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Vinyl SidingWhile vinyl siding comes closer to being totally maintenance free than any other siding, it will become dirty just as does a freshly painted house, a new automobile or any other product exposed to atmospheric conditions. It is recommended that you do NOT use a pressure washer as this could void your warranty. Generally, siding can be cleaned using an ordinary garden hose. If this does not do the job satisfactorily, then most manufacturers suggest the following: Equip the garden hose with a soft-bristled, long-handled car brush. Where soil is of a stubborn nature, as frequently found in industrial areas, the following cleaning solution works well:
In certain geographical areas where mildew may be a problem, substitute one quart (one liter) of 5% sodium hypochlorite (Clorox, for example) for one quart (one liter) of water in the above formula. When stubborn stains must be removed from a panel, an abrasive-type cleaner (Comet or Ajax, for example), may be used without damage to the siding. The most damage that can be done to a panel of vinyl siding is to scratch or roughen the surface. This, however, is rarely visible a few feet away from the house. When using any cleaning agents, be sure to observe the precautionary instructions on the cleaning agent container and protect shrubs and plants from direct contact with cleaning agents. Storm Drainage System (gutters, downspouts, catch basins)It is necessary that the gutters be kept clear of debris, which might clog them and cause water to run over the sides instead of through downspouts. Homeowners should check gutters periodically to insure proper functioning. Downspouts carry water to the ground and into the tight line, which then carries the flow underground away from the foundation to the storm system. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to keep the 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. Catch basin inlet grates should be kept free of debris. The sediments under water in the bottom of the catch basin and any oil floating on the water should be removed. 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 (i.e. flushed with water to verify free flow to outlet at curb face) and if obstructed, cleared. Exterior FaucetsBecause faucets have moving parts, they are likely to need repairs sooner than non-moving fixtures. You can extend the life of your faucets by treating them gently. Avoid force when turning water on and off; use normal hand pressure only. New houses often have 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. They will need special precautions if the temperature drops below freezing for any length of time. It is important to disconnect all hoses from exterior faucets during cold spells. If left connected, water will freeze in the hose and expand into the exterior faucet and potentially work its way to the washers in the faucet and the plumbing pipe itself, causing damage to one or both. Most exterior faucets are “frost-free” meaning the shut off, or point in which water is not exposed to the exterior elements, 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 on-site sewage disposal system. This consists of 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. Waste products drain from your home into a separation tank. In this tank, solids sink to the bottom and fluids either drain or are pumped into the septic field. Solids need to be periodically pumped out of the separation tank by a professional service, approximately every 3 to 5 years. The septic field may be partitioned into 2 distinct areas, depending on local requirements. Periodically, one-half of the field must be allowed to rest. This is accomplished by turning the diverter valve with a special key. It is your responsibility to observe local requirements pertaining to this maintenance practice. It is natural for a slight amount of odor to be present in the first year of use. This odor will gradually disappear 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. White bathroom tissue is recommended since dyes may not be fully biodegradable. To nurture the bacterial culture in your septic system, we recommend that you add baker’s yeast to the system periodically. Mix one packet in warm water and pour the solution into a sink drain. It is also important not to disturb the septic field. Be sure that you understand where it is located (refer to your plot plan) and never regrade, plant trees or shrubs, park heavy equipment or in any other way disrupt the area. There are a few basic guidelines for proper care:
Reminder: Read and keep information provided to you concerning proper care and maintenance of your septic system readily accessible.Water ConservationAs stated earlier, the basic principle of watering is to give grass and plants only what they need to grow and stay healthy. Once firmly established, water only when plants show signs of needing moisture.
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