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| Custom Homes |
Emergencies include plumbing leaks, gas leaks and the total loss of heat, air conditioning, water or electricity. Also, roof leaks are sometimes considered emergencies, but they only can be repaired in dry weather.
Keep in mind that severe storms may cause roof damage, but that should be reported directly to your homeowners insurance company because weather-related damage usually isn’t covered under builders’ warranties.
Be sure to report all defects that aren’t emergencies to the builder. The builder will schedule the necessary repairs and use the complaint to monitor product quality and customer satisfaction. On the other hand, if you notice major structural problems, such as uneven floors, cracks in the foundation or drywall or ill-fitting doors and windows, contact your builder immediately to arrange an inspection. These problems can be costly and time-consuming to fix.
Overall, you should know that all warranties have limits. Ask about the standards to which the builder will adhere when determining the validity of warranty repair requests. You should understand and make good use of your warranty coverage because it is a major part of your home care plan.
Building a custom home is a complicated process, but it doesn’t have to be out of your reach. The Bay Area hosts a number of quality custom homebuilders ready to make your dream property a reality.
Don’t Forget the Landscaping
It’s not uncommon that by the time a custom home is completed, the funds have run out for landscaping. That’s a shame because the landscaping on your property is important, specifically because of what it adds to resale value. Some surveys have put the increased value of excellent landscaping in the range of 10–15 percent. In addition to shade, trees can produce food, firewood or just beautiful scenery. They also can attract birds and other wildlife.
Work with an expert who can help you select tree species that are native to the region and will thrive under local conditions. By planting trees that grow naturally in your area, you can be sure they will be successful. Consult a local nursery for suggestions on trees that will thrive where you live.
Plant location on your property is another important consideration. Choose spots with adequate sunlight and water, and make sure the trees are protected from possible pests. A mesh fence can do much to prevent animals from injuring your saplings. Try to estimate how long the tree will take to become fully grown, what the tree will look like at full size and how far the root systems will reach.
Trees are most vulnerable in their first years of life and should be tended to with special care. Newly planted trees should be watered deeply on a regular basis. Allowing a hose to drip at the base of a tree for several hours will let the water soak deeply into the soil and encourage deep rooting. This will give the tree a better chance of surviving drought periods.
Keep in mind that severe storms may cause roof damage, but that should be reported directly to your homeowners insurance company because weather-related damage usually isn’t covered under builders’ warranties.
Be sure to report all defects that aren’t emergencies to the builder. The builder will schedule the necessary repairs and use the complaint to monitor product quality and customer satisfaction. On the other hand, if you notice major structural problems, such as uneven floors, cracks in the foundation or drywall or ill-fitting doors and windows, contact your builder immediately to arrange an inspection. These problems can be costly and time-consuming to fix.
Overall, you should know that all warranties have limits. Ask about the standards to which the builder will adhere when determining the validity of warranty repair requests. You should understand and make good use of your warranty coverage because it is a major part of your home care plan.
Building a custom home is a complicated process, but it doesn’t have to be out of your reach. The Bay Area hosts a number of quality custom homebuilders ready to make your dream property a reality.
Don’t Forget the Landscaping
It’s not uncommon that by the time a custom home is completed, the funds have run out for landscaping. That’s a shame because the landscaping on your property is important, specifically because of what it adds to resale value. Some surveys have put the increased value of excellent landscaping in the range of 10–15 percent. In addition to shade, trees can produce food, firewood or just beautiful scenery. They also can attract birds and other wildlife.
Work with an expert who can help you select tree species that are native to the region and will thrive under local conditions. By planting trees that grow naturally in your area, you can be sure they will be successful. Consult a local nursery for suggestions on trees that will thrive where you live.
Plant location on your property is another important consideration. Choose spots with adequate sunlight and water, and make sure the trees are protected from possible pests. A mesh fence can do much to prevent animals from injuring your saplings. Try to estimate how long the tree will take to become fully grown, what the tree will look like at full size and how far the root systems will reach.
Trees are most vulnerable in their first years of life and should be tended to with special care. Newly planted trees should be watered deeply on a regular basis. Allowing a hose to drip at the base of a tree for several hours will let the water soak deeply into the soil and encourage deep rooting. This will give the tree a better chance of surviving drought periods.
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