WELCOME TO YOUR NEW HOME…

Your new home address is:

For general information pertaining to your new home and to request

service repairs, please log on to our website at:

www.cookhomes.ca

Your Login Information and Password are as follows:

If you have trouble logging in to our website at any time, please

contact us:

cbailey@cookhomes.ca or Ph: 519-746-6244, ext. 32

Congratulations on the Purchase of Your New Cook Home

On behalf of everyone on the Cook Homes Team, I would

like to extend a sincere thank you for choosing our
company to be the builder of your new home. I give you my
personal pledge that we will put forward our best efforts
to meet the highest expectations of you, our customer, in
all areas of our business.

Since 1985, our goal has been to deliver the best quality
product available and insure that our customers are the
most important aspect of our business. The journey of new
home ownership is a partnership between the customer and
the builder with communication as the cornerstone of that
relationship, and nowhere is communication more important
then in the delivery of our Customer service.

The production of this Homeowner’s Manual is a further

reflection of our commitment to you. I invite you take
some time and review it’s contents to get a better
understanding of the scope of your warranty protection
and the associated maintenance requirements of your new
home.

I thank you for the opportunity of participating together

with our company throughout the building process, and I
wish you many years of enjoyment in your new home.
Sincerely

Ian Cook
President
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 Customer Care Commitment
The Cook Homes Customer
Care Team continuously
demonstrates our commitment to
supporting you throughout your
journey of new home ownership.

The cornerstone of our proven

success is built on open,
professional communication,
which uniquely acknowledges
each homeowner to ensure
delivery of the highest quality
service experience.

As homebuilders, we except
nothing less than providing our
homeowners the same
superiority in workmanship and
service that we would expect for
our own homes.

Indulge yourself in the Cook

Homes advantage, and together,
we will turn your dreams into
realities.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Service ............................................................................................ 1
Emergencies ................................................................................ 3
General Contact Information......................................................... 4
Warranty ...................................................................................... 5
Tarion Warranty Information............................................................. 8
Maintenance of Your Home and Further Warranty Information ......... 9
Exterior ........................................................................................ 9
Interior ....................................................................................... 20
Furnace Heating, Air Conditioners, and HRV Systems................ 31
Plumbing.................................................................................... 34
Plumbing Fixtures....................................................................... 36
Electrical System........................................................................ 41
Floors and Floor Finishes ........................................................... 44
For Your Safety.......................................................................... 48
General Maintenance..................................................................... 50
Notes............................................................................................. 52

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Service
Prior to closing the purchase of your new home, you will meet with a
qualified representative from our company to inspect your new home
and complete the Tarion Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI), pursuant to
The New Home Warranty Plan Act. During this PDI, you will be given
the opportunity to note items of concern. These items will be
completed by closing, with the exception of seasonal work, back
ordered items, etc.

Requests for Service

Prior to your possession date, you will have received the Tarion
Homeowner Information Package. At the back of this package, you
will find the following Tarion Warranty Request Forms that you are
responsible to submit within the appropriated time frames:
• 30 Day Warranty Request Form
• Year End Warranty Request Form
• Second Year Warranty Request Form

With the exception of emergency items, affecting the use and

enjoyment of your home, we ask that you keep a list of items that
require work, and submit these items on the appropriate Service
Request Form as outlined above. Upon receipt of this Form, our
Customer Care Representative will contact you to arrange an
appointment to have all items deemed warrantable repaired.

Note: Do not deliver correspondence directly to the Site Office as it

may delay any scheduling, as the Site Office is not equipped
to accept service issues. All requests must go directly to our
Customer Care Department within the appropriated time
frames as outlined by Tarion.

General Information
You should be aware that natural settling and the drying of
construction materials will take place in your new home during the
first year and this may affect items that are both warranty related and
non-warranty related. Control the moisture in your new home –
it’s important! Today’s building products have eliminated much of
the time-consuming and often tedious work involved in home
maintenance. However, no home is maintenance free. Special care
is especially required to maintain modern, energy-efficient home

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which are tightly constructed to seal out the cold weather in winter
and keep in cool air in summer. Guidelines for properly venting your
home should be followed in order to prevent excess moisture from
building up inside the home, which can result in damage that would
not be covered by the statutory warranty. Bathroom fans, kitchen
range hoods and packaged ventilators are specifically installed in
your home to help you control moisture and contaminants. As well,
regular use of your home ventilation system will remove excess
airborne moisture caused by bathing, showering, doing laundry and
cooking. Additionally, we recommend the use of a dehumidifier to
remove excess moisture from the home. For further information and
tips on controlling moisture in your new home, please view the
Tarion website at www.tarion.com .

With regards to finishing details and drywall repairs, we will repair

drywall issues relating to shrinkage of materials such as nail pops
and cracked corners, at one time only, EXCLUDING painting, at your
one year warranty period. Any drywall repairs must be requested on
the appropriate Tarion Year End Warranty Form, and must be
marked out on the walls using green painters tape.

Please Note:
1. We cannot guarantee an exact colour match of any replacement
materials
2. We cannot accept responsibility for any damage to countertops,
cabinets, floor coverings, and plumbing fixtures brought to our
attention after closing, and not stated on your Pre-Delivery
Inspection.
3. Alterations, deletions or additions made by the homeowner are
excluded from the statutory warranty. Secondary damage
caused by defects under warranty are also excluded from the
warranty. For a full list of excluded items, please refer to page
10 of the Tarion Homeowner Information Package.

Access to Your Home

When necessary work is required, be sure to provide access to your
home during normal business hours, at a time mutually agreed upon
in advance. Failure to do so will jeopardize your statutory warranty
rights. Normal business hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.,
Monday to Friday.

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Emergencies
Certain severe conditions constitute an emergency situation. An
emergency is any warrantable deficiency within the control of your
builder that, if not attended to immediately, would likely result in
imminent and substantial damage to your home, or would likely
represent an imminent and substantial risk to the health and safety of
it’s occupants. For examples of emergency situations, please refer
to page 15 of the Tarion Homeowner Information Package.

If an emergency occurs during the first year of occupancy, please

refer to our Emergency Contact list.

Customer Care Contact Information:

Customer Care Department 519-746-6244 Ext # 32
Cook Homes Fax 519-746-4027
cbailey@cookhomes.ca
Email
jmiller@cookhomes.ca
Web Site www.cookhomes.ca

Emergency Phone Numbers

Police, Fire, Ambulance 911

Cook Homes After Hours (519) 746-6244 Ext #32

Emergency Contact Information

Gas Leak (Union Gas) for Waterloo 1-877-969-0999

City of Kitchener gas leak (519) 741-2529
Hot Water Tank Emergency Please refer to the
number located on your
hot water tank unit

Heating Emergency Please refer to the

number located on your
furnace

Electrical Emergency 519-648-2540

Water Flood in Basement 519-570-0438

Emergency

Plumbing Emergency 519-885-2140

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General Contact Information
Municipalities

City of Kitchener, 200 King Street W.

Kitchener, ON N2G 4G7
(519) 741-2848

City of Waterloo
P. O. Box #337
Waterloo, ON N2J 4A8
(519) 747-8712

Utilities

Bell Canada (519) 310-2355

Kitchener-Wilmot Hydro (519) 743-3600

Waterloo North Hydro (519) 885-6840

Union Energy (888) 718-6466

Rogers Cable (519) 748-3200

Union Gas - Waterloo (888)-774-3111

City of Kitchener-Gas & Water (519) 741-2626

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Warranty
One Year Warranty Protection
Cook Homes warrants that your new home meets the Ontario
Building Code requirements, and is free from defects in workmanship
and materials, in accordance with Tarion Provisions and guidelines,
for a one-year period from the date of possession.

During this period, most new homes may be affected by normal

settlement and shrinkages, which may cause cracking in the drywall,
wood shrinkage with possible warping, and other minor defects.

Cook Homes will provide any warranties given by manufacturers,

suppliers, and subcontractors that extend beyond the first year. In
these cases, you should make any claims directly to the
manufacturer or distributor.

When you submit your Tarion Year-End Service Request Form, we

will arrange to make necessary repair work for all warrantable items.
We recommend familiarizing yourself with the Tarion Guidelines to
determine what items are covered under warranty and what items
are excluded from warranty prior to submitting warranty request
forms.

Two Year Warranty Protection

Your home’s two year statutory warranty coverage begins on the
date you take possession of the home and ends on the day before
the second anniversary of this date. The two year warranty covers:
• Water penetration through the basement or foundation walls;
• Defects in materials, including windows, doors and caulking, or
defects in work that result in water penetration into the building
envelope;
• Defects in work or materials in the electrical, plumbing and
heating delivery and distribution systems;
• Defects in work or materials which result in the detachment,
displacement or deterioration of exterior cladding (such as
brickwork, aluminum or vinyl siding);

5
• Violations of the Ontario Building Code affecting health and
safety (including, but not limited to, violations relating to fire
safety and the structural adequacy of the home); and
• Major structural defects.

Major Structural Defects

Your home is covered for a period of seven years against major
structural defects (MSD). A major structural defect is defined in the
Act as:
• Any defect in work or materials that results in the
failure of a load-bearing part of the home’s structure
or materially and adversely affects its load-bearing
function; or
• Any defect in work or materials that materially and
adversely affects the use of the building as a home.

Warranty Exclusions Summary

The following items are not covered under the Warranty Protection
program.
• Locating survey monuments and boundary lines
• “Winterkill” in lawns
• Damage to concrete, slabs, walks, and garage floors caused by
salt or calcium products
• Damage to driveways caused by heavy or sharp objects
• Depressions of less than six inches, unevenness, flaking, or
surface stones, checking or cracking at the edges of asphalt
driveways (if applicable)
• Minor spalding of concrete at entrance to garage floor
• Minor surface cracks in concrete floors in garages, basements,
and porches
• Damage due to installation of satellite dishes and/or any other
objects such as Christmas lights
• Surface pitting, superficial cracking, and marbleizing of concrete
• Humidity and condensation problems
• Efflorescent (white powder) on concrete and brick walls

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• Painting, wallpapering, or refinishing of any drywall repairs
• Minor tool marks and blemishes in trim and other millwork
surfaces
• Variations in colour and shading on panels and trim
• Plumbing stoppages due to clogged fixtures
• Damage to plumbing fixtures due to abrasive cleaners or
careless use
• Deterioration of the toilet lining by continuous use of toilet bowl
cleaning products
• Exact colour match of any replacement material
• Damage from insects or rodents
• Alterations, deletions or additions made by the homeowner
(such as changes to the direction of the grading or the slope of
the ground away from the house)
• Settling soil around the house or along utility lines
• Normal weathering of external finishes
• Normal wear and tear, such as scuffs and scratches to floor and
wall surfaces caused by homeowners moving, decorating,
and/or day-to-day use of the home
• Secondary damage caused by defects under warranty
While the defects themselves are covered, the personal or
property damage they cause is not. However, your homeowner
insurance may cover secondary damage.

Notes:

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Tarion Homeowner’s Warranty Information

Your Tarion Enrolment #

30541
Cook Homes Vendor/Builder #

Tarion Phone Number 1-877-982-7466

Fax Number 1-877-664-9710

Tarion Website www.tarion.com

In order to protect your warranty, you must use specific Statutory

Warranty Forms to submit outstanding warranty items to Cook
Homes and Tarion, and you must submit the Forms within the
specific time periods as follows:
• During the first year of possession of your new home, a 30-Day
Form can be submitted during the first 30 days after you take
possession and a Year-End form can be submitted within the last
30 days of the first year of possession
• During the second year of possession, a Second-Year Form can
be submitted anytime

Good communication between the homeowner and the builder is the

most important factor in resolving complaints.

8
Maintenance of Your Home and Further
Warranty Information

Exterior

Your Lot
When a lot is surveyed during the development of the land and
before construction of the house, the surveyor installs pins at all lot
corners. After the foundation has been installed, the surveyor
carefully records the position of the house relative to the lot lines,
and a lot plan is prepared.

Survey Pins
As survey pins may become dislodged or buried during construction,
it is advisable to hire a qualified surveyor to relocate the lot lines if
you wish to build a fence, hedge, or any other boundary, once the
completion of final grading and all required inspections have been
approved. Any other objects or physical features (e.g. drainage
swales) cannot be accepted as evidence of lot lines. It is the
responsibility of the homeowner to locate their own boundary lines.

Easements
Most lots have easements in favour of various public utilities so that
their lines may be installed. The appropriate utility should be
contacted before you dig for fencing, tree planting, flowerbeds, etc.
In most communities, the utility companies are pleased to stake the
location of their services at no expense to you.

Drainage
Early in the land development stage, general drainage patterns are
established, in principle, with municipal and other authorities. As
construction proceeds, the drainage system is studied and care
taken in the placement of the house on the lot. Often these grading
plans are altered, not in principle, but in detail.

There may be some variations between grading proposals and the

actual work carried out. Such modifications are not made without
good reason. For example, basement window wells are sometimes
installed to facilitate grading around the house. Even though a model

9
house may have been built with or without window wells, grading
conditions on any individual lot may require they be eliminated or
added.

It is common for water to collect inside a window well, especially

during heavy or blowing rains. This is temporary and the water will
soon dissipate. If earth washes down into the window well, it can
plug the drainpipe located below the stone in the well. Should the
drainpipe become plugged as a result of the homeowner’s
landscaping, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to have it corrected.

If window wells are required, it is imperative that they be kept free of

leaves and other debris that can interfere with the proper flow of
water to the footing drainage system. Failure to follow these
guidelines may cause water leakage at the window, and such
leakage would not be under warranty.

Lot drainage systems, such as swales (shallow valleys) and catch

basins, are designed to direct water away from the house. The
homeowner must maintain these systems. To ensure proper
drainage, leaves and other debris should be removed each spring
and fall; as should snow and ice in the early spring.

Your lot has been graded for proper drainage during a normal
rainfall. Heavy or prolonged rains may result in some standing water
(ponding in depressions) for a limited period of time when the soil is
saturated. Do not change the grading of the lot so as to cause a
drainage problem for neighbouring lots. We will repair drainage
problems on lots, due to faulty or incomplete grading. However, if
altered drainage is found to be the problem, we will not be
responsible unless the grade is returned to its original state.

The consulting engineers check the grade before and after sod is
placed. We will not be responsible for the lot grade after this final
inspection by the engineer. Please take note that a specific grading
plan is provided to the builder from the consulting engineers and
approved by the City, and the builder must follow this specific
grading plan.

Do not install a swimming pool until the Municipality assumes the

development. BEFORE installing a pool, check with the City to make
sure you can proceed and inquire about any subdivision
requirements.

10
If your neighbour changes his grading or executes landscaping plans
that impede the free flow of water from your lot, there are remedies
available. As this is a civil matter, a dispute of this nature is best
handled through the Municipality or your solicitor.
To direct rainwater away from the house, fill depressions caused by
soil compaction along the foundation walls.

Landscaping
We use the best quality sod to landscape your property. When laid,
the sod will be in a healthy state, however, it will require care and
attention. DO NOT walk on freshly laid sod. The topsoil will be soft
from watering and damage could result. This would be excluded
from the Statutory Warranty.

Note: It is essential that you water newly sodded or seeded areas

daily, for the first few weeks. Shallow watering results in a
shallow root system and can cause “burning.” Check with
your Municipality; watering restriction vary from area to area.

Do not cut grass too short—a two-inch height is recommended.

Semi-annual fertilizing and weed control is also recommended.
Grass may grow better in one area than in another, depending on:
• Exposure to sun, wind, and rain
• Drainage
• Soil type, care, and attention

When the snow begins to melt, do not allow snow or ice to remain on
a shaded area of your lawn; this could cause “winter kill.” Minor
settlement can occur over some areas of new lawns. To achieve an
even lawn, you may do a certain amount of re-tamping, top dressing,
or filling of such depressions to obtain a uniform surface.

When planning and installing planting beds:

• Do not interfere with the drainage system
• Grade planting beds away from your foundation wall
• Plant all shrubs and trees well clear of the house
If you have trees on your property you should immediately begin
a program of tree care. Check with your nursery.

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When laying sod, it is common to start from one end of the street,
working down towards the other. This is done to minimize the need
for future remedial work caused by abutting different grades, and to
reduce future drainage problems. As a result, some properties may
not yet have sod. Please be patient—we will try our best to sod your
lawn as soon as possible.

Walks and Driveways

Seasonal temperature and precipitation variations may cause cracks
in walks and driveways. Frost penetration may raise sections and
change the direction of surface drainage. Affected areas may return
to their original position in warm weather. These results of climatic
and other natural causes are beyond the builder’s control, in most
instances.

Note: Differential settlement is not covered under the warranty

program. Similarly, your driveway was designed and
constructed for use by passenger cars or light delivery
vehicles, not heavy trucks. The builder will not be
responsible for damage caused by excessive loads.

During the building process, the earth around the house is disturbed
and is likely to settle, especially when your car drives repeatedly over
it. To maintain an even stone or gravel driveway surface, it is
necessary to rake these materials into wheel ruts.

It is important to allow your driveway to settle before we pave it; this

will achieve the best results in the finished product. In new
developments, prior to acceptance by the Municipality, the developer
or road contractor may need to repair cracked or settled sidewalks
and road curb sections in the path of the driveway. For these
reasons, driveway paving (if called for in your specifications) may be
delayed.

Unless your agreement of Purchase and Sale specifies a paved

driveway, you will have a layer of gravel/sand on it. Minor settlement
of a gravel driveway is normal and any remedial work to smooth out
the driveway and fill in settlement areas, would be part of regular
homeowner maintenance.

12
It is important to protect your new asphalt, especially during hot
weather. Some tips to ensure its longevity include:
• To prevent indents in new asphalt, rest ladder supports on a
block of wood
• Put a wooden block under the kickstand of a motorcycle
• When parking a trailer of any kind on the driveway, make sure
the trailer hitch is supported on a good-size block of wood
• Wait at least three months before placing asphalt sealer on new
asphalt
• Fast stops and starts can ruin asphalt
• Engine oil and gasoline are very damaging to new driveways

Common asphalt surface problems include:

• Indentations or uneven areas
• Tire markings
• Flaking of surface chips
• Cracking at the edges, caused by expansion and contraction

Asphalt will last for many years given normal use and care, but it is
not indestructible, and periodic resealing is recommended.

Masonry
Mortar joints in brickwork are not entirely waterproof. Fine cracks
sometimes occur between the mortar and the brick. Do not build up
planting beds so as to cover any of the brickwork.

You may notice that the bottom course of brick at the top of the
foundation wall contains openings every few brick spaces (usually
round holes, or with the vertical mortar joint left out). These “weep
holes” should not be covered over or filled. They allow the passage
of the outside condensation or incidental moisture through the wall
face and over the base flashing.

Exterior Cladding – Siding

Factory finished sidings normally do not require any work or
repainting for many years. They can usually be kept clean by ”hosing
13
down” and/or some light scrubbing with a mild detergent. Vinyl siding
becomes very brittle in extremely cold temperatures and care should
be taken in high-traffic areas. Heat generated from a barbecue
placed too close to vinyl siding can cause distortion.

Siding is not nailed tight to the framework of the house, allowing for
expansion and contraction with daily and seasonal temperature
changes. You may hear popping in the early morning as the siding
heats up by the sun, following a cold night. This is a normal
occurrence and not cause for alarm.
On occasion, the corners and joints may become dislodged. These
can be reinstalled easily by pressing them back into position
underneath the lip of the siding. Failure to maintain these
corners/joints can cause the siding to be ripped off during high
winds. Should this occur, it is not under warranty. Your homeowner’s
insurance policy may cover this.

If the exterior of your new home is finished with stucco, hairline

cracks may appear in the finish coat after the drying and shrinking
process is complete. This condition is particularly noticeable in
trowel-finished stucco. Leave stucco for two years before apply a
brush-coat finish as a corrective measure, if necessary.

Exterior Polyurethane Moldings and Accents

We have chosen Polyurethane Products because of their resistance
to moisture, cracking, splitting, vermin, etc. This unique feature helps
keep the paint from blistering and peeling; it will not crack or splinter
when penetrated with fasteners. It is insect resistant and lightweight.

Your home may have an exterior pilaster, louvers, window accents,

and dormer accents. Once the products have been painted (with
good exterior paint), you can expect many years of low maintenance.

Painting
Depending on the time of year you take possession of your home,
the finish exterior painting may be incomplete. It will be finished as
per the specification sheet for your subdivision and home model.
Please note that steel lintels over the garages or over windows will
not be painted but left in their natural state.

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Fences
Should you wish to install a fence, hedge, or any boundary feature (if
permitted), it is advisable to call a qualified surveyor to locate your lot
lines. This will ensure that you do not encroach your neighbours’
property. Check with your Municipality that your fence is acceptable.
We do not stake out your property or provide boundary markings.

Wood Decking/Decks
Sundecks, verandas, and raised patios require regular care,
maintenance, and restoration because they are subject to foot traffic,
sand, grit, and exposure to the elements. Changes in colour or
fading over a period of time are, therefore, beyond the control of the
builder.

You may require a building permit to build a deck. Check with your
Municipality.
Call Before You Dig!
Utility companies provide a Locate service for all underground
services installed prior to and during the construction process (i.e.
telephone, cable and gas lines). It may take a week or more to get
this information, so call early. The Locate number in your
Municipality is 1-800-400-2255, and hydro is 745-4771.

Weather Stripping
To reduce air infiltration in winter, and dust and dirt in the summer,
check the weather stripping around doors annually. Many types of
weather stripping are available, some of which are adjustable.
Regardless of the type used, make sure that the seal is snug. Keep
weather stripping free from paint. Lubricate rubber or vinyl products,
such as your garage overhead door weather stripping, with
petroleum jelly or vinyl cleaner/conditioner to keep them pliable and
free from sticking to your door and removing the paint surface.

Outside Hose Connection

If the garden hose connection has a valve inside the house, you
must shut it off and drain it before winter, to prevent freezing and
possible bursting. For the same reasons, never leave a garden hose
connected during freezing weather. Ice forming in the hose can burst
the hose and the connecting plumbing. This is part of routine
homeowner maintenance and any repairs resulting from improper
use or maintenance is not covered under warranty.
15
Roof
The roof of your home should give you many years of service. Check
for loose, broken, or missing shingles following heavy windstorms as
this is considered extreme weather conditions and is not covered
under warranty. To prevent leakage and resulting damage to the
interior, make repairs as soon as possible. Shingles are under
warranty for workmanship, but storm damage is covered by your
homeowner’s insurance.

Since asphalt shingles are soft on warm days, you can easily
damage them by walking over them. To avoid damage, use care
when installing and erecting TV and CB aerials, and ensure
fastening devices are properly sealed to prevent leaks.

Minor variations in the shade of shingles are normal and further

reduced by weathering. They are not considered a deficiency under
the Ontario Building Code. The shade of asphalt roofing does not
affect durability.

You may notice slight variations in the roof’s level, caused by

puckering of the plywood or the raising of shingles between nails
(knows as “high nails”), when they expand. Again, this is not
considered a deficiency and will not affect the seal and durability of
your roof.

Gutters, Eavestroughs and Downspouts

Keep gutters, eaves troughs, and downspouts free of obstructions
such as leaves and paper. Surface particles from asphalt shingles,
washed down by rains, often settle in gutters and should be
removed. A spring and fall check is recommended; when eaves
troughs become clogged, they cannot function and water damage
can result.

Ice Dams on Roofs

Ice dams can form on the eaves of sloping roofs, causing water to
backup under the shingles and leak inside. Any resulting damage is
not covered under warranty. Melted water running down the roof can,
with rapidly falling temperature, freeze at the un-insulated overhang
of the roof. Clear the snow off the roof, particularly at the eaves, and
knock ice formations from the eaves and valley ends, taking care not
to damage the roofing.

16
If the damming persists, check the attic space ventilation to ensure
proper airflow from the eaves to the roof. Do not allow excessive ice
and snow to remain on the roof throughout the winter months.

Basement and Garage Walls

Basement and garage walls are subject to many stresses. The base
of the wall, being well below grade, maintains a fairly uniform
temperature, whereas the portion above grade is affected by
seasonal temperature variations. Such thermal changes cause
concrete and many other materials to expand and contract.

Since concrete shrinks as it cures and the foundation may shift as

the house settles, the builder cannot guarantee that foundation
cracks will not occur. To alleviate water leakages, we install the
“System Platen” membrane. The warranty does not require the
builder to repair a foundation crack within the Tarion measurement
tolerance, that does not leak.

Special Considerations
1. Cracks in the basement floor and walls are common and are not
considered structural defects.
2. Dampness of the walls or floors may occur in new construction
due to higher humidity levels and expelling of moisture and is
not considered a deficiency.
3. Leaks caused by improper landscaping installed by a
homeowner, or failure of the homeowner to maintain proper
grades are not covered by the Warranty.

Note: We guarantee that foundation cracks will be free from water

penetration for a period of two years. However, the builder
cannot be held liable for any damage caused to the
homeowner’s contents beyond the original finish, and we are
not responsible for damage to possessions left in the
basement. Do not store items against the basement walls or
directly on the floor.

In order to have problems rectified, homeowners must notify Cook

Homes, in writing, within the first year of possession.

17
Garage Floor
Because of the material’s nature, it is not possible to prevent
concrete garage floors from cracking due to shrinkage. This is a
common occurrence and does not signify faulty materials or
workmanship. Once the garage floor has cured, you may wish to
treat it with a concrete sealer made specifically for this purpose.

All concrete products are susceptible to salt and other road

materials, especially in winter. Remove slush and ice buildups from
behind tires prior to parking your car in the garage. Remove slush
and excess water from the garage floor on a regular basis during the
winter. Rinse off the garage floor and driveway as soon as possible,
and use a non-corrosive ice-clearing agent. We will not accept
responsibility for the breakdown of the concrete or concrete pitting
caused by salt, calcium, or other corrosive agents.

Overhead Doors
Your garage door is under warranty for a period of one year on parts
and labour. Each style of door has different limited warranties
against rust and factory paint peeling.
• The 8000 series Non-insulated door has a 10-year limited
warranty.
• The T-Gard/FCII Series R6 Insulated door has a 15-year limited
warranty.
• The 8300 Series R-11 Insulated door has a 15-year limited
warranty.
See the literature left for you by the overhead door supplier.

For years of optimum performance, you must properly maintain your

overhead door. For preventative maintenance:
• Oil rollers, bearings, and springs twice a year
• Check rollers and bearings for wear
• Check cables for excessive play and fraying
• Disconnect opener from door twice a year, ensuring the door is
not binding on anything or too heavy to lift by hand
• If door has been painted, lubricate the weather stripping with a
silicone-based lubricant—available at hardware stores.

18
Note: If you install your own overhead door opener, the door
warranty is voided immediately upon its installation. Only
overhead doors supplied and installed by the overhead door
supplier are covered under warranty.

Do not attempt to alter or adjust the door mechanism of overhead

garage doors. It is under considerable tension and can result in
serious personal injury. Call our service department should the
overhead garage door require adjustment.

Do not expect the garage door to be fully weather-stripped. Some air

circulation is required to minimize condensation and carbon
monoxide buildup.

Caution:
It is essential that carbon monoxide from the car exhaust not
enter the house. When you occupy your new home, ensure
that the walls and ceiling separating the house from the
garage area are properly sealed. It is important that the
weather stripping around the door between the house and
the garage area is in good repair. Also check that the drywall
tape is not peeled back (due to high moisture) and that the
caulking is still in good order.

Storm Doors
If you have an exterior steel door on your house, a storm door is not
necessary. If the exterior steel door is embellished with styrene
moulds, a storm door is not recommended. The most common
complaint once a storm door is installed is that the doorbell no longer
works. Be careful that you do not pierce the doorbell wire when
installing the door.

If no storm door is installed, you may notice that you cannot insert
your key into the lock. This is usually caused by moisture in the
locking mechanism. Do not force the key—it will break. Try the
following.
• Apply an automobile lock deicer
• Heat the key with a match or lighter before inserting into the lock
• Use a hair dryer or carefully blow air into the key hole area

19
During hot weather, the storm-door screen should be left partially
open to avoid build-up of heat that could cause the door to expand
and warp.

Window Screens
You can purchase screen material at most hardware stores, to
quickly and easily repair ripped screens on patio doors or windows.
A thin ‘spleen’ holds the screen in a track around the frame. This
spleen is available in different depths, so be sure to purchase the
correct size. You can also purchase special tools to install the
spleen.

Interior

Condensation, Relative Humidity, and Ventilation

Condensation of moisture on windows occurs when the temperature
is the same as or lower than the dew point of the air. It is a common
occurrence in winter. To correct this problem, it is important to
control the level of humidity in the home.

If early corrective measures are not taken, serious damage from

staining, rotting, and mould can result. The problem is more acute
during the first winter when the house is “drying out” (many of the
materials used in construction contain moisture that must be
dissipated).

Normal living contributes to high Relative Humidity (R.H.) in most

homes, particularly in new homes, because improved building
materials and practices produce tighter and better-insulated homes.

Humidity should be controlled so that little or no condensation

appears on the inside surface of windows. With double-glazing, this
still permits high R.H., except during the most severe weather.

20
The following table shows the maximum R.H. that can be tolerated if
condensation is to be avoided in cold weather.

Outside Air Temp. Outside Air Temp. Desirable Max. Inside

(Celsius) (Fahrenheit) R.H. (%) at Indoor Temp.
of 70F (21C)
-29 -20 20%

-24 -10 25%

-18 0 30%
-12 10 35%
-7 20 40%

Differences in water-vapour pressure affect the ability of water

vapour or moisture to move. For example, in an open concept home,
activities in the kitchen may result in higher than normal humidity in
adjacent rooms, or even in upper stairwell rooms.

It takes only 2.8 litres (5 pints) of moisture to raise the humidity in a

93 sq. metre (1,000 sq.ft.) house from 15% to 60%. Other items that
generate moisture are:
• Pets and aquariums
• Self-defrosting refrigerators
• House plants (can generate .48 litres/0.8 pints of moisture/day)
• Normal respiration and skin evaporation
• Showers and baths (baths generate .05 litres/0.1 pints of
moisture. Showers generate .23 litres/0.4 pints of moisture)
• Washing clothes for a family of four (generates 1.96 litres/3.5
pints of moisture)
• Drying clothes for a family of four, hung on an interior line
(generates 11.97/21.1 pints of moisture)
21
• Washing dishes and air drying for a family of four (generates .45
litres/0.8 pints of moisture a day)
• Dishwashers–steam escapes in the drying cycle
• Cooking with a gas stove generates the most moisture into the
air. (Cooking for a family of four generates 0.92 litres/1.6 pints of
moisture a day; a gas stove adds 1.24 litres/2.2 pints a day)
• Mopping a floor 7.4 m²/80 sq. ft. generates 1.09 litres/1.0 pints
of moisture

Excessive Humidity
Condensation on windows or other surfaces is only one of the
problems caused by excessive levels of humidity in the home.
Excessive humidity can cause:
• Mould to form on plaster
• Cupboards to smell musty
• Rooms to feel damp
• Condensation to form on cold water pipes, with water dripping
on to the floor or collecting within a wall or ceiling space
• Exterior paint to blister and peel off, if moisture penetrates
through walls and becomes trapped
• Condensation in the attic space, when moisture leaks upwards
through a break in a vapour barrier. This can cause ice to form
on the underside of the attic roof, which on melting, soaks
through the ceiling, giving the impression that the roof leaks
• Insulation to become saturated, causing it to lose its thermal
resistance/insulations value
Mould growth often starts in the corners of rooms and is frequently
due to poor air circulation causing pockets of stagnant air. There are
many sources and causes of mould infection, but germination
depends on damp conditions often caused by excessive humidity.

Ventilation is often the only effective means available to the

homeowner for removing moisture. Exhaust fans in the kitchen and
bathroom will draw off moisture from cooking and bathing. You will
probably need to run the ventilation and circulation fans continuously
during the first year, whenever windows are closed.

22
Although humidity indicators are available, you can simply use the
windows as a guide to maintaining proper R.H. within the house. As
soon as condensation occurs on inside window surfaces, reduce the
R.H by controlling the moisture sources or by increasing ventilation.

Window condensation is not a fault of construction. Living habits

are of prime importance: A well built and insulated home is and must
be regulated.

Basements frequently experience condensation in summer. In warm

weather, basement areas—particularly near the base of the walls, in
corners, and parts of the floor—are relatively cool due to surrounding
earth temperatures. When hot, humid air is allowed to enter, it will
seek out those cool areas and also cold water pipes, etc., and
condense. Where this problem persists, basement windows should
be kept open during dry weather and closed on hot humid days.

Control the Level of Humidity

If the level of humidity becomes excessive, the following steps can
be taken to control the level of relative humidity in the home.
• Purchase a “hygrometer” to monitor the relative humidity in your
home
• Use a dehumidifier or humidifier to control moisture and dryness
levels in your home. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s
instructions
• When cooking, run the kitchen fan - Water vapour is a bi-product
of combustion with a natural gas stove
• When taking a shower, keep the bathroom door closed and
ventilate the room by using the exhaust fan, or by opening a
window
• When doing laundry, consider running the main ventilation fan or
opening a window in the laundry room
• Keep all rooms, even if unoccupied, heated to a minimum of
10°C, as condensation will occur in unheated rooms
• Open a window (or windows) for a brief period to ventilate the
house each day
• Try to air out your home regularly
• Do not cover up any heating or air circulation outlets

23
• Ventilate the basement to avoid the formation of condensation,
especially during cold weather
• Whenever possible, leave window coverings open, i.e. drapes
and/or blinds
Cook Homes cannot accept responsibility for condensation
discomfort or damage. Frost on the windows during sudden drops in
temperature is considered normal but this will disappear if the
humidity in the house is correct and good ventilation practices are
maintained.

Basement Floors
Concrete is a water-based product that will dry out over time.
Surface pitting and superficial cracking will likely occur due to the
nature of the material. This does not reflect the strength or integrity
of your basement floor. Usually, cracking will start near underground
pipes.

Do not be alarmed if a white powder appears on some areas of the

walls or floor. In the curing process, salts in the concrete are carried
to the surface as moisture evaporates. This deposit can be readily
brushed off and will not affect the strength of the concrete. It should
cease following the curing of the concrete.

We strongly suggest that you do not paint or seal the basement floor
for a period of at least nine months to a year, to allow it to properly
cure. Should you choose to paint the floor at a later date, it should be
an alkali-resistant paint, of a type that permits continued curing of the
new floor.

Note: Your warranty does not cover deterioration caused by salt,

chemicals, mechanical implements, or other factors beyond
our control. Repaired areas may differ in colour from the
original installation. We will not replace concrete floors due
to pitting or cracking.

Floor Drains
Floor drains are designed to remove water that accidentally gets on
your floor, either from a foundation leak, or an overflowing laundry
tub or washer. Your house is fitted with a conventional, non-
automatic type of floor drain and trap. You may need to pour and fill
the trap with water from time to time, to maintain a seal and prevent

24
sewer gas from entering your house. Because the water will
evaporate over time, we recommend that you check monthly, to
ensure the water has not evaporated in the drainpipe.

Structural Frame
The structural lumber in your home contains moisture. Following
occupancy, and particularly during the first heating season,
shrinkage caused by “drying out” may occur. The results appear in a
variety of forms:
• Thin cracks or gaps appear between cabinets, countertops, or
vanities and the walls
• Minor joints open at door and window trim, baseboards, walls,
etc.
• Fireplace mantels may shrink slightly and separate from the wall
or at joints
• Wood flooring opens between individual pieces or settles from
the baseboards at walls or under door jambs and trim
• Squeaks develop in floor underlay, wood flooring, and stair
treads
• Small gaps show between stairs or stair moldings and the walls
• Drywall corners may show hairline cracks

We will repair these items, if excessive or abnormal, as necessary

during your Year End Repair period. Although these types of service
issues may be annoying, these are not major structural problems.

Millwork and Trim

Shrinkage will affect the interior wood trim and you may notice that
some joints at the corners of windows, door, and baseboards will
open slightly. These are normal occurrences and can be remedied
with wood putty, plastic wood, coloured putty sticks, or similar
products when you redecorate.

Shrinkage also occurs at the edge of the stair stringer and the wall.
This is a normal occurrence and can be repaired with a bead of
interior caulking.

25
Drywall
The interior walls or ceilings of your house are finished with drywall
(gypsum wallboard). Cracks may appear over doors, windows, and
archways due to shrinking of the larger-sized wood members behind
the drywall. Such cracking is usually minor and rarely serious.

Small defects or “nail pops” may appear near or at the joints of

adjacent sheets and at other nail or screw locations. They too, relate
to shrinking of the supporting wood frame.

Our Customer Care Technician will repair these cracks and nail pops
once, within your first year of occupancy during your Year End
Repair Period. Please take note that we DO NOT REPAINT these
drywall repairs. It is therefore recommended that you do not decorate
your walls with other paint colours, wallpaper, etc., as we cannot
return the repaired walls to their decorative state.

Insulation
Today’s homes are insulated to meet Ontario Building Code
standards. Particular attention is also given to provide air-vapour
barriers to the room side of the insulation - but no house is
completely draft-free. On a strong windy day, the pressure
differential between the inside air and the outside air may force air in
through even the smallest of openings, thereby causing a draft. This
is not a defect.

You can purchase draft protectors at your local hardware store and
install them behind electrical outlets and switches to minimize drafts.
Also, check that the attic insulation, blown in during construction, has
not been blown back from the walls by the wind. This is easily
rectified by pushing the insulation back into the cavity space that it
was blown away from.

There will be visible light at the vents around the house (not to be
confused with missing or inadequate insulation). These vents must
be left open for proper attic ventilation and air circulation.

Windows
During cold weather, it may appear that there are drafts around
windows that are adequately glazed, fitted, and weather-stripped.
With some possible exceptions such as extreme wind conditions, the
draft felt may be due to vertical air movement over the face of the

26
window. This is convection: warm air rising and cooler air
descending.

You may also feel a draft when sitting or standing close to a window.
This chill may be due to heat radiating from your body to the
relatively colder surface of the window.

As mentioned, excess humidity in the air causes frost and

condensation on the windows, even on double-glazed windows. To
reduce this, please follow the recommendations in “Controlling the
Level of Humidity.”

We recommend using a silicone lubricant, petroleum jelly, or a bar of

soap on weather-stripping and tracks of windows. To allow drainage,
keep the holes clean on horizontal sliding windows (with weep holes
to the outside of the bottom of the track or frame).

Thermopane windows are guaranteed against seal failure (film

formation or dust collection between the interior glass surface) for a
period of ten years—one year from the date of closing under Cook
Homes’ warranty, and a further nine years under the manufacturer’s
warranty (glass only—parts and labour are the purchaser’s
responsibility). Glass breakage for reasons other than seal failures is
the homeowner’s responsibility.

Fittings on windows are subject to weather conditions and general

wear and tear.

Doors
All doors, especially exterior doors, are exposed to a variety of
climatic conditions, including inside humidity extremes, and are
subject to dimensional variations and warping. Doors tend to swell in
summer and shrink in winter. Do not hastily adjust doors by planing
or cutting, as the condition will usually stabilize. With some types of
wood doors, warping is to be expected (variations up to ¼” out of
plane, in any direction of the door, are considered normal). Weather-
stripping is often the best solution.

Hardware
The original finish on exterior locks and door handles will wear with
normal use. It is normal for the protective finish on the exterior
hardware to deteriorate after exposure to the elements and extensive

27
use. We will not be responsible for the replacement of any hardware
if this happens. As this occurs you may wish to remove the rust or
discoloration from the finish with a mild scouring powder. Once you
obtain a uniform appearance, you may leave the metal untreated for
a naturally weathered appearance, or polish it using a silverware-
cleansing compound. Follow this with a coat of clear lacquer, which
should produce a like-new appearance.

Note: The finish is not under warranty on brass hardware if it

becomes pitted.

Provided commonly used privacy sets are installed, you can unlock
bathroom doors from the outside by pushing any small pick-like
instrument, such as a 2” finish nail, into the hole in the centre of the
knob, or by rotating a slotted type screwdriver.

It is not necessary to use polishing compounds on interior hardware.

Wipe them occasionally with a damp cloth and polish with a soft dry
cloth.

To ensure continued operation, lubricate locks periodically.

1. For keyed exterior, blow powdered graphite into the keyhole
and on the latch bolts.
2. For interior “passage sets,” a few drops of sewing machine
or similar light oil, placed on the latch bolt, will suffice.

Railings
Metal stairway railings or banisters will rust if the protective finish is
scratched. Avoid using abrasive cleaners; wipe them with a cloth
using as little water as possible. Regular washing with a damp cloth
can easily keep vinyl cap covers, used on metal railings, clean. You
can maintain natural wood railings by using wood cleaning products.
Different woods accept stain differently and as such, we will not be
responsible for the colour or consistency of the finished product.

Counter Tops
To ensure the long-lasting beauty of your plastic laminate
countertops, the following is recommended.
• Do not place hot pans or activated electrical appliances on
laminated surfaces; use protective insulating pads

28
• Never use abrasive cleaners or steel wool on counters
• Do not leave household bleach on the surface of counters
• Do not use the surface as an ashtray or cutting board
• Avoid a concentration of water or wet cloths at or near the
junction of the countertop and backsplash or other joints.
Excessive standing water on counters may cause the laminate
to heave. This is not covered under warranty
• Clean with a damp soapy cloth; for stubborn stains use a
household solvent, rinsing thoroughly with clear water, followed
by wiping with a dry cloth
• Polish occasionally with glass wax, or liquid car polish. This will
mask superficial scratches

Manufactured Marble
Sinks made of manufactured marble are durable, but require the
same general care as for plastic laminates. As with any highly
polished surface, avoid the use of abrasive cleaners and most
chemical preparations.

Cabinets
Treat your kitchen cabinets as you would any fine piece of furniture.
The wood grain in cabinets is natural and will not be exactly the
same in each and every door, as no tree is consistent; therefore, the
patterns you see are unique to your cabinets. Doors and drawer
fronts will not be replaced due to different wood grains.

Check that hinges are not loose. Periodically, check all screws for
tightness but do not tighten so much as to split the wood. If the
hinges squeak, use a lubricant to rectify the problem, being careful
not to get any on the wood or laminate surfaces.

Our kitchen cabinet suppliers use the most technically advanced

equipment available, to produce cabinets of the highest aesthetic
standards. They use quality finishes and coatings to improve fade
resistance, consistent colour matching, and excellent durability.
However, as with wood grain patterns, wood colours may vary from
piece to piece; therefore, colour variances can occur even though
the stain has been applied evenly.

29
We recommend you wipe your cabinets down with only a damp
cloth. Dry immediately. Do not use cleaning products as they may
stain or fade the finish. Grease splatters should be wiped off
immediately. Naphtha spray waxes are not recommended, as their
reaction to moisture will turn some surface finishes milky. Good
lemon oil is recommended following manufacturer’s specifications to
remove left-on splatters.

Small scratches and chips in your doors can happen during shipping
and installation, or everyday use in your kitchen. We try out best to
ensure, upon completion of the installation, that all chips and
scratches are restored.

Marble, Granite, Slate

When properly maintained, marble, granite, and slate products will
provide many years of service. They are easy to maintain with an
occasional damp mopping of mild soap and water, and should not be
exposed to excessive water. To protect the finish of marble, granite,
and slate floors and counter tops, apply a sealer as recommended
by the supplier.

Marble, granite, and slate floors or counter tops may crack or chip if
heavy objects fall on them.

30
Furnace Heating, Air Conditioners, and HRV Systems
Furnaces
When the heating system of your home was selected, the rated
capacity was checked to ensure that the house could be heated to a
comfortable temperature, taking into account climatic conditions
common to our Canadian climate and local communities.

On taking possession of your home, check the sticker attached to the

furnace for the emergency number to call in the event of a
breakdown. Additional help is given in the equipment manufacturer’s
literature.

Heating equipment can be maintained at maximum efficiency

through regular inspections, according to the manufacturer’s
specifications. Your new furnace comes with a five-year parts
warranty and a one-year labour warranty. Your heating equipment
supplier can give you maintenance contracts.

The controls on automatic heating systems may occasionally fail.

Usually, a simple adjustment is all that is required. However, unless
you are technically qualified, please rely on skilled help to make the
adjustment, as any tampering will void your warranties. It is strongly
recommended that a licensed technician perform an annual
maintenance check on your equipment.

If your furnace or air conditioner is not working properly or fails to

start:
• Be sure the switch is on
• Check the fuse or circuit breaker panel for tripped breakers
• Review the operating procedures in your furnace manual
• Check the thermostat setting. The furnace will not operate
unless the setting is higher than room temperature and is
switched to either the heating or cooling function
• Call for service if none of the above starts your equipment

To ensure peak performance of your equipment, you should clean or

replace your furnace filter on a monthly basis. Dirty filters restrict the
supply of return air essential for efficient operation. For optimum
performance, keep heating outlets and cold air returns (registers)

31
free of airflow obstructions such as carpets, furniture, etc. Ensure
that the fan motor and fan units are oiled twice a year, or as per the
manufacturer’s instructions specifically for your furnace.

If you do not have a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV), you may

require a humidifier to increase or turn on the ventilation fan, in order
to control indoor humidity. If a furnace humidifier is installed, you
must check it frequently in winter to ensure that the correct water
level is maintained and the reservoir and plates are clean. Power
humidifiers require similar attention.

Because of salt deposits from the water supply in this area,

humidifier plates deteriorate quickly. Replace plates when they no
longer effectively hold water. If the relative humidity in your home is
excessive in winter, causing condensation on windows, etc., it may
be advisable to shut off the humidifier. See section on condensation.

Some homes will have an HRV System installed. This type of

ventilation/filtration system allows a constant source of fresh, filtered,
outdoor (oxygenated) air to flow though your home. It allows
pollutants that are not eliminated by filtration to escape the home,
and controls excess humidity during the cold seasons. It also helps
eliminate basement odors in the summer.

Filters on your HRV System need to be cleaned every two months.

To clean your HRV System filters:
1. Remove the filters and place in a laundry tub.
2. Clean the filters, using clear water.
3. Let drip-dry for approximately one hour, and then return to unit.

Cracking or snapping noises may occur in the heating system. This

means the pipes and other metal components of the distribution
system are expanding or contracting with temperature changes.
Such noises, particularly common on start-up, are to be expected
and do not influence the performance of the system.

All the controls for your furnace are powered by electricity. A switch,
located near the furnace or the bottom of the basement stairs, shuts
off this power supply. You should know where this switch is in case
of severe basement flooding or other unusual situations. Make sure it
is clearly marked so that it will not be confused with a light switch

32
and turned off in error. Also, point out to all your family members so
they too, know where it is and what it is.

The heating system should be balanced to ensure that enough heat

gets to all the rooms before the furnace turns off through its regular
cycle. This is a personal preference, not a Building Code
requirement. There are vanes in each heat register that can be
opened or closed. It may take a little time to make sure that the flow
is right for every location, but once it is set it should not need to be
changed.

If a contractor other than the original installs an accessory or

additional equipment, such as an air conditioner, humidifier,
electronic air cleaner, or thermostat, it could void your furnace
warranty. When any of the above is installed, ensure that it is by a
reputable and qualified contractor.

Air Conditioning
If your house has a Central Air Conditioning System, the following
will help you get the maximum benefit from it.

Registers
The registers throughout your home help to regulate the flow of air
and maintain the required temperature. By opening and closing the
registers and dampers, you can regulate the amount of cooling that
enters a room. Once these are adjusted, they will work with the
thermostat to maintain the proper temperature.

We do not advise you to close registers and room doors in an effort

to reduce cooling costs. If you have a combined cooling and warm-
air heating system, the same resisters and dampers are used to
regulate the flow of air to all rooms.

Your home has at least one return air register; many have more than
one. Neither the returns nor the registers should ever be blocked by
furniture, drapes, or any other objects.

Filters
Most central air-conditioning systems have an air filter to help keep
your home clean. The instruction manual for your cooling system will
tell you the location of the filter and how to clean it.

33
I
nsulation
Your home has been insulated so that you can regulate the inside
temperature in a cost-effective manner. Open doors, windows, along
with clogged filters, can negate the effective operation of your
heating or cooling systems.

Annual Inspections
Your system should be checked and cleaned by a professional.
Please check your operating instruction manual for frequency of this
care.

Plumbing
Your home has been equipped with plumbing fixtures and piping
manufactured to provide lengthy service under normal conditions
and with proper care.

Sinks
If a blockage is noticed in your sink, check other drains in the house
to determine whether the main waste drain is blocked. If only one
sink is blocked then you know the problem is localized.

To free up the sink, block the overflow vent, remove the stopper and
use a plunger. Any particles drawn up should be removed. Continue
plunging until all debris is removed. If this does not work, remove the
water from the drain and try a chemical cleaner. When using a
chemical cleaner, be sure to read the instructions carefully, use
rubber gloves, and protect your eyes.

Toilets
The Ontario Building Code requires that 6L toilets be installed in all
new homes to reduce the amount of water and pollution control
costs.

How does your low consumption toilet work?

Gravity toilets are most common in new homes. Older gravity tank
toilets rely on a high volume of water to flush properly (up to 25L/5.5
to 7.5 gallons per flush).

34
The newer 6L (1.2 gallons) low-consumption gravity tank toilets have
a redesigned bowl to enhance the siphoning action that serves to
pull the water out of the bowl. Water is forced through a trap that
curves down, then up, like an elbow. Water fills the bowl to keep
gasses from entering the house.

Refer to the following table to enhance the performance of your toilet

and ensure its longevity.

“The Rules of the Bathroom”

Don’t Do
X Flush dental floss v Flush an appropriate
amount of toilet paper
X Flush Q-Tips or v Clean the bowl regularly
toothpicks using vinegar
X Flush paper towel
X Flush grease or oil
X Flush biodegradable Your toilet is
products such as baby NOT a garbage disposal
wipes
X Flush feminine products
X Use chlorine or blue
pucks in the tank or bowl
X Use your toilet as a
wastebasket. Put
Kleenex or trash in the
garbage

35
Plugged Drains
Newer toilets that conserve water resources are not as efficient as
older toilets. At times, two flushes may be required to clear toilets of
debris. You may find that if you hold the flush handle in the down
position during the flush, more water will be available, enabling the
toilet to clear better.

Most blockages in plumbing drains, including toilets, are

progressive—they begin slowly and get worse over time until the
drain is completely blocked. To avoid clogged drains, use a plunger
at the first sign of a slow drain. This simple remedial step will prevent
most serious drain blockages. You can purchase a plunger at your
local hardware store.

Plumbing Fixtures
Care and Cleaning
The smooth glossy surfaces on your plumbing fixtures should be
protected against harsh abrasive cleaners, which will in time, wear
through the surface, making them dull and porous. Steel pads and
some strong cleaners can cause irreparable damage. Do not use
aggressive bathroom tile and toilet bowl cleaners, or chlorine or
blue pucks in the tank, they cause the flappers and mechanics
of the toilet to disintegrate. Never use abrasive scouring powders
or pads on your toilet seat. Some chemicals and cosmetics may
cause damage to the seat’s finish.

To get rid of soap scum on chrome faucets and fixtures, use white
wine vinegar.
1. Soak a paper towel in the vinegar.
2. Squeeze out the excess.
3. Wrap the paper towel around the chrome and let stand for 10
minutes.
4. Remove and buff the chrome with a dry soft cloth.

Vinegar also helps unclog sink drains safer than chemicals.

36
Note: Do not use this method on brass or coloured fixtures. Clean
all brass and finishes other than chrome with warm soapy
water, and dry with a soft cotton cloth. If heavy cleaning is
required, use a mild liquid detergent, clear liquid glass
cleaner, or non-acidic, non-abrasive, gentle liquid polishers.
Ensure you rinse well and dry with a soft cloth.

Avoid scraping surfaces with metal utensils. Even a stainless steel

sink can be damaged by careless use.

Do not use plumbing fixtures, such as sinks, as receptacles for

photographic or developing solutions. The developer stains are
permanent and cannot be removed.

Never step in the bathtub with your shoes on. The soles of shoes
carry gritty particles, which scratch the enamel. Exercise care in
using a hand held shower, if installed, which can damage the tub if
dropped.

Acrylic Bath Products

Bath oils may be used in whirlpools, provided that a suitable
whirlpool cleaner is used occasionally to clean water pipes, etc. A
product called ‘HG WHIRLPOOL CLEANER’ works well for this
purpose.

When using a cleaner:

1. Put water into the tub to cover the jets.
2. Add the cleaner, turn on the system, and let it run through its
cycle.
3. When the system shuts off, let it sit for a few hours with the
chemicals still in the water.
4. Start the system again, let it run through the cycle, and then
drain the water. Repeat if required.

Bath oils can be used in air tubs if it is a ‘Tomlin’ product. Tomlin

uses steel check valves in their air systems that reduce the amount
of water that can circulate back into the air lines. Regular cleaning
with the Whirlpool Cleaner will maintain the system.

37
Once a corner tub has been installed (with removable skirt), do not
apply excess weight to the top of the front deck, as there is no extra
support in this area. This does not apply where tile or marble has
been installed.

To maintain a gloss finished on acrylic products, apply ‘Gel Gloss’

occasionally. Use caution—‘Gel Gloss’ applied to the bottom of the
tub can make it very slippery.

Do not use abrasive cleaners to clean any acrylic surface, as it will

mark the surface of the acrylic.

Note: There is a 2-year limited warranty on air blowers.

There is a 10-year warranty on acrylic finishes.

Shower Doors
Use a rubber (not nylon) squeegee, or a soft cloth to clean and
maintain glass panels.

Cultured Marble Wall Panels, Tub Decks, and Vanity Tops

Do not expose walls, shower stalls, marble sinks, or the bowl and
drain area of the sink, to straight hot water. Excessive heat may
graze or crack the surface finish. Use ‘Gel Gloss’ to maintain a gloss
finish on vanity tops.

Faucet Repairs
Turn faucet handles just enough to stop the flow of water. Forcing
them can cut the washers, causing drips and leaks. Noisy faucets
are frequently due to loose washers.

To replace a washer:
1. First, close the main water valve (usually located near the water
meter on municipal systems), as this controls both hot and cold
water lines.
2. Once the supply of water is stopped, lift the cap from the top of
the “tap” handle and remove the screw from the top of the shaft
exposed inside.
3. If it is not threaded, carefully remove the handle by forcing it
straight up.

38
4. Unscrew the exposed stem assembly bushing, which will allow
the entire stem assembly to be removed.
5. At the base of this assembly you will find a rubber washer held
in place by a round-headed screw. Remove this screw and
replace the washer with one of the same size and type.
6. While the assembly is loose, inspect the rubber “O” ring located
on the stem body. Replace this ring if necessary.

Note: Where a plumbing installation includes valves for individual

fixtures, it is only necessary to close the valve to the fixture
being repaired before replacing washers.

If you do not have the proper tools, or if you are not mechanically
inclined, do not attempt these repairs; contact a plumber or
handyman. Washer replacement is part of the homeowner’s
maintenance.

Hot Water Tank

The rental agreement for the hot water tanks that are installed in
your new home is between you (the homeowner) and either
Kitchener Utilities for Kitchener Residences and Union Energy for
Waterloo Residences. Should you experience any problems with the
hot water tank, please call the appropriate phone number that is
provided directly on your hot water tank unit.

The principal causes of tank lining damage are hard water and
overheating. If intensely hot water is needed for special purposes, be
sure to reset the tank dial to normal when done. Turn the water
temperature down, or switch off the tank before going on vacation.

Most electric tanks have a top and bottom element. Reset buttons
and adjustable temperature settings can be found under the cover
plates at those locations. Be careful, when making adjustments, not
to contact adjacent wire ends on terminals located near the
temperature setting screw. Should the tank cease to function (no hot
water), check the fuse or breaker panel before calling a plumber or
electrician, or in the case of a rented tank, the appropriate utility or
fuel supplier.

If cold water is clear but hot water discoloured, the probable cause is
sediment at the bottom of the tank. This sediment has an insulating
effect, especially with immersion type elements, causing the heaters

39
to operate longer than necessary with a consequent increase in
energy consumption and cost.

Every hot water storage tank should be equipped with a pressure

relief valve at the top of the tank. This is a safety device designed to
open and relieve pressure, should the water pressure in the tank
exceed its rated working pressure. Do not tamper with it.

Sump Pumps
Our municipalities require that your new home be equipped with a
sump pit and pump. A sump pit is a large container positioned below
the basement floor level and can be connected to the weeping tile
around the foundation. This allows the water from the weeping tile to
enter into the pit. The pump then discharges into the storm sewer or
to the exterior where the surface drainage will carry it away from the
house.

Note: Do not stack anything on the top of the control arm or near
the pit.

Keep the sump pump outlet plugged in at all times and ensure
proper operation of the pump. If the sump pump is not working, your
basement has the potential to flood as the ground water will not be
carried away from the house and start backing up through your
basement floor. You can test the operation of your sump pump by
simply pouring water directly into the pit until it reaches the float level
and the pump should automatically come on and start to pump the
water up the pipe and away from the house. In the event of a pump
failure, please contact our Customer Care Department for further
assistance.

Ceramic Wall Tiles

Shower and tub enclosures should never be used without a shower
curtain or door to prevent water running onto the bathroom floor. If a
separation occurs between the bathtub and the wall tiles, or in the
grouted joints of the tile, it is probably caused by shrinkage or by the
weight of water in the filled tub. This gap should be filled immediately
with tub sealer or caulking compound. Leaving the gap may cause
serious water damage.

40
Check caulking and grouting regularly. It is the homeowner’s
responsibility to re-caulk the tub and shower tiles every year to
ensure years of problem free use.

Ceramic wall tiles are easily cleaned and should be wiped after every
shower to maintain the shine, and eliminate soap and water spots.

Note: Tiles and grout are waterproof, but the backing material is
water-resistant. If cracks form in the grout, as happens with
normal settling, water can seep past the grout and onto the
drywall behind. If this continues uncorrected, the drywall will
break down to the point that the tiles fall off the wall. This is
not under warranty. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to
ensure that any cracks in the grout are repaired immediately.

Caulking
Prior to moving into your new home, the tub and tile were caulked
with a waterproof sealant. This must also be kept in good condition.
Caulking and grouting are materials that shrink, dry, or crack, and
therefore, are not under warranty. These items should be included in
your home maintenance, along with any washers or materials that
tend to wear out over time. If caulking and grouting go unattended,
leakage can damage the walls or ceiling. This is not covered under
our warranty policy.

Electrical System
In most homes, one of your light switches in the living room area will
control your wall receptacles so that a table lamp can be plugged in
and operated from this switch. Many advanced electrical features are
included in your home and rarely will you have any problems with
them. When electrical outlets do fail, it usually means that a circuit
breaker has tripped. Frequent causes are:
• An overloaded circuit
• Short circuits from worn appliance cords
• Defective plug connections
• The “start-up load” of some electric motors (Motors require more
current to start than to maintain them in operation)

Before calling an electrician, check your circuit breaker panel. We

recommend you locate this panel and identify all circuits, in writing,
41
on the panel soon after moving in and before an emergency occurs.
The major circuits are identified, but not all lights and receptacles.
Take a few moments and have someone help you to label the panel
by turning the breakers on and off.

Note: A circuit can serve more than one room or floor, and cover
both the inside and outside lights and outlets.

Often a ‘tripped’ breaker will appear to be in the “on” position, but

close examination will reveal that it is in fact, not completely in the
“on” position. Completely switch the breaker to the “off” position, and
then return it to “on,” to reset the breaker.

If the breakers for the same circuit fail repeatedly, it is essential to

locate the cause. If it is the result of a short circuit, as opposed to an
appliance overload, an electrician should do the necessary repairs.

If your stove does not operate, check the fuses in the stove and the
main circuit breaker. Look for stove fuse locations in the
manufacturer’s manual.

Many fires occur each year from misuse of electrical equipment.

Avoid alterations to your wiring by amateurs; contact an electrician or
recognized appliance service agent.

Do not use bulbs larger than 60 watts in any fixture where the bulb is
enclosed. Rooms without ceiling fixtures usually have a wall
receptacle for a lamp that can be operated by a switch located near
the room entrance.

Do not handle cords or fuses, or attempt to plug in appliances when

your hands are wet or if you are standing on a wet surface; never
touch anything electrical when you are in a tub or shower.

Dishwasher rough-ins consist of a wire dropped below the

dishwasher opening into the basement and run to the panel only. A
breaker is not supplied, nor is the wire hooked into the panel.

Any tampering or altering of the existing electrical wiring will void any
warranty provided by Cook Homes Limited and their electrical
contractor.

42
Circuit Breakers
Circuit breakers protect the electrical wiring and equipment in your
home. They are the safety valves of your home’s electrical system.
Every home has a master circuit breaker, which is generally larger
and separate from the other breakers on the panel. When the master
circuit breaker is tripped, the electricity to the whole house is cut off.

Power Failures
In the case of a complete power failure, check with your neighbours
to determine if they have power. If they are also without power, call
you local utility. If the power failure affects only your house, check
the master switch and circuit breaker. If you cannot find the problem,
call an electrician. The chances are that a short circuit needs to be
fixed before it causes a fire .

Ground Fault Interrupter

The Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) is a safety feature that is
mandatory for bathrooms and exterior electrical receptacles. One
GFI is connected to all bathrooms and may also be connected to the
exterior receptacles. Its function is to interrupt the electrical power in
the event of exposure to water. A test and reset button may be on
one of the washroom receptacles, or there may be a separate
breaker on the electrical panel with a GFI function.

If the GFI is a separate breaker in the electrical panel, there is an

“on,” “neutral,” and “off” position. When tripped, the breaker will go to
the central neutral position. To reset a tripped breaker, move the
breaker all the way to the “off” position and all the way to the “on”
position.

If your home is equipped with a whirlpool, the GFI protection is

located either on the bathroom receptacle, or it may be located
beside the main panel as an additional GFI receptacle marked for
whirlpool use.

Caution:
Do not plug additional devices into this receptacle as it may
overload the circuit.

43
Range Hoods and Exhaust Fans
For efficient range hood operation, clean the grease filter frequently.
Potential fire hazards are created by grease accumulation on filters.
Wash filters periodically in a mild detergent solution and dry
thoroughly.

Replace charcoal filters, and clean and oil fan motors according to
the manufacturer’s servicing instructions. Many exhaust fans,
however, have sealed systems and do not require lubrication.

Depending on the location of the exhaust damper at the exterior, you

may experience noise as the flaps of the damper get caught by the
wind. This is normal and not cause for concern. Periodically, check
the condition of the exterior flapper to ensure that it is in good
condition and not being used as a bird nest. Also check the vent for
the clothes dryer to ensure that it is not plugged with dryer lint.

Central Vac/Phone Outlets/Cable

When installing a vacuum system, you must review the installation
with a qualified installer. We provide the rough in only, consisting of
tube drops to the basement area.

All phone and cable outlets are roughed in only, with the wire strictly
inside the wall. There are no connections done unless requested
prior to the house closing. If the homeowner finishes the jacks on
these rough-ins, any warranty provided is void.

Floors and Floor Finishes

Hardwood
Depending upon humidity levels within your home, hardwood flooring
can expand and contract. Hardwood flooring may separate in winter
and cup in summer. A humidifier in winter and a dehumidifier in
summer may be necessary to minimize these effects. Controlling the
humidity levels is the homeowner’s responsibility.

Most hardwood flooring has been sealed with urethane or varnish

that only requires damp cleaning with a solution of vinegar and
water. Excessive water and harsh detergents are not
recommended.

44
Use mats at all exterior doors, to protect flooring, especially
hardwood, from dirt and grit. Felt or vinyl pads should be placed
under all furniture, especially chair legs, to prevent scuffing or
scratching of hardwood.

Vinyl
Composite flooring such as vinyl should last for years if reasonable
care is taken. Extreme caution should be used when installing
appliances on top of a vinyl floor, as the manufacturer’s warranty
does not cover any resulting damage.

Heavy padding should be placed under appliances while they are

being set in place, and should be re-used when appliances are being
shifted for cleaning purposes.

It is recommended that footwear be changed when entering your

home as oils from asphalt, especially in warm temperatures, may be
tracked onto a vinyl floor, which can result in discolouration. In
addition, some types of high-heeled shoes may leave indentations.

This discolouration cannot be repaired and is not covered under your

warranty. Placing mats, especially if they are rubber backed, on a
vinyl floor is not advised as they may produce discolouration. For
similar reasons, pet urine should be wiped up immediately.

Wash vinyl flooring with moderate amounts of warm water and a mild
detergent; harsh cleaners are not required. Stubborn marks can
usually be removed with a damp cloth and a scouring agent. Steel
wool or cleaning fluids are not recommended. Excessive use of
water should be avoided, especially near the vinyl floor edge, as
deterioration of the backing may result.

The caulking between a vinyl floor and a tub or shower base should
be maintained in good condition. Damage to vinyl floors from leaking
appliances is not under warranty.

The seams between sheets of flooring underlay sometimes can

show through resilient flooring. No positive method of preventing
such occurrences is known, despite flooring contractors’ attempts to
attain a level surface using appropriate fillers. To prevent surface dirt
from accumulating, an appropriate vinyl seam sealer can be used to
seal repairs or minor cuts in this type of flooring.

45
Ceramic Floor Tiles
This type of tile is easy to maintain and needs only to be wiped down
occasionally with a damp cloth. Do not use excessive water when
cleaning ceramic floor. A mild solution of soap and water is normally
adequate.

Grout between ceramic tiles is not stain resistant. It is recommended

that an appropriate sealer be applied for ease of maintenance.

Ceramic floor tile is not a resilient material. Use care when moving
heavy appliances; if dropped, they may crack ceramic tiles.

You will be provided with some replacement tiles for every tiled area.
Keep them in a safe place for future use, if necessary.

Cook Homes cannot always guarantee a perfect match in dye lot.

Cracked tiles are subject to our inspection and assessment; tiles
chipped due to abnormal usage are not covered under warranty.
Caulking and grouting are part of the homeowner’s maintenance.

Carpets
Carpeting is relatively easy to care for. Follow these helpful hints.
• To prevent spots and stains, immediately clean up spills
• Oils from bare feet cause carpet fibres to crush in high traffic
areas
• Maintain heavy traffic areas daily to pick up surface dirt and lint
• Vacuum thoroughly each week with an effective vacuum cleaner
• To remove oily film on carpet fibres, clean the surface
seasonally
• To maintain appearance and performance, have your carpets
professionally cleaned every 1-2 years

There can be colour variations with some of the longer or plusher

carpet piles. In most cases, this is just the nap brushed down by
normal usage. By running your hand along the carpet to raise the
nap again, the colour variation will usually disappear. Again this is
not a fault of the carpet but a result of the way the nap falls as you
walk on it and the angle the light strikes it. Vacuuming can help
alleviate this.

46
Gas Fireplaces
A gas fireplace is a convenient and useful feature. Please review the
manufacturer’s instructions in order to safeguard the efficiency,
safety, and longevity of your gas fireplace unit. Familiarize yourself
with the location of the supply line shut-off valve, as you may wish to
turn off the pilot light during warm-weather months. Remove your
owner’s manual from beneath your fireplace and store it in a safe
place for future reference. Your fireplace comes equipped with a
separate switch for a fan operation. The fan does not require to be
used during operation and it’s only function is to blow hot air out of
the vents located at the top of the fireplace unit. If you choose to use
the fan, simply turn the fireplace on – then turn the fan switch on.
The fan is heat generated and will take approximately 20 minutes to
turn itself on as it will only come on when the fireplace reaches a
certain temperature. There is a speed control dial for the fan
operation located underneath the fireplace unit.

Important:
A qualified installer, service agency, or your gas supplier must
perform service and installations.

Always refer to your owner’s manual before cleaning glass, metal

cabinet, logs, or fan.

To clean brass trims, use lemon oil or pledge.

Do not remove the metal plate on the chain from below your
fireplace. This rating plate belongs to and is a part of your fireplace.

It is recommended that your burn your new fireplace for at least six
hours the first time you use it. If an optional fan kit has been
installed, place fan in the OFF position during this time.

Provide ventilation by opening windows and doors for the initial

starting of the new appliance, as some curing of hot surfaces will
take place, producing a noticeable odour. This is due to the curing of
the paint and any undetected oil from the manufacturing process.
This will dissipate after the first hour or so of operation. Some
varnish and stains on wood mantels can give off odors.

47
It is normal for fireplaces fabricated of steel to give off some
expansion and/or contraction noises during the start up or cool down
cycle.

Under no circumstances should this fireplace be modified. Parts

removed for servicing should be replaced prior to operating this
fireplace again.

Keep control compartments, burner, and air passages in this

fireplace free and clean of dust and lint.

Make sure that the gas valve and pilot are turned off before you
attempt to clean this fireplace.

The venting system of this fireplace should be checked at least once

a year and if needed, should be cleaned.

Keep the area around your fireplace clear of combustible materials,

gasoline, and any other flammable vapour and liquids.

This fireplace should not be used as a drying rack for clothing nor
should Christmas stockings or decorations be hung in the area of it.

Under no circumstance should any solid fuel (wood, coal, paper,

etc.) be used in this fireplace.

Children should be carefully supervised when in the same room as

the fireplace… It’s Hot!
For Your Safety
What to do if you smell gas
• DO NOT try to light any appliance
• DO NOT touch ANY electrical switch
• DO NOT use ANY phone in your premise
• Immediately phone your gas supplier from your neighbour’s
phone
• If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire department

48
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Your house is equipped with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Operation should be checked periodically to make sure that these
devices are in working order.

The smoke detectors are wired together throughout the home. If you
activate one, they all respond. If you activate a smoke detector while
cooking, etc., and have determined the home is safe but have shut
off the electrical circuit that controls the detector, make sure to
reactivate the circuit immediately. The noise will stop when the
source of smoke is alleviated.

Smoke detectors have been provided on each level of your house,

near the sleeping areas and normally near stairs. These units are
‘hard-wired’ into the electrical system so there are no batteries to be
replaced. If you install additional units, be sure to change the
batteries regularly. A good suggestion: when you change your clocks
every spring and summer, change your batteries also.

Carbon Monoxide detectors detect dangerous levels of this gas. High

concentration of carbon monoxide can cause death.
To keep dust particles and spider webs from inadvertently setting off
the alarm, periodically vacuum the detector’s openings.

If your Carbon Monoxide detector alarm sounds:

1. Call the fire department.

2. Open all the doors and windows to get fresh air into the house.
3. Turn off your ventilation system, including all exhaust fans.
4. Get out of the house.

Caution:
Make sure that everyone in your house is familiar with the
sound of the detector’s alarm.

49
General Maintenance

You new home will require some general maintenance throughout

the year (this is similar to your new car maintenance). Proper
maintenance of a new home not only protects your investment, but
also ensures that your warranty coverage under the Ontario New
Home Warranty Program remains intact.

Remember that improper home maintenance could nullify certain

warranty coverage. Problems caused by homeowner neglect, such
as allowing caulking to wear down, which leads to moisture damage,
will not be covered by the warranty. Please make sure you read this
manual for further suggestions and requirements.

In summary, the following will assist you in the general maintenance

of your home:
• In the fall, air out the basement. This will help to prevent mold
and mildew from accumulating.
• Before you need to turn on the furnace for the heating season,
have the system professionally serviced. You should change or
clean the filters yourself a minimum of every two months. Clean
and eliminate all dust and dirt from around the furnace,
registers, and any condensing units.
• To guarantee efficient operation, inspect and oil exhaust
ventilation fans as necessary (as per the manufacturer’s
recommendations). Check vent covers on your dryer and range
hood for cracks, missing vanes, and blockages. To prevent
grease buildup, remove and scrub the kitchen range hood filter
with mild hot soapy water.
• Check windows and doors for gaps in the weather stripping and
breaks in the caulking. To keep weather stripping pliable,
lubricate it with petroleum jelly.
• Garden hose connections will have a shut off inside the house.
To prevent freezing and bursting, turn off the connection and
drain from the inside.
• Check any exterior painted surfaces for signs of moisture
penetration. Blistering and peeling paint, if not corrected, can
lead to water penetration.

50
• Clear eaves troughs and downspouts of all debris. If water
cannot flow properly, it may cause ice and snow to backup
under the shingles, causing leakage through the roof.
• Keep windows free of leaves and garbage. Lot drainage is
designed to keep water away from the foundation. If you restrict
the natural movement, you will experience a water problem in
the spring.
• Check and fix cracks in the driveway (if paved) and on the
walkways before the cold weather arrives. Water that gets inside
these cracks will freeze and expand, making the cracks larger.
• Autumn is a good time to plant a new lawn and to fertilize the
existing lawn. Winterize your shrubs and bushes against the
cold by rapping them with burlap.

NOTE: The information provided in this booklet is general in nature.

It is not meant to replace qualified professional tradespeople to
rectify specific problems that may arise. Cook Homes takes no
liability for the contents of this manual as it is provided for your
information only.

51
Notes

52