Warranty Service
Warranty Service Program
Exterior Finishes
The primary exterior finishes on your home are wood and stucco. Because they are exposed to constantly changing weather conditions, the exterior finishes require routine maintenance. Do not allow sprinklers to spray the exterior surfaces of your home. We recommend that you inspect the exterior surfaces every three months.
Stucco
Stucco is a brittle cement product that is subject to expansion and contraction with temperature changes. Minor cracks will develop in the outer layer of stucco. This is normal and does not reduce the protective function of the stucco in any way. Fieldstone will not be responsible for minor cracks in stucco.
Small pieces of stucco may chip and fall off at the bottom of stucco walls along the metal strip referred to as the screed. This is normal.
Heavy rains can splash up dirt around the bottom of the walls. This will permanently stain the stucco. To prevent this, apply a stucco sealer soon after move-in and every two years thereafter. Stucco sealers are available at stucco supply outlets and home centers.
The white, powdery substance that sometimes accumulates on stucco surfaces is called efflorescence. It is harmless but can detract from the appearance. Efflorescence can be removed by scrubbing with a stiff brush and a strong vinegar solution or a commercial product. Consult your home center or hardware store for commercial products to remove efflorescence.
Wood
Wood is found throughout your home. Wood is a natural, porous material that requires protection with paint when exposed to the elements. Inspect your exterior wood surfaces frequently. If you find cracking or peeling of the paint, sand the area and repaint it promptly. The exterior wood on your home should be re-painted every two to four years. Surfaces that receive direct sun could require repainting more frequently.
Split or damaged wood, particularly on the ends of beams, should be caulked and re-painted. Splits along the length of beams are called “weather checks”. These are normal and do not affect the structural integrity of the beams.
The natural drying of wood can cause it to warp and split. Gaps will occur in wood molding and trim as a result. To make repairs, reposition the trim, reset popped or loose nails, and use an exterior caulk to fill any remaining gaps. Finish with touch-up paint.
Consider these suggestions:
- Repair wood where the paint is cracking or peeling.
- Repair warped or split wood members.
