When the door closes and the dead bolt moves easily into the jamb without obstruction, the strike plate is in the proper position.

If you feel air around the bottom of a door you might also need to adjust the height of the threshold to provide a tight fit and to prevent air from flowing under the front door.

First, open the door and remove the four small plastic plugs in the threshold carefully with a putty knife. Save these plugs so you can replace them after adjusting. Underneath the plastic plugs will be four slotted screws in the threshold. These screws when turned clockwise will raise the threshold to the desired height. After all four screws have been adjusted so the bottom of the door is in contact with the threshold, the plastic plugs can be re-installed.

> Exterior Door HardwareTo maintain polished metal and prevent corrosion, regularly wipe all metal parts with a soft cloth to remove dirt and grime. Then apply a car wax to the metal surface in accordance to the wax manufacturer’s instructions. Be careful not to get wax in the keyhole. Certain brass finishes may change color, tarnish, or pit with time due to natural air exposure, prolonged use and handling.

> LocksOccasionally you will need to retighten the screws that hold the door locks and handle sets to the door. This is easily accomplished with a screwdriver. A small amount of silicone lubricant will keep the inner part of door locks working smoothly. Graphite should be used to lubricate “keyed” locks.

> Sliding Glass DoorsSliding glass doors are suspended in a frame and slide on nylon rollers. Occasional spraying of the tracks with a silicone solution after cleaning will assure smooth operation. Rocks and dirt should be removed promptly from the track to avoid damage to both nylon guide wheels and the track. If a door is hard to open or close, be sure to check the track to determine if an object may be restricting its operation. Never force a door, as you may rack it out of square and incur unnecessary repair expense. The moveable side of the door has adjustment screws on the jamb edges which, when tightened or loosened, provide the required tensions for smooth operation.

Small drain holes are located in the tracks and permit water to escape from the track channel. Be sure these holes are kept open; otherwise, water may back up under the moveable side and leak into the house. Although this door is equipped with rubber sealing strips and nylon weather stripping to provide a tight seal, some rain may seep around the edges if hard, driving rain blows water directly against door surfaces.

> Garage DoorsOverhead garage doors are subject to seasonal temperature changes and may require periodic adjustment. Occasional slight sticking is normal and even desirable for a weather-tight fit.

The moving parts of garage doors should be oiled about once every three months. The screws that fasten the hardware to a door should be tightened after one year because springs may rust or break. Replacements can be found at many local hardware stores. To install new springs, open the door, brace to keep it from falling, hook the spring on the bottom, and pull it to the upper hook. In some cases it may be best to have a garage door repair company do the replacement.

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If an overhead door is left up for long periods of time, it may warp inward. Adjust the nuts on the metal rods or straps across the top and bottom of the door to correct it.

> Interior DoorsIf an interior door is swollen and sticking, try sanding the area where the door meets the jamb using a light grain sandpaper. If you’re having difficulty locating the sticking area, you might try placing a piece of carbon paper in between the door and jamb to locate the sticky point. Once the sticking area is located, lightly sand that area until the door operates freely.

Also check for hardware failure such as loose screws and hinges. Tighten any loose screws and check the door for sticking. If the problem persists check to see if the door or frame has shifted or is misaligned. Look carefully around the strike plates and bolt. If there is a misalignment take out the strike plate and file to fit properly.

Maintenance Tip: To open a locked interior door, locate a universal key usually left

above a bathroom door casing between the jamb and drywall. Insert the key, or a very thin flat head screwdriver, into the hole in the door knob and turn the handle.

> Bi-Fold DoorsBi-fold doors are hung on tracks with nylon guides at both the top and bottom of the door. Bi-fold closet door tracks require occasional lubrication to allow the rollers to move smoothly. Silicone spray lubricant or a similar type of dry lubricant is recommended instead of oil, which collects dust and gets sticky.

Maintenance Tip: Close bi-fold doors carefully and resist forcing shut, as this can

cause the guide to fall out of alignment. Adjust bi-fold doors if necessary.

If the bi-fold door slips off its track, only a minor adjustment with a screw driver is necessary. First get into the closet and shut the door. Look for the guide mechanism and the mechanism’s opening. Slide the mechanism up or down as necessary until it moves in the track freely without force.

Tighten the lock screw, which holds the guide in place on the track. When making this adjustment, check the other lock screws for tightness and the

guides for proper projection into the track. The aluminum track should be sprayed with a silicone solution to lubricate the nylon guide and allow easy operation.

> Door StopsRubber door stops were installed in your home to minimize damage to drywall from opening doors. However, please be aware door stops are not intended to prevent damage from a door that is slammed open. Take care when opening and closing doors and make sure door stops are not removed.

WindowsFor the most part your new windows should require little maintenance. However, there are some simple steps you can take to ensure the windows in your home operate properly.• Keep window and sliding glass door channels free

of dirt by vacuuming periodically. If the window sill channel or frame gets dirty, you may also wash it with mild, nonabrasive soap and water. Wipe dry when finished.

• Periodically lubricate all sliding window and door tracks and rollers. It is recommended that you lubricate the hardware components once a year. In areas with high salt air, at least twice a year is recommended.

• Inspect the weep holes located on the window’s exterior bottom rails to make certain they are clear of any dirt or debris. A soft bottle brush or can of high-pressure air can be useful to clear openings, if necessary. A good time to inspect and clean weep holes is when excessive rain is anticipated.

> Window ScreensWindow screens may require periodic cleaning to allow for proper air ventilation. When cleaning, remove the windows screens from the widow frames. Place the window screens on a flat surface (such as the driveway) and use a mild soap, water, and a soft bristle brush to remove dirt and grime. Clean both sides of the window screen and around the interior and exterior of the frame. Rinse off the window screens with lukewarm water, and allow the screen to dry completely before replacing in the window.

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Safety Tip: Window screens are designed for quick and easy removal in an emergency.

Window screens will not prevent a fall through an open window. Young children should be carefully supervised near open, screened windows and should not be permitted to place their weight against, or push against, a window screen. Avoid furniture configurations that give children easy access to opened windows.

> BlindsWhen operating your blinds take care to open the blinds only when slats are in the open position. Permanent damage may result from opening blinds with the slats closed. You can also protect the finish by cleaning slats often with a soft cloth. Occasionally, take blinds down and wash thoroughly, replacing the cords and tapes as needed.

> CondensationCondensation occurs whenever warm, moist air inside a home comes in contact with a colder surface such as a window, toilet tank, water heater, etc. Excessive condensation can occur with a large number of indoor plants, steam cooking and lack of fan use. By utilizing your home’s ventilation systems such as range hood fans, bathroom fans and the whole house fan you can:• Keep warm air from getting moist. • Remove warm, moist air before it can settle

indoors. • Remove excess moisture from the air. • Depending on the level of excess humidity, a

dehumidifier can also be used to help combat condensation.

AppliancesThe appliances in your home are warranted and serviced by the manufacturer, Whirlpool/Kitchen Aid or GE. When calling the manufacturer for service, be prepared with:• Your closing date (the “date of purchase” when

your warranty begins)• Appliance model number and serial number

Before enlisting warranty service first check to see if the appliance is properly plugged in, and then check the fuse box or circuit breaker. Also follow the trouble-shooting steps provided in the appliance’s instruction manual.

With a gas appliance, check to see if the pilot light is lit and the gas is turned on. If you suspect a gas leak, turn off the main gas valve near the meter and call the gas utility company.

Here are some other helpful hints for some specific appliances.

> Dishwasher• Refer to your owner’s manual for care

instructions and suggestions on the proper loading of your dishwasher.

• Don’t let plastic, glass, utensils or other objects fall to the bottom of the dishwasher, as pump damage may occur.

• The garbage disposal should always be emptied before running the dishwasher to prevent leaking from a clogged disposal.

• Be aware that a small amount of water will remain in the bottom of the dishwasher at all times. This is normal and helps to prime the dishwasher motor.

• Interior water stains may occur over time depending on the water mineral content of your local water supply.

> Stove, Oven & Range HoodsConsult your appliance manuals for specific care and maintenance instructions and for trouble-shooting steps in the case of malfunction.

Safety Tip: In the event of a power outage, do NOT use your gas appliance for heat.

Be aware, most modern gas appliances have a safety feature that prevents their use during a power outage.

Gas stoves, ovens or broilers may fail to light if the burners are clogged. If burned food particles clog the holes, clean them with a wire brush or thin stiff wire, taking care not to push the material further into the holes. Ovens and broilers should be cleaned frequently to prevent build-up of baked-on spills.

Clean or change the filter on your range hood regularly to keep it operating correctly and minimize a potential fire hazard. Clean mesh filters by swishing around in hot sudsy water. After rinsing in hot water, drip dry. Clean the underside of the range hood with a damp, sudsy cloth to remove deposits before they harden. Fan blades can be wiped, taking care not to bend the blades. Oil the fan motor as directed in your manual.

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> Washer & DryerIf you are installing your own washer and dryer take care to remove all plumbing connection caps. Check lines for debris and run water to ensure proper operation. Follow all manufacturer installation guidelines carefully.

Consider enlisting the services of a licensed and bonded contractor for appliance installation. In the event a leak occurs due to installation of an appliance not purchased through Quadrant Homes, all damages are considered homeowner responsibility.

Periodically check the exterior exhaust flap for dryer lint, and empty the dryer’s lint trap regularly to prevent clogging and minimize a potential fire hazard.

> Garbage DisposalWhile a garbage disposal is capable of grinding up most food waste it is not designed to handle all materials. Hard objects, fibrous and greasy foods should be avoided as they can clog and damage garbage disposals. Avoid:• Cooking grease• Fruit pits, bones• Corn husks, celery stalks, banana skins, avocado

skins and flower stems• Potato skins, cooked noodles and rice • Marbles, kitty litter, fish tank rock, utensils

Always use plenty of cold water when operating the disposal to keep the sink drain open and cool the disposal motor. Allow water to run 10-15 seconds before and after using the garbage disposal. Should the drain stop up, do not put “unclogging” chemicals down the disposal.

If the garbage disposal clogs, first turn off the disposal at the switch. You might also consider unplugging the unit under the cabinet or turning off the breaker to the area. Once the power is off, using your hand or a tool, remove the blockage.

Safety Tip: Always have the garbage disposal switch turned OFF when removing

substances from a clogged garbage disposal.

Some disposals have a special wrench to loosen the blade’s circulating plate. Affix the wrench to this connection located at the bottom of the unit under the cabinet. After the clog is dislodged, plug in the disposal, being careful to plug into the correct

receptacle on the 1/2 hot outlet. (The disposal may run continuously if plugged in the wrong receptacle.) If you have turned off the breaker, turn it back on and push the red reset button on the disposal underneath the sink.

> Whole House Fan Your home is equipped with a special fan, called the whole house fan, designed to circulate air throughout the home. The whole house fan is located in the hall bathroom and looks like a regular bathroom fan. However, unlike a regular bathroom fan, it runs on a timer as well as the wall switch. Most often the timer is located in the laundry room area and looks like a circular dial with metal pins running along the outer edge.

**Please be aware that the whole house fan timer overrides the wall switch. So if you notice the fan is on and the wall switch doesn’t work, you must shut the fan off at the timer.

You can program the whole house fan timer to run at different times by removing the circular face of the timer and moving the metal pins to the desired order. As the dial turns and catches a metal pin the fan will turn on until the dial reaches the next metal pin and shuts off. Move pins closer or farther apart to adjust length of run time.

The whole house fan is preset to run more frequently upon move-in. You may choose to decrease this run time; however do not disconnect it entirely. The circulation of air is vital to the function of many of your home’s systems and is crucial to maintenance.

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PlumbingYour plumbing system has been professionally installed and inspected and should provide you with years of trouble-free service with minimal maintenance. If a problem arises, tend to it promptly to prevent water damage and avoid additional repairs. Here are some plumbing procedures to be aware of, in the unlikely event of a plumbing leak.

• Main Water Shut-Off Valve The main supply valve, usually located where water enters the house, controls the flow of your entire system. It will be specifically pointed out during your homeowner orientation. Make sure everyone in your household knows how to turn it off in an emergency.

• Fixture Shut-Off Valves Intake valves for fixtures are located nearby, usually behind the toilet, under the sink, etc. Turn off the water supply at this point if the specific fixture leaks or when making repairs.

• Leaks If you discover an active leak, turn off the water supply at the nearest intake valve. If the leak is in your yard or garage, turn off the water at the meter. Minimize damage by mopping water, extracting it with a shop vacuum, catching it in a bucket, pulling up carpets to dry, etc.

> Clogged DrainsYou can help prevent drains from clogging by keeping hair and other debris out. But, if a clog occurs, first use a plunger. The rubber cup of the plunger must cover the drain opening, with water above the level of the cup. Rhythmically work the plunger up and down 10 to 20 times to build up pressure in the pipe. On sinks, cover the overflow using an old rag, and, if it is a double sink, close up the other drain prior to plunging.

If a plunger doesn’t work you can try a plumber’s snake, available at hardware or plumbing stores. The snake may loosen the debris enough to pass through the pipes, or the debris may attach itself to the end of the snake. Turn the handle of the snake in the same direction when removing it as when you inserted it to keep any material from dropping loose on the way up.

Maintenance Tip: The first place to look for a stopped up drain is in the p-trap. This

curved pipe serves as a water barrier to block sewer gas. If you have fixtures that are used infrequently, it is a good idea to run water through periodically. This will keep the water barrier intact.

> FaucetsAerators are attached to the ends of faucets in kitchens and bathrooms to reduce splashing and cut back on water use. They collect bits of debris from the water supply and need periodic cleaning. Simply unscrew the aerator from the end of the faucet, rinse washers and screens to remove debris, and replace them in their original order.

Maintenance Tip: You can extend the life of your faucets by treating them gently. Avoid

excessive force when turning water on and off.

If your faucet leaks you can most often fix it by replacing washers, but single-control faucets may need the cartridge replaced. You can find washers at hardware stores, but you may have to go to a plumbing supply store for a replacement cartridge.

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Before you begin, be sure to turn off the water supply at the nearest intake valve. With a wrench, unscrew the large nut at the top of the faucet, taking care not to damage the finish. Unscrew the internal assembly. At the base of the assembly, a small, slotted screw holds the washer in place. Use a small screwdriver to remove the washer; replace the washer with a new one of the proper size. Check for loose material or debris in the seating area. Replace the inner assembly and the large nut and tighten carefully. Turn the shut-off valve back on and check for leaks.

If you have a kitchen sink faucet with a built-in sprayer, periodically check the connection between the sprayer and hose and retighten the screws as necessary. This connection can loosen with use over time, and may require periodic maintenance.

> ToiletsNew “water saver” toilets use less water than the toilets of yesteryear. Be aware you may need to flush more than once. Single-ply toilet tissue is recommended. Refrain from disposing of other items in the toilet, even if the items are identified as “flushable” by the manufacturer.

Maintenance Tip: Leave-in toilet cleaning tablets can erode internal toilet mechanics

over time and should be avoided.

A toilet that doesn’t flush properly or runs may need a simple water level adjustment. To adjust, remove the tank top lid carefully and adjust the float by either freeing it from binding or adjusting the float screw until the proper water level is achieved. In time, you may need to clean the ball

seat of rust or dirt and replace the ball or intake valve washer.

Green Living Tip: Check for toilet leaks by adding a few drops of food coloring to the

toilet tank. Don’t flush the toilet for 15 minutes. After, if color appears in the toilet bowl you have a leak in the flapper valve. Once the test is done, immediately flush to avoid staining the bowl, and replace parts as necessary.

> Fixtures & Finishes China and porcelain surfaces will chip if hit by a heavy or sharp object and can be scratched or dulled by scraping or banging of metal utensils. Once a surface is scratched or nicked, the finish is more likely to stain, and it becomes increasingly harder to restore the luster. All glass used in bathtub and shower enclosures is tempered safety glass. Slight imperfections can be found in rough rolled glass, such as bubbles, streaks, tear drops, runs and similar markings.

> Supply Lines & Water PressurePlumbing pipes are highly resistant to rust and corrosion and should last a lifetime. If a leak in the system should occur around a loose or damaged joint, contact Customer Care within the first two years of home ownership; after two years call the plumber of your choice. We recommend not trying to repair the leak yourself.

In areas where water pressure is high, regulators are installed to reduce the pressure and protect appliances and internal plumbing such as dishwashers, washing machines, etc. It is very important that you DO NOT adjust the pressure regulator.

If the water pressure is very high, you may occasionally hear a slight pounding or knocking sound when closing a faucet abruptly. Worn or loose washers, loose faucet parts, air in the pipes or dramatic seasonal changes can also create plumbing noise.

Appliances such as the dishwasher and washing machine have mechanical shut-off valves that send pressure shock back through the pipes of the water system. Rest assured this sound is normal. Most people will have no difficulty distinguishing normal water shut-off noise from loud knocking, which might indicate a repair is needed.

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> Frozen Plumbing PreventionWhen temperatures are below freezing, you will want to take preventive measures to keep your plumbing in good working order. • Insulate Exposed Pipes and Faucets –

Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor faucets and store for the winter. Consider wrapping pipes and faucets in unheated areas. Also consider covering crawl space vents to prevent circulation of cold air.

• Indoor Precautions – Do not allow indoor temperatures to drop below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Locate the faucet furthest from the main shut-off valve and turn cold water on to just a trickle. This keeps water moving through your system and helps prevent freezing. Be aware this will increase your water bill, however.

• If the Pipes Freeze – Once the pipes are thawed, rewrap the pipes with dry insulating material to prevent refreezing. Methods of thawing pipes that require an open flame are extremely dangerous and should be avoided.

• If the Pipes Burst – Turn off the main shut-off valve to control flooding and prevent further damage.

> Crawl SpaceThe crawl space is the open area between the ground, foundation walls, and first floor joists. All crawl spaces are ventilated to help evaporate moisture and prevent mildew. The dirt of the crawl space is covered with a moisture barrier, called Visqueen, designed to keep moisture away from wood framing.

Dampness under the Visqueen is common and it means the Visqueen is doing its job by keeping moisture below. The crawl space is also graded to allow any ground water or seepage to exit through a positive drain. If there is ever standing water below the vapor barrier, peel back the Visqueen and dig a trench from the standing water to the positive drain.

In order to protect your home from mildew, it is important that the vapor barrier is kept in good repair and the crawl vents are unobstructed. Your crawl space is not intended to be a storage area. Items placed in the crawl space will hold moisture above the moisture barrier and can cause future damage.

ElectricalYour new home has been wired to meet code and safety standards. Ordinarily, small household appliances can be plugged into any electrical outlet without fear of over-loading a circuit. However, the use of larger appliances, or simultaneous use of several small appliances on the same circuit may cause an overload and trip a circuit breaker.

Only a licensed electrician should be allowed to make any repair or modification to your electrical system. We recommend never attempting a repair yourself. There are, however, simple steps to follow in diagnosing a problem.

> Circuit BreakersYour electrical wiring is protected by circuit breakers located in the main panel. The main circuit breaker is located in the electrical service panel along with numerous smaller circuit breakers. On the inside lid of the breaker box you will find a description of which circuit breakers control the various rooms and appliances in your home.

Circuit breakers which have “tripped” should be reset by first switching the breaker to the full “OFF” position, then fully back to the “ON” position. There will be an audible click. If the circuit breaker trips again, attempt to locate the cause and correct.

Other causes of circuit breaker tripping are: (1) worn cords or defective plug connections; (2) defects within an appliance; (3) starting an electrical motor (motors require more current to start than they require when operating); (4) outlet exposed to moisture.

Safety Tip: Avoid direct contact with worn wires or plugs. If you cannot locate the

cause yourself, call an electrician.

You should check your appliance for a possible short or other malfunction if the breaker continues to cut off. NOTE: Do not plug in large appliances like a freezer or treadmill unless it is specified as a dedicated outlet.

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> GFCI Breaker – Ground Fault Circuit InterrupterThe ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is a low voltage breaker required by building code as a safety feature to control the electrical current to “wet” areas of your home. GFCI plugs are often located in the kitchen, bathrooms, garage, and exterior. GFCI outlets sense extra load on the circuit and cut power to prevent electrical shock.

If a GFCI trips you can reset it. The test/reset button is located on one of the GFCI plugs. Push the button “in” to reconnect power to the plug.

Most exterior outlets are controlled by a GFCI in the garage. If exterior outlets do not have power, first reset the GFCI in the garage before resetting the breaker.

> OutletsElectrical code requires outlets to have a safety feature which discourages the entry of foreign objects. To plug in your appliance first put the prongs in partially; after you feel the safety mechanism release, continue plugging the appliance in fully.

If an outlet is not working, check to see if it is switch operated. Often these outlets are installed upside down by the electrician to differentiate them. If switch operated, only the upper receptacle will be controlled by the switch.

If the outlet is still not working and is not controlled by a switch, plug in an appliance to see if it’s operable in another location. If the outlet is still

not working, call Customer Care during year one or a licensed and bonded electrician if the warranty has expired.

> Lights, Fixtures & BulbsMost of the light fixtures in your home are designed to accept 60 watt light bulbs. Larger bulbs generate too much heat and can be a fire hazard. To prevent this hazard, be careful to stay within the wattage rating marked on the fixture.

Recessed can light fixtures are located throughout your new home. Do not use bulbs greater than 75 watts. A higher wattage bulb may activate the thermal overload device in can lights and automatically shut down the light fixture.

If you have problems taking down a dome ceiling fixture to change a bulb there are some helpful tips to consider: First, allow the fixture to cool down. When hot, the glass dome expands, making the fixture more difficult to unscrew. After the fixture is cool, use a screwdriver to tap gently around the exterior of dome. If you have rubber gloves, put them on as this will provide a more solid grip on the glass. Using both hands, start gently unscrewing the glass. Be careful to avoid upward pressure on the glass as this may create unnecessary friction. Keep turning gently until the glass is removed.

> Power FailuresIn the event of complete power failure, notify the power company. If the power failure has occurred only in your house, check the main circuit breaker located in the panel box to determine if it has been tripped. If this doesn’t correct the problem, flip the main breaker to the OFF position and call the power company.

> Electrical Safety Tips:• Do not overload a circuit by using too many

appliances at the same time. • Do not modify 3-wire cord appliances to 2-wire.

The third wire should be grounded and used appropriately for safety.

• Water is a conductor of electricity. Always unplug appliances before touching wet fixtures or metal at the same time.

• Never touch a fan, radio or any other appliance while in a bathtub or shower.

• Power surges can cause bulbs to burn out. Power surges are the result of local conditions within the electrical utility.

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> Smoke DetectorsSmoke detectors are strategically placed in your home in compliance with jurisdictional fire safety requirements. The smoke detectors are hard-wired and have battery back-up. If you hear a beeping noise this may indicate a battery requires replacement.

Rather than replacing a battery individually, replace all of the batteries at once. If the beeping continues this may indicate a problem with the wiring of a detector. If this occurs contact Customer Care or an electrician.

Test smoke detectors every six months to make sure they are operating normally. A good way to remember is to test during daylight savings time. Also give them a thorough cleaning to ensure dust doesn’t collect on the cover or within the unit.

HeatingTo get maximum efficiency from your heating system, read and follow all warranty and operating information provided with your furnace and thermostat. If you have additional questions, or if an emergency arises, contact Customer Care.

> Care & Problem SolvingIf you experience a total loss of heat, check the circuit breaker to be certain it is in the full “ON” position. A tripped breaker must be turned all the way off then back on to reset. Also check to make sure the switch next to the furnace is on.

The thermostat switch must be on “heat” and the fan switch should be on “auto.” If you go through this list with no success, call Quadrant Homes’ Customer Care or a licensed and bonded heating contractor.

Maintenance Tip: Replace the furnace filter every three months to ensure maximum

efficiency and maintain air quality. Consider having your heating system inspected and cleaned at least once a year by a professional.

> Electronic Air Cleaner & HEPA FilterIf you purchased an electronic air cleaner or HEPA filter please be aware these systems require maintenance in addition to the regular maintenance for your heating and/or air conditioning. HEPA systems may require purchase

of special replacement filters. Please refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions for proper cleaning and maintenance.

The Electronic Air Cleaner’s lightweight aluminum collecting cells are durable and easy to maintain. They can be removed and washed out every two to three months. Please be aware that the Electronic Air Cleaner operates by attracting dust particles. Don’t be alarmed if you observe minor sparking or hear noises consistent with static electricity.

> FireplaceQuadrant Homes offers installation of both electric and gas fireplaces. Both models are operated with a simple switch on the wall and should circulate heat if the fan option was selected at the Design Studio.

Gas fireplaces require more troubleshooting knowledge as this fireplace relies on the supply of natural gas to ignite a flame. Familiarize yourself with how to turn the gas supply on/off, and how to light the pilot light. To light the pilot:1. Locate gas supply valve (typically behind

louvers, below glass opening).2. Open valve by pivoting handle so it’s parallel to

gas line.3. Locate pilot assembly with spark igniter

(located behind and below logs in the firebox – typically in the bottom center).

4. Then locate red or black igniter button. Push igniter to verify spark at pilot area.

5. Locate the black or green valve control knob (knob with the words “ON,” “OFF” and “PILOT” on it). Push in and rotate counter-clockwise until the word “PILOT” is in the 6 o’clock position.

6. While pressing and holding in the valve knob (in “PILOT” position – it should press in about 1/4”), press the red button repeatedly (once per second) until the pilot ignites. If the pilot does not light, wait five minutes and try again. Once the pilot is lit, continue to hold the valve knob in for 30 seconds, then slowly release.

7. If the pilot light goes out, contact your nearest dealer for service. Remember to shut the gas supply valve off. If it remains lit, press the valve knob in slightly and rotate counter-clockwise until the word “ON” is in the 6 o’clock position.

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8. Finally, turn the unit’s ON/OFF switch (or wall switch or remote control) to the “ON” position to start your fire.

9. Enjoy your fireplace!

Please familiarize yourself with the main gas feed line. If the fireplace is running and you don’t want to reach under the fireplace to shut off the gas, there is a metal handle located in the floor next to your fireplace. This valve when turned closes off the gas line. Use this valve if you need to shut off the gas quickly while the fireplace is on in order to avoid direct contact with the fireplace. You will most often shut your fireplace off by turning the wall switch off.

On a new gas fireplace there is a curing time or burn-in time when the oils, etc. from manufacturing are released. To speed up this process burn the fireplace three hours; completely cool down the fireplace, remove the glass and clean it with specialty fireplace glass cleaner; replace the glass and continue to burn the fireplace an additional 9-21 hours. (Make sure you re-latch the glass so it is securely fastened on your fireplace.) If necessary, open a window to release any odor during this process. This should help eliminate the manufacturing smell on a new fireplace.

> Water HeaterYour home has been supplied with a quality water heater with sensitive thermostatic controls. We have set the controls as required by code to prevent accidental scalding and to conserve energy. The temperature of your water heater is preset at the factory and may range from 125 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Lower temperatures are recommended for homes with small children. However, please note that setting the temperature below 125 degrees Fahrenheit may interfere with the proper functioning of your dishwasher.

Once your hot water heater is set at the desired temperature, keep adjustments to a minimum. Recovery time for hot water takes longer in winter months since water entering your heater is colder during winter.

Your hot water heater may be heated by natural gas. If the pilot fails to light, follow instructions printed on the water heater, call the supplier or Customer Care.

Safety Tip: Don’t store anything near your hot water heater because it will obstruct

the flow of air and create a fire hazard.

If your home includes an electric water heater, the electric heating element(s) may also be warranted by the manufacturer. Check the manufacturer’s materials provided with your water heater for specific details.

Flooring> Vinyl FlooringTake care when moving heavy furniture or appliances into your new home. As a precaution, place plywood or hardboard panels on the new floor and “walk” the objects across the panels. Carpet samples or remnants can also be used for this purpose. Vinyl is not designed to withstand damage from heavy objects and may tear or wrinkle. Tears in vinyl floors are not warranted, and must be noted prior to occupancy.

Sharp edges of furniture legs can also permanently damage vinyl with extended use. Consider using plastic caps, furniture pads or castors on furniture legs.

Tears, cuts and indentations can also occur from high heels, rocks embedded in shoes, dropped objects, unprotected chair or table legs, or children’s toys. Deep burns and cuts should be repaired by a qualified flooring installer.

Maintenance Tip: Thin “stiletto” heels can seriously damage all types of flooring. A

woman wearing 1/4” high heels exerts in excess of 2,000 lbs of pressure per square inch. These shoes can dent vinyl floors, hardwood floors, chip ceramic tile, and puncture carpet.

Vinyl flooring may discolor with some rubber-backed floor rugs and with sun exposure over time. Avoid using rugs that have rubber to latex backing. To protect your floor from sunlight during peak hours, full-length window coverings are recommended for large windows and sliding glass doors.

When cleaning your vinyl floor, remove loose dirt daily with a broom, dust mop or vacuum. Wipe spills immediately; use a damp sponge, cloth or mop to clean dried spots. When a thorough cleaning is required, use diluted detergent or a

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cleaner recommended by the manufacturer. Scrub to loosen dirt, wipe up cleaning solution, rinse and dry thoroughly. Never let water stand on vinyl floors.

> Carpet The carpeting in your home was laid by a professional installer as prescribed by the manufacturer. While wear is inevitable, there are some steps you can take to care for your carpet so you can enjoy it for years to come. Proper care is quick, easy and inexpensive. • Prevent soil accumulation

Clean outdoor mats at doorways to keep dirt from being tracked indoors. Relocate furniture periodically to allow for even distribution of wear. Use mats and runners in heavy traffic areas to reduce wear. Rotate non wall-to-wall carpet occasionally to reduce wear.

• Vacuum frequently Soil and dust left in carpets are gritty, sharp-edged particles that erode the pile as effectively as sandpaper. You cannot vacuum too frequently.

• Clean up spills promptly Check with the carpet manufacturer to get the proper stain cleaning instructions. A well intentioned but improper attempt at stain removal may permanently damage the carpet fibers.

Maintenance Tip: Vacuuming will remove loose fibers from carpet yarns. You may

see a high volume of loose fibers after moving in. This is normal with new carpet and should lessen with time depending on how often you vacuum.

Seams in the carpets are unavoidable, as carpet is manufactured in roll widths which are normally less than the width of a room. As time goes by, carpet fibers relax and seams, which may be more noticeable when new, become less noticeable with time.

> Filtration SoilFiltration soil is a natural occurrence in carpet along the edge of walls, under doorways, around baseboards and heating vents, and along the edges of stairs. This is because the carpet acts as a filter for dust that is circulating due to open windows, natural convection currents and anything that

can create a movement of air within the home. Quadrant Homes caulks the edge of all walls to help prevent soil filtration.

This condition may appear over a period of only a few weeks, or it may take months or even years before it is noticeable. The severity of the problem is directly proportional to the volume of airflow and the relative dirtiness of the air.

Carpet filtration soil is much more noticeable on lighter carpets. Regular cleaning and replacing filters in your furnace, air cleaner and/or air conditioner is a good preventative measure. However, some carpet filtration may not be completely prevented.

> Carpet First Aid• Burns: Cut charred tips by cutting with curved

fingernail scissors. A deeply burned spot may need major replacement; see your carpet dealer.

• Dents: Caused by furniture or heavy objects. Move furniture occasionally. Brush the dented area or use a grooming tool to loosen and stand up mashed tufts.

• Fuzzing: Pile of loose fibers bound at one end. Mostly due to fiber breakage, surface wear and the cutting of filaments by embedded grit. Vacuum frequently to get rid of grit. Carefully clip protruding fibers.

• Pile Crushing: Pile becomes crushed or compacted with use. Vacuum with “beater bar” or use a carpet rake to restore and lift the crushed pile.

• Pilling: Small balls of tangled fiber lint. “Pills” can be clipped with scissors.

• Shading: Carpet appears variously dark and light. This is characteristic of dense, cut pile carpets and occurs when light reflects differently from the tips and sides of tufts; can be minimized by making final vacuum strokes in the same direction.

• Shedding: Loose fibers are normal in new cut pile carpets, and the amount is insignificant. Vacuum regularly to remove loose fibers.

• Snags: Tufts that are pulled out of the carpet. Clip off with scissors; never pull them. If a long “run” occurs, see your carpet dealer to retuft or glue back in place.

• Sprouts: Yarn tufts that stick up higher than the carpet. Clip off excess length with scissors or fingernail clipper. Do not use a knife.

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Safety Tip: Chemicals and carpets are a bad combination. Here are some culprits:

• Acne medicines• Acne bleaches• DMSO muscular-ache medication• Household cleaners• Insecticides and pesticides• Plant food

Once a chemical stain is visible on your carpet, the damage is done and the carpet will likely need restoration or replacement. If you know that one of these chemicals has come in contact with your carpet, utilize a professional carpet cleaner as soon as possible.

> Hardwood Hardwood flooring is an investment that, with proper care, will last for years to come. Familiarize yourself with the hardwood flooring manufacturer’s care and maintenance recommendations. Often manufacturers advertise specific products to clean and care for hardwood or manufactured flooring.

> Hardwood Maintenance Tips• Wipe up spills immediately. Standing water is the

enemy of hardwood; NEVER wet mop hardwood. Always thoroughly dry if using a damp cloth to clean.

• Clean dirt and grit frequently. Small particles can act like sandpaper and can damage the finish on your hardwood floor.

• Control environmental conditions: Ideal interior temperature is 68-72 degrees and 40-60 percent humidity.

• Vacuum with a brush attachment; don’t vacuum with a beater bar.

• Lift furniture to move; do not drag across the floor.

• Be aware that high heels can dent a hardwood floor.

• Don’t use throw rugs with rubber or vinyl backing without checking to determine if they will affect your floor’s finish.

• Direct sun can discolor your hardwood floor. Use curtains or blinds to protect flooring from the sun’s intense UV rays.

• Maintain adequate air circulation and ventilation; excessive heat or dryness can result in gapping and splitting, and excessive humidity can result in cupping.

• Hardwood flooring is a natural material that expands and contracts slightly in response to seasonal changes. Minor gaps are to be expected.

Tile & Countertops> Ceramic & Granite CountertopsTile countertops are durable and with reasonable care, will give you years of good service. As a preventative measure you may wish to apply a grout sealer to the countertop to reduce the chance of discoloration. This sealant product is available at most hardware stores and should be applied soon after you move in.

Maintenance Tip: Granite tile, unlike ceramic, is a more porous tile and requires

sealing with an approved sealant up to two times a year to prevent staining.

Ceramic tile grout is subject to cracking with the slightest shrinkage of lumber, and it is inevitable that this will occur during the first year. Check grout and caulking every six months and touch up as needed. Eventually the maintenance of your tile counter will require that you remove and replace all grout.

Tile can be damaged by sudden impacts such as a dropped pan and by knife cuts. Avoid using rough and jagged utensils on countertops or exposure to high heat by placing a pot from a stove burner on the tile surface. If you have a high gloss finish, be aware the surface is more susceptible to scratching. Deep colors and brightly glazed tiles also scratch more easily than lightly colored and matte tiles.

> Tub & Shower TileTub and shower tile may also develop separations where vertical and horizontal surfaces meet at 90-degree angles, and where tile meets plastic, fiberglass or other material. This separation is natural and is caused by expansion and contraction of various materials.

It is extremely important that you re-caulk these areas when separation occurs to prevent water damage to surrounding areas, walls and cabinets. Seal any separation or gap that could let water travel and cause possible damage. Caulking that contains silicone works best where water is present.

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> Slab CountertopsToday’s slab countertop materials are made of highly durable materials that will last for a lifetime with the proper care. Depending on the material, additional care may be needed to seal the countertops periodically. Homeowners should also take care to always use a cutting board to avoid scratching surfaces and set hot cookware on hot pads or trivets and not on the countertop surface. Sudden excessive force and/or pressure from objects can damage the surface of any material no matter how durable and may cause chips and cracks. In general, cleansers developed specifically for stone surfaces are desirable as they are typically acid-free and are comprised of a concentrated neutral pH cleanser that will not affect existing seals or wax-type coatings. But, here are some material specific suggestions:

Ceasarstone, Corian & QuartzManufactured countertops are often desirable because they are easy to clean and offer a hard, nonporous surface. In most cases, soap and water or a mild detergent is all that is required to maintain its luster. If necessary, apply common, non-abrasive, household cleaners directly on a damp cloth or sponge and wipe the surface, rinsing thoroughly after cleaning. To remove adhered material such as food, gum, or nail polish, first scrape away the excess material with a plastic putty knife and then clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove any marks left behind and any residual dirt. Check with your manufacturer’s recommendations for any preferred cleaning products.

GraniteWhile the natural beauty of a granite countertop is undeniable, its porous surface will require additional care & maintenance. Granite tops are sealed by the manufacturer prior to installation with a USDA approved 511 impregnator/sealer, however we recommend you seal the product prior to your initial use as the porous nature of a granite top may require more than one application of sealer for best performance. Take care to ensure spills are wiped up quickly as lingering water may cause staining if left unawares. You might consider storing soaps (hand & dish soaps) in a caddy with legs lifting it off the countertop surface. This will ensure water is not trapped around materials that tend to stay stationary on the countertop for longer periods of time. For cleaning, soap and water or a mild detergent is recommended taking care to avoid abrasive cleansers. To remove

adhered material such as food, gum, or nail polish, first scrape away the excess material with a plastic putty knife and then clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove any marks left behind and any residual dirt. Check with your manufacturer’s recommendations for any preferred cleaning products and sealing requirements.

MarbleAs a natural stone, marble typically has a lower liquid absorption rate, but it is advisable to seal the product if directed by the manufacturer’s instructions. It is still a good practice to wipe up spills quickly and store materials in a manner that do not allow water to be trapped on the countertop surface for long periods of time. For routine cleaning utilize a damp cloth or paper towel. For more difficult stains a small amount of mild soap can be utilized and for stubborn stains you can incorporate a neutral pH cleaner and a non abrasive scrub pad. Be certain to rinse all areas thoroughly when applying any type of cleaning agent and quickly dry any excess moisture.

Maintenance Tip: Caulk naturally shrinks with time and requires replacement. All

caulking is considered homeowner maintenance.

CleaningGreen Living Tip: Learn about alternatives to toxic cleaners. Consider child and pet

friendly alternatives or “all-purpose” cleaners that can be used to clean walls, floors, counters and tile.

> BathroomAvoid using abrasive cleaners that dull or stain the finish if used improperly or excessively. The safest cleansers are non-abrasive powders, such as baking soda. Use ordinary dishwashing detergent to keep shower door glass clean. If hard water mineral deposits are a problem, use a commercial glass cleaner.

> KitchenUse a non-abrasive cleanser or a commercial stainless steel cleanser when needed; these generally resist staining and need only occasional scrubbing. Rust stains should be removed with a commercial powder rust remover.

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First 30 Days Seal tile & grout Every 90 Days Change the furnace filter

Every 6 Months Test smoke detectors & replace batteries Check caulking & reapply if necessary

Every 12 Months Touch-up tile grout Check crawl space drainage & plumbing Inspect window & door seals (before windy & rainy seasons) Clean window weep holes (before windy & rainy seasons) Clean fan blower fireplace debris

Periodically or as needed Change light bulbs as needed Flush water heater

INTERIOR PERIODIC MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

Wet, metal utensils can cause rust stains if left in the sink. Wet steel wool pads can also leave rust stains; they should be stored appropriately.Dishwashers are great time savers, but dishwasher detergent is hard on the environment. Consider products that are chlorine- and phosphate-free.Most oven cleaners contain lye and can burn your skin and eyes. They also leave a foul smell in the air. To keep oven cleaning to a minimum, place aluminum foil or a metal tray underneath whatever it is you are cooking, and wipe up spills as soon as the oven is cool.

> LaundryHousehold chlorine bleach or detergents with phosphates can irritate the lungs and eyes. Non-chlorine bleach won’t have the same disinfectant properties, but they are safer for you and your family. So are phosphate-free detergents. Some spot removers also contain toxic chemicals and should be avoided. Before resorting to these stain removers, try using dishwashing liquid, water or rubbing alcohol on the spot.

Safety Tip: Never mix two household cleaners together; it can be hazardous!

When certain products with chlorine bleach are mixed with ammonia or acid cleaners they can emit hazardous gases that cause lung damage.

Water ConservationWater conservation saves both water and energy, as energy is needed to heat water and run appliances. Small steps can go a long way. The following tips are offered to aid your conservation efforts:• Turn off the water while brushing your teeth.• Flush only toilet appropriate materials. (1.6

gallons per flush)• Bath or shower? A partially full bathtub uses less

water than a long shower, but a short shower uses less water than a full tub. (5-10 gallons per minute for shower)

• Load your dishwasher to capacity before turning it on. (15-25 gallons per load)

• Load your washing machine to capacity before running. (40+ gallons per load)

• Repair all leaks promptly to prevent valuable water loss. A slow drip can use 15-20 gallons a day, and a 1/16-inch faucet leak wastes over 100 gallons in 24 hours.

Green Living Tip: The easiest way to check for a leak is to check your water meter

reading, and then check it again an hour later. Do not use any water during this period. If the meter reading changes, you have a leak. If you have a leak, find your main water shut-off valve and turn it off. Again, read the meter, wait an hour and check it again. If the meter reading has changed, the leak is in the line leading to your house. If the reading is the same, the leak is within the home.

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Notes

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IndexAppliances • 43

Dishwasher • 43Garbage Disposal • 44Stove, Oven & Range Hoods • 43Washer & Dryer • 44Whole House Fan • 44

Building Process • 6

Starting a House • 6Working Days and Non-Working Days • 6

Cleaning • 53

Bathroom • 53Kitchen • 53Laundry • 53

Codes and Permits • 11

Building Code • 11Building Permit • 11Quadrant Homes Quality • 11

New Home Advisor • 1

Construction Process • 7

Acceptance Review • 8Final Orientation Meeting • 8Frame Walk Orientation • 8Homesite Orientation • 8Safety • 7

Customer Satisfaction • 19

Referral Program • 19Surveys & Feedback • 19

Doors • 40

Bi-Fold Doors • 42Door Stops • 42Exterior Door Hardware • 41Exterior Front Door • 40Garage Doors • 41Interior Doors • 42Locks • 41Sliding Glass Doors • 41

Electrical • 47

Circuit Breakers • 47Electrical Safety Tips • 48GFCI – Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter • 48Lights, Fixtures & Bulbs • 48Outlets • 48Power Failures • 48Smoke Detectors • 49

Exterior Materials • 34

Concrete • 35Fencing • 35Framing • 35Gutters & Storm Drainage • 34Masonry • 35Plumbing - Exterior Faucets • 36Roof • 34Siding • 34

Exterior Seasonal Maintenance Checklist • 37

Exterior Surfaces • 33

Mildew • 33Painted Surfaces • 33Stained Surfaces • 33

Exterior Water Conservation • 36

Financing and Closing Process • 3

Keeping Your Lender Informed • 4Lender Affiliation • 4Loan Application • 3Locking an Interest Rate • 4Occupying Your New Home • 4Preparing to Close • 4Prequalification and Loan Approval • 4

Flooring • 50

Carpet • 51Carpet First Aid • 51Filtration Soil • 51Hardwood • 52Hardwood Maintenance Tips • 52Vinyl Flooring • 50

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Foundation and Crawl Space • 12

Framing • 12

Building Wrap • 13Floor Trusses • 13I-Joists • 12Roof Trusses • 13Wall Framing • 12

Heating • 49

Care & Problem Solving • 49Electronic Air Cleaner & HEPA Filter • 49Fireplace • 49Water Heater • 50

Homeowners Associations • 21

Common Areas • 22FAQ • 21Homeowner Participation • 22Legal Basis of HOAs • 22Property Manager • 23Restricted Uses • 22Role of the Declarant • 22Transition to Owner Control • 22

Homesite • 11

Interior Periodic Maintenance Checklist • 54

Interior Walls • 39

Drywall • 39Drywall Crack • 40Millwork • 40Nail Pops • 39Paint • 40

Interior Water Conservation • 53

Landscaping • 29

Drainage & Grading • 31Fertilizing Lawns • 30Fertilizing Schedule • 30Fertilizing Trees & Shrubs • 29Mowing Tips • 31Overseeding and Aerating • 30Pest & Weed Control • 31Retaining Walls • 32Trees & Shrubs • 29Watering New Sod • 29

Moving Preparations • 15Change of Address Notifications • 15Moving to a Brand New Area? • 15Utilities • 15

Design Studio • 4

Electrical Appointments • 5Final Change Orders • 5Finalizing Your Selections • 5Non-English Speaking Homebuyers • 5Out of State Homebuyers • 5Q & A Appointments • 5Your First Visit • 5

Plumbing • 45

Clogged Drains • 45Crawl Space • 47Faucets • 45Fixtures & Finishes • 46Frozen Plumbing Prevention • 47Supply Lines & Water Pressure • 46Toilets • 46

Septic System • 36

Tile & Countertops • 52

Ceramic & Granite Countertops • 52Tub & Shower Tile • 52Slab Countertops • 53

Warranty • 25

Contact Customer Care • 26Emergency Contact • 26Emergency Service • 26Homeowner Maintenance • 27Manufacturer Warranty • 25

Windows • 42

Blinds • 43Condensation • 43Window Screens • 42

Winterization • 32

Cold Weather Care • 32Frozen Plumbing Protection • 32

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Quadrant Homes, a member of the TRI P ointe G roup.

quadranthomes.com

The prices of our homes, included features, plans, specifications, promotions/incentives, neighborhood build-out and available locations are subject to change without notice. Stated dimensions, square footage and acreage are approximate and should not be used as a representation of any home’s or homesite’s precise or actual size, location or orientation. There is no guarantee that any particular homesite or home will be available. No information or material herein is to be construed to be an offer or solicitation for sale. Not all features and options are available in all homes. Unless otherwise expressly stated, homes do not come with hardscape, landscape, or other decorator items. Community maps, illustrations, plans and/or amenities reflect our current vision and are subject to change without notice. Maps not to scale. Some amenities may not yet be constructed. Builder reserves the right to change the size, design, configuration and location of amenities not yet constructed and does not warrant the suitability thereof for any use or for any person. Any photographs or renderings used herein reflect artists’ conceptions and are for illustrative purposes only. Photographs or renderings of people do not depict or indicate any preference regarding race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, handicap/physical disability, familial status, or national origin. Marketing promotions/incentives, if any, are subject to conditions or restrictions and are subject to change without notice. No warranty or guarantee is made regarding any particular area public school/school district or that any particular public school/school district will ser-vice any given community. Schools/school districts may change over time. Builder does not warrant the suitability of any trail for any use or for any person. Trails may be dangerous—use at your own risk. You must visit a Quadrant New Home Gallery to purchase a home. Please consult a New Home Advisor for specific price and other information for each community. Please see the actual purchase agreement for additional information, disclosures, and disclaimers relating to any home, homesite and/or the features thereof. A Broker/Agent must register their client in person on client’s first visit at each community for a Broker/Agent to receive a commission or referral fee, if available. Our name and the logos contained herein are registered trademarks of TRI Pointe Group, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Contractor’s License No. QUADRC*221OF. The exclusive real estate firm of The Quadrant Corporation is Quadrant Real Estate LLC – Real Estate License No. 19475. © 2017 The Quadrant Corporation, a member of the TRI Pointe Group. All rights reserved. 4/11/2017

HOMEOWNER MANUAL...about the buying process, home features, and quality standards. Your Dream...

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Transcript of HOMEOWNER MANUAL...about the buying process, home features, and quality standards. Your Dream...