Homeowner Maintenance Manual

S E C T I O N 4 — H OM E C OM P O N E N T S A N D T O P I C S

Snags Sharp-edged objects can grab or snag the carpet fiber. When this occurs, cut off the snag. If the snag is especially large, call a professional. Sprouting Occasionally you may find small tufts of fiber sprouting above the carpet surface. Simply use scissors to cut off the sprout. Do not attempt to pull it because other fibers will come out in the process. Stains No carpet is stain-proof. Although your carpet manufacturer designates your carpet as stain-resistant, some substances may still cause permanent staining. These include hair dyes, shoe polish, paints and India ink. Some substances destroy or change the color of carpets, including bleaches, acne medications, drain cleaners, plant food, insecticides, and food or beverages with strongly colored natural dyes as found in some brands of mustard and herbal tea. Static Cooler temperatures outside often contribute to static electricity inside. You can install a humidifier to help control static build-up. All materials used in the construction of your home have a certain degree of expansion and contraction. Different materials expand at different rates. Changes in weather, the surrounding temperature and settling are all forces contributing to the contraction, and expansion rates. These forces can cause both exterior and interior caulked seams to separate when different materials adjoin each other. This separation does not indicate improper workmanship. Time and weather will shrink and dry caulking so that it no longer provides a good seal. As routine maintenance, check the caulking and make needed repairs. Caulking compounds and dispenser guns are available at hardware stores. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to be certain that you select an appropriate caulk for the intended purpose. Colored Caulk Colored caulking is available where larger selections are provided. As with any colored material, dye lots can vary. Latex Caulk Latex caulking is appropriate for an area that requires painting, such as along the stair stringer or where wood trim meets the wall. Silicone Caulk Caulking that contains silicone will not accept paint; it works best where water is present, for example, where tub meets tile or a sink meets a countertop. CAULKING Homeowner Care and Maintenance

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C E N T U R Y C OMM U N I T I E S

PA G E 4 . 5