The design of a pocket door sometimes involves lower guides rather than a rigid lower track. These guides are designed to rub across the face of the door in normal operation. This contact may mark the door and this is acceptable.

Marginal door wobble is inherent to the design of a pocket door and is not considered a defect.

Pocket doors may require periodic adjustment, cleaning and lubrication. This is part of normal homeowner maintenance.

Normal homeowner maintenance for sliding doors and screens may involve adjustment from time to time. Tracks and hardware may require cleaning and lubrication.

Bi-fold doors can easily lose alignment by something as minor as a coat sleeve being caught between the two doors as they close. This situation is beyond the builder’s control. A misaligned bi-fold door can be re-adjusted to its proper position. Bi-fold door readjustment is part of routine homeowner maintenance.

Minor warping is normal. Interior wood doors are composed of natural wood fibres and are affected by changes in indoor relative humidity.

Normal homeowner maintenance includes controlling indoor humidity levels to prevent permanent warping of doors.

Homeowners should confirm proper operation of all interior doors at commencement of warranty.

Seasonal humidity levels may cause doors and jambs to swell, resulting in temporary rubbing.

Normal homeowner maintenance includes controlling indoor humidity levels to prevent permanent warping of doors.

Normal homeowner maintenance includes adjustment of teleposts.

Wood or wood composite doors are composed of natural wood fibres and are affected by changes in indoor, relative humidity. Normal homeowner maintenance includes controlling indoor humidity levels to prevent permanent warping of doors.

Cosmetics of natural wood doors are contractual issues. Natural wood doors should be evaluated for cosmetics as well as the quality of installation.

Wood veneer doors are a unique assembly of natural woods. The character of natural wood is often why it is selected over other manufactured options that are more uniform in appearance. Natural variations in colour, grain and the inclusion of whorls created by intersecting pieces of the tree in wood doors are inherent to this product.

The open grain in some wood surfaces tends to show a rough appearance however, the surface is considered to be uniform.

Variation in grain will affect the colour of stains and clear finishes resulting in variations over the surface of a wooden door.

Over time, light itself will cause a distinction in colour between covered and uncovered door areas. Some woods will fade in colour such as birch while others, such as cherry, will darken.

The expansion and contraction of natural wood due to changes in humidity is normal.

Rectified areas shall closely match the original finished surface for colour, sheen, and texture; however, they may exhibit slight differences in appearance.

Interior door sets require occasional lubrication. Such routine maintenance is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Seasonal humidity levels may cause doors and jambs to swell, resulting in a door set that requires marginally more effort to latch on occasion. This condition is usually temporary.

Normal homeowner maintenance includes adjustment of teleposts.

Interior doors are often undercut to facilitate air movement through the house; the resulting gap is not a defect.

Carpet and/or underlay upgrades that exceed door undercut gap height are not defects.

Normal homeowner maintenance includes adjustment of teleposts.

Interior door sets require occasional lubrication. Such routine maintenance is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Seasonal humidity levels may cause doors and jambs to swell, resulting in a door set that requires marginally more effort to latch on occasion. This condition is usually temporary.

Alterations, deletions and additions made by the homeowner are not covered by the warranty.

Exterior doors can warp to some degree due to temperature differential between inside and outside surfaces. Doors between the garage space and the outdoors are not required to be weather-stripped. The door between the living area of the home and garage requires appropriate sealing.

Exterior doors often use a compressive or magnetic gasket to provide an effective seal meaning that marginally more effort is required to overcome the seal when opening and closing the door. This is not considered a defect.

Doors between a home and an attached garage must be maintained in keeping with any maintenance documentation provided by the warranty provider or builder.

Exterior doors may warp to some degree due to temperature differential between inside and outside surfaces.

Doors between a home and an attached garage must be maintained in keeping with any maintenance documentation provided by the warranty provider or builder.

Seasonal humidity levels may cause doors and jambs to swell. This condition is usually temporary.

Shrinkage cracks in the surface of a wood door are considered normal and are not defects.

Damage due to abuse is not warrantable.

Exterior doors can easily be damaged during construction or when the homeowner is moving in. It is important that exterior doors be properly inspected during the walk-through.

Filling of dents and repainting is an acceptable repair. Slight variations in the colour of the rectified area are considered acceptable.

Alterations, deletions and additions by the homeowner that result in damage to exterior doors are not covered by the warranty.

Exterior doors may require that edge surfaces be painted to discourage moisture entry into the door assembly or to prevent warping. The builder is obligated to paint and install the door as described in the manufacturer’s installation manual to maintain the manufacturer‘s warranty.

Stickers are usually attached to exterior doors reminding the builder of his obligations to maintain the manufacturer‘s warranty.

Generally, exterior door manufacturers indicate that storm doors are not to be installed over metal exterior doors especially on south facing facades. Heat build-up between a storm door and the exterior door can increase significantly, damaging any heat-susceptible parts such as plastic mouldings or decorative surface-applied mouldings.

Damage caused by improper maintenance or material, design or work supplied by the homeowner is not warrantable.

Hardware offered and installed by the builder shall not show excessive patina within the warranty period. Specialty order hardware is subject to the manufacturer’s warranty and varies by selection.

Some hardware may have a varnish-type coating applied to inhibit discolouration. Such protective coatings can easily be damaged by abrasive cleansers. Oxidation and environmental pollutants can accelerate discolouration.

If plugs are not provided by the manufacturer, they are beyond the builder’s control and obligation. This is an issue of product design specific to the moulding manufacturer. Some designs simply do not include plugs.

If plugs are normally included but were not installed, the builder is obligated to acquire and install them. After plug installation the builder will restore the original painted finish on the moulding installed by the builder.

Slight variations in the colour of the rectified area are considered acceptable.

Proper operation of overhead garage doors should be confirmed by the homeowner at commencement of warranty.

If an automatic garage door opener was supplied and installed by the builder, it shall operate properly to the specifications of the overhead door manufacturer and the manufacturer of the automatic door opener. The builder’s warranty ceases when an automatic door opener is installed by the homeowner.

Homeowners are strongly cautioned not to adjust the weight compensation springs, which store considerable force and could cause life threatening injuries. Contact professional personnel for service.

If weather stripping has been provided and installed by the builder, it shall be installed to meet the design function. While such weather stripping is designed to be compressed, it need not provide a weather tight seal. Some snow and water intrusion is acceptable.

Homeowners are strongly cautioned not to adjust the weight compensation springs, which store considerable force and could cause life threatening injuries. Contact professional personnel for service.

The Canadian Standards Association publishes a standard for glass defects, recognized throughout the industry, which is the basis for the acceptable performance condition.

Localized repairs are acceptable.

Repairs shall be similar in colour to the original. Some variation in the colour should be expected.

Condensation is a natural occurrence when interior air, laden with sufficient humidity, comes in contact with a surface that is sufficiently cold.

Condensation on windows is a natural occurrence and will correct itself when the outside air temperature increases and/or when indoor relative humidity decreases.

Film or foil installed on the surface of the glass can cause a thermal break resulting in either seal failure or glass breakage; this is not a defect.

Window manufacturers may have specific extended warranties to cover the integrity of window seals. Refer to the Manufacturer’s warranty document.

Condensation between panes indicates the airtight seal around the edge of the glass panes has been compromised.

Film or foil installed on the surface of the glass can cause a thermal break resulting in either seal failure or glass breakage; this is not a defect.

Mould and mildew typically result from improper moisture levels within the home. Improper moisture levels can result from construction defects, inadequate homeowner maintenance, or failure to maintain appropriate humidity levels in the home. Where mould or mildew is found to be a result of a defect in the new home, the mold or mildew will be addressed as part of the rectifying the defect. Damage to contents of the home resulting from mould or mildew is excluded from warranty.

Mould or mildew can usually be removed from painted surfaces during normal home maintenance.

Mould or mildew caused by improper humidity levels within the home resulting from inadequate homeowner maintenance is excluded from the warranty.

Elevated moisture levels can cause wood or hardboard siding to bow. Siding that is intended to have paint and/or sealer requires regular homeowner inspection and maintenance to ensure continuity of the protective layer.

Varying lighting conditions can exaggerate minor variations in siding profile and texture.

Siding cut to accommodate large openings, such as windows, may exhibit localized waviness and is acceptable.

The detail between abutting siding sections is particular to the manufacturer and the National Building Code.

A gap may be required to prevent buckling.

Nails that have been excessively countersunk detract from the overall appearance of the finished surface.

This condition can lead to premature deterioration of the siding by allowing water to accumulate in the holes left by the nail heads.

Siding that is intended to have paint and/or sealer requires regular homeowner inspection and maintenance to ensure continuity of the protective layer.

Homeowners have a responsibility to mitigate damages and inform the builder of siding de-lamination that could create consequential damages.

Localized repairs shall be finished to closely match the cosmetics of the adjacent surface.

Fasteners can be expected to weather, oxidize and discolour with exposure to the elements. A marginal amount of associated staining around the fastener may occur due to particulates and dust in rainwater. Minor oxidation does not impair the performance of the fasteners.

With any type of siding or cladding, such as lap siding, that requires repetitive parallel alignment from one course (row) to the next; the installer must make minor adjustments to keep the entire elevation in general visual alignment. Adjustments of this nature are normal.

Structural cambers shall be taken into consideration when evaluating alignment.

Repairs shall be similar in colour to the original trim/batten. Some variation in the colour should be expected.

Some engineered battens are pre-finished with primer to limit water absorption into the batten. Boards that are cut to size as they are installed result in unprimed surfaces at the cut edge. These un-primed edges are more prone to water absorption. This may lead to swelling and early deterioration of the batten, leaving the wall behind more susceptible to moisture penetration.

Fasteners or accessories are generally made in fewer standard colours than siding products.

All colour fades over time with exposure to sunlight. Areas of intense, direct sunlight exposure will tend to fade faster than other, more shaded areas.

Rectified areas shall closely match the existing material for colour and texture.

Variation between dye lots for rectified siding is acceptable.

Trees or other buildings may shade portions of the wall from uniform sunlight and cause non-uniform fading. Such situations are beyond the control and responsibility of the builder.

Aluminum and vinyl siding are intentionally installed loosely to the substrate allowing for thermal expansion and contraction. Siding should not displace or detach under normal weather conditions.

Vinyl siding shall be installed and maintained in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications.

Filler and paint is an acceptable repair. Minor colour variances inherent in these repairs are acceptable.

Filler and paint is an acceptable repair. Minor colour variances inherent in these repairs are acceptable.

Some knots or other naturally occurring features can be expected to bleed through in cedar shakes over time. The reoccurrence of these features through full-covering or opaque stains may be dependent on the direction the roof faces and/or exposure to sunlight.

Space between different cladding materials and between penetrations is required to allow for movement. A secondary plane of protection exists behind the surface of the cladding.

Caulking and sealants may require regular homeowner maintenance to keep moisture from entering the building envelope.

The colour and texture of rectified areas shall match closely to the existing stucco. Slight variations should be expected.

Consideration must be given to the extent of cracking and the cosmetics of a local repair versus retexturing the entire, immediate wall.

Caulking and sealants gaps and penetrations require regular homeowner maintenance to keep moisture from entering stucco and adjacent cladding materials.

Damage caused by repeated exposure to water from dripping hose bibs or overspray from sprinkler systems is not considered a defect.

The colour or texture of repaired cement materials is difficult to match exactly. Whatever repair method is used, the repair shall match the existing stucco closely; slight colour variations should be expected.

Colour variation is normal as all colours fade with exposure to sunlight. Variations attributed to shadows cast from trees and adjacent buildings are considered environmental normal wear and tear and not covered by the warranty.

Because stucco is applied by hand, each stucco applicator has a unique way of creating a stucco texture. Just as no two signatures are identical, no two stucco textures will be the same.

The texture applied to stucco induces deep shading that defines the character of stucco and is not considered a defect.

Discolouration and mineral deposits caused by repeated exposure to water from dripping hose bibs or overspray from sprinkler systems is beyond the builder’s control and not warrantable.

Stucco separating from its base may indicate an issue with trapped moisture or adjacent flashing details. The contributing cause for the defect should be ascertained before proceeding with repairs.

Caulking and sealants around windows and wall openings require regular homeowner maintenance to keep moisture from entering stucco and adjacent cladding materials.

The colour or texture of repaired cement materials is difficult to match exactly. Whatever repair method is used, the repair shall match the existing stucco closely but slight colour variations should be expected.

Builders should consider the cosmetic acceptability of a local repair in comparison to applying new stucco to the larger wall, and terminating the repair at a convenient corner.

Efflorescence is a white deposit on the surface of stucco caused by a combination of soluble salts, moisture, and hydrostatic pressure and can present itself in localized areas.

Efflorescence is an indication that moisture is moving through the material to the surface. This is a normal condition and tends to diminish over time.

Efflorescence is usually harmless and can be removed with a stiff brush and water.

The colour or texture of repaired cement materials is difficult to match exactly. Whatever repair method is used, the repair shall closely match the existing parging.

Builders should consider the cosmetic acceptability of a local repair in comparison to applying new parging to the larger wall, and terminating the repair at a convenient corner.

Repairs shall be similar in colour to the original. Some variation in the colour should be expected.

Excessive moisture in the substrate can contribute to premature finish deterioration. Some light stains may show shading as a result of wood absorption rates.

Exterior, horizontal surface finishes on decks and handrails are not warrantable.

Normal wear and tear resulting in changes to the finish is not considered a defect.

Maintenance of deck finishes is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Natural lighting conditions throughout the day will change the appearance of a painted surface. Direct sunlight glancing near parallel to the wall is not normal lighting.

Brush marks are acceptable in cut-in areas and on trim. The appearance of brush marks may vary in appearance with paint type and gloss.

Repainted areas shall closely match the adjacent finished surface for colour, sheen and texture.

Differences due to dye lot variations terminating at a corner or adjacent surface are acceptable.

It is normal for exterior paints and stains to fade. The degree of fading depends on environmental conditions such as southern exposures and wind. The degree of colour fade is greatly influenced by the intensity of the paint colour selected.

The darker a colour, the more likely it is to fade. Dark colours absorb heat more readily than lighter shades and the fade rate is accelerated.

Exterior paint or stain may fade under normal conditions and over time.

Mould or mildew can usually be removed from exterior painted surfaces during normal home maintenance.

It is common for surface residue (typically brown) to appear on the exterior surfaces of siding. This residue does not affect the performance of the siding.

Accumulation of dust and dirt on the siding due to construction conditions is not considered a defect.

Cleaning of the siding after commencement of warranty is considered a homeowner maintenance item.

Natural lighting conditions throughout the day will change the appearance of a painted surface. Direct sunlight glancing near parallel to the wall is not normal lighting.

Brush marks are acceptable in cut-in areas and on trim. The appearance of brush marks may vary in appearance with paint type and gloss.

Repainted areas shall closely match the adjacent finished surface for colour, sheen and texture. If the repair involves a significant proportion of the surface, the larger immediate area should be refinished.

Differences due to dye lot variations terminating at a corner or adjacent surface are acceptable.

Streaking on paint finish due to condensation is not a defect and usually the result of high levels of humidity in bathrooms. Bath and ventilation fans should be operated for longer periods of time to help prevent this occurrence.

On drywall surfaces the appearance of a paint finish is highly dependent upon the selected drywall finish. Higher level drywall finishes should be considered (as part of the construction specification) on walls that will ultimately receive darker paint, glossier finishes or exposure to high intensity or glancing light.

Number of paint coats and paint specifications (included in the purchase agreement) should be considered in determination of the paint finish.

Virtually all applied finishes will fade when exposed to sunlight over time.

Areas of intense, direct sunlight exposure will tend to fade faster than other, more shaded areas. Direct sunlight may cause the underlying substrate to fade and the clear finish to “yellow”. Clear finishes on fine woods is influenced by the wood substrate and the moisture balance in that wood. Clear finish on rectified areas shall closely match existing areas for both colour and texture.

Differences due to dye lot variations are acceptable.

The use of inappropriate household cleaners, abrasives, soaps and wood conditioners may contribute to discolouration and premature deterioration of finishes. Deterioration from abuse or inappropriate cleaners is excluded from the warranty.

Damage to interior finishes due to excessive condensation is not a defect. The homeowner is to maintain proper humidity levels within the home especially during cold weather.

High humidity can cause wall coverings to peel. Proper ventilation, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, can help maintain proper indoor humidity.

The homeowner is to maintain proper humidity levels within the home especially during cold weather.

Wall coverings shall be installed to achieve a generally uniform appearance and within the manufacturers tolerance.

Caulk shall be applied uniformly.

The homeowner should report a sealant defect to the builder as soon as possible to mitigate damages.

After the warranty period, the integrity of the sealant is the responsibility of the homeowner and should be reviewed for signs of deterioration as part of regular home maintenance.

The builder is responsible for installing grout uniformly to resist water intrusion.

The homeowner should report a grout defect in a shower or bath area to the builder as soon as possible to mitigate damages.

Grout joints between ceramic tiles and adjacent surfaces may deteriorate over time under normal use. Homeowners should inspect grout installations routinely and repair or seal grout lines exposed to water.

Homeowners should pay close attention to horizontal surfaces and consider sealing or resealing as part of routine maintenance.

After the warranty period, the integrity of the sealant is the responsibility of the homeowner and should be reviewed for signs of deterioration as part of regular home maintenance.

Minor cracks resulting from normal shrinkage caused by drying after construction, or thermal expansion and contraction, are acceptable. Hairline cracks are acceptable.

Cracks due to impact are not defects.

Rectified sections of grout shall be of similar type and colour as the original installation. Minor colour variances between new and existing grout should be expected, and are acceptable.

The homeowner should report a grout defect to the builder as soon as possible to mitigate damages.

Grout joints between ceramic tiles and adjacent surfaces may deteriorate over time under normal use. Homeowners should inspect grout installations routinely and repair or seal grout lines exposed to water.

Homeowners should pay close attention to horizontal surfaces and consider sealing or resealing as part of routine maintenance.

Grout can be easily discoloured (especially lighter shades) by routine activities that are beyond the builder’s control. Washing tile can discolour grout over time.

Rectified joints shall be of the same pattern and similar in colour to the original. Some variation in the colour should be expected. Sealing grout and maintaining that seal can greatly reduce grout discolouration.

Sealing grout is a homeowner responsibility.

A builder may alter the width of a grout line, which may result in a less cosmetically appealing finish, rather than exercising another option, such as cutting the finished edge from the tile this is acceptable.

Consideration shall be given to the type and placement of tiles.

Some tiles are designed with irregular finished surfaces or irregular edge detailing, which may exaggerate the aesthetic appearance of the condition.

Wider grout joints tend to blend tile height variations more than thinner grout lines.

Variations in tile colours due to different dye lots are to be expected when making repairs.

Natural materials, such as shale, marble and granite cannot reasonably be positioned throughout the installation to provide a surface uniform in colour and character. Such variations are natural and acceptable.

Quarried stone tiles have veins, depth and colour that may vary tremendously, and such character markings are not defects. This is a cosmetic issue. The degree of non-uniformity is subjective.

Minor waviness may be more apparent in corners that are not right-angled; this is acceptable.

Each wallboard corner is a site-finished detail, produced by hand, to contend with variations demanded by joining two or three planes into a visually acceptable installation.

Drywall cracks are associated with normal shrinkage of the framing components and are not warranted in that circumstance.

Drywall finishes within garages and unfinished areas are excluded from warranty other than as required by the National Building Code.

Cracks are not unusual in drywall compounds at joints particularly at corners. Most cracks are the result of normal shrinkage or settlement and are not generally considered to be defects. Painting is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Builders’ specific policies with respect to drywall repair will vary.

“Truss uplift” is a term often applied to a condition where the bottom chord of wood roof trusses bow or arch upward causing the ceiling drywall that is fastened to it to become separated from the wall finish. Differences in the temperature and moisture content between the top and bottom members of trusses can cause seasonal movement of the bottom chord.

The condition cannot always be prevented but can be controlled by good design, good attic venting and by “floating” the ceiling drywall near partitions.

Similar damage can occur due to downward movement of the wall as a result of settlement of interior wall footings or shrinkage of the framing lumber.

Where repairs are required, colour, finish or texture may not have an exact match.

Seasonal conditions may delay the timing of repairs.

Application of corner drywall finishes alter the plane of the wall and is acceptable. This situation is exaggerated on short walls and may be more readily apparent when viewed from an acute angle, or along the plane of the wall.

Caulking is an acceptable repair for gaps that may exist between finishes meeting the acceptable performance condition.

Wall and ceiling surfaces of gypsum wallboard consist of paper and joint compound. These materials accept paint finishes differently. Some variations in texture of the final finish may result and are normal.

Surface texture will vary dependent on the level of finish. Specifying the level of drywall finish is a contractual matter between the builder and homeowner.

Consideration should be given to the number of spot repairs, the level of drywall finish, and the colour of the builder-applied finish paint.

Spot and linear texture differences in painted surfaces are often a result of variation in the drywall substrate rather than the paint. Wall and ceiling surfaces of gypsum wallboard consist of paper and a joint compound. These materials accept paint finishes differently. The preparation of the drywall surface before applying finish paint establishes the level of finish. Variations in texture of the final finish may result and are normal within each of the specified drywall finish levels.

Consideration should be given to the following factors when selecting the appropriate finished surface quality of the drywall:

• Function of the space

• Cost of the finish in terms of value

• Type of final surface decoration applied (paint, textures, wall coverings, mirrors, etc.)

• Type of lighting, lighting intensity and angle of lighting

It is not unusual to see undulation in dry-walled ceilings. This occurrence can be exaggerated by particular or critical lighting conditions and glossy finishes. Spray-applied textures and matte finishes minimize this condition.

In ceilings adjacent to roof trusses, ceiling drywall may employ a “free floating corner” detail that may appear as unevenness along an edge. This is a design solution to the issue of truss uplift and is acceptable.

Ceiling texture is a site-applied finish. Variation is inherent to the process and minor variation in texture is normal.

Repairs shall be similar in colour and pattern to the original ceiling finish. Some variation in the colour and texture should be expected.

A localized repair is acceptable.

During periods of extended cold weather, moisture from the living space or outside sources carried by air movement can accumulate as frost on the underside of roof trusses and sheathing. The degree of frost accumulation is related to the relative humidity of the house air, the rate of air movement into the attic and the length of the cold spell. When temperatures rise above freezing, this build-up may melt faster than the attic’s ventilation system is able to exhaust the accumulated moisture.

Homeowners have a responsibility to mitigate damage by reducing humidity levels in their homes during cold weather. Although builders can minimize the moisture reaching the attic by ensuring the air/vapour barrier is as continuous as possible, air leakage into the attic cannot be completely eliminated. Even a small air leak can deposit a significant amount of moisture over a long cold spell if the moisture content of the air is high.

Attic spaces shall be designed and constructed with an air/vapour barrier to minimize the migration of moisture laden air from the interior of the home into the attic space.

Repeated opening of the attic access or leaving the access unsealed causes increased humidity which can contribute to this condition.

During periods of extended cold weather, moisture from the living space or outside sources carried by air movement can accumulate as frost on the underside of roof trusses and sheathing. The degree of frost accumulation is related to the relative humidity of the house air, the rate of air movement into the attic and the length of the cold spell. When temperatures rise above freezing, this build-up may melt faster than the attic’s ventilation system is able to exhaust the accumulated moisture.

Homeowners have a responsibility to mitigate damage by reducing humidity levels in their homes during cold weather. Although builders can minimize the moisture reaching the attic by ensuring the air/vapour barrier is as continuous as possible, air leakage into the attic cannot be completely eliminated. Even a small air leak can deposit a significant amount of moisture over a long cold spell if the moisture content of the air is high.

Attic spaces shall be designed and constructed with an air/vapour barrier to minimize the migration of moisture laden air from the interior of the home into the attic space.

Repeated opening of the attic access or leaving the access unsealed causes increased humidity which can contribute to this condition.

The visibility of gaps is dependent on a number of factors including texture, pattern, colour, type of resilient material and lighting. Strong sunlight entering from a low angle will generate shadows and exaggerate any irregularity in the floors.

Seam sealer recommended by the flooring manufacturer is used to fill gaps between seams of sheet flooring. Seam sealer involves the application of an adhesive between abutting surfaces so a distance between seam edges is assumed as part of that process.

Excessive water or heat can adversely affect the glue and seam sealer on resilient flooring. Lifted seams or edges should be reported to the builder as soon as possible within the warranty period to mitigate damages. Seam sealer recommended by the flooring manufacturer is used to fill gaps between seams of sheet flooring.

After the warranty period, maintenance of the resilient flooring and associated sealant is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Typically this defect presents itself as an edge or corner of linoleum that has lifted, triggered by a bead of sealant (or seam sealant) that permitted water beneath the flooring.

The homeowner has a responsibility to mitigate damages. Any lifted seams or edges should be reported to the builder as soon as possible within the warranty period. After the warranty period, maintenance of the resilient flooring and associated sealant is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Complex, bold patterns are inherently more difficult to match and that complexity should be considered when choosing a floor pattern.

Builders will install flooring to achieve an overall balance in larger, frequently-used rooms. General alignment sometimes requires that alignment is altered in hallways or storage rooms to favour better alignment in main living areas.

This issue can best be avoided by selecting floor coverings that contain an element of randomness in their design.

The various types of resilient floorings require different installation methods, i.e., loose lay, primary bonded, fully bonded, etc.). These methods vary with respect to characteristics such as the nature and location of the bonding agent, which can affect the degree of "looseness" of a finished floor.

Resilient flooring should not be subjected to standing water that could compromise adhesives along the seams.

Areas that become detached as a result of normal wear and tear or chemical contamination are not warrantable.

Shade and dye lot variations within specified colours in replaced areas are acceptable.

The visibility of ridges is dependent on a number of factors including texture, pattern, colour, type of resilient material, and lighting. Strong sunlight entering from a low angle will generate shadows and will exaggerate any irregularity in the floors.

The measurement of a ridge is done by placing the centre of a 6” straight edge over the ridge and depressing one side. The high end will measure twice the height of the ridge. The measurement of a depression is done by placing a straight edge over the depression and measuring the depth.

The builder is to match the repair closely but is not responsible for discontinued resilient flooring, patterns, dye lot variations, or for colour fade between existing and rectified flooring. Builders sometimes leave flooring remnants in the new home for such repairs, and these materials should not be discarded by the homeowner.

The substrate directly beneath the irregularity will be cleared of any irregularity or debris that may be causing the ridge or depression.

Consideration shall be given to the type of flooring installed.

As part of the repair procedures, vinyl flooring may be punctured to remove trapped air and then resealed.

This defect is typically induced by an incompatible agent such as latex-backed carpets, oven cleaners, hairsprays and foods such as mustards or vegetable dyes contacting the flooring. These and others can all discolour flooring permanently.

Staining caused by substances applied by the homeowner is not a defect.

Over a period of years, direct sunlight naturally causes general colour fade and yellowing; this is normal.

Sheet flooring shall be installed on a clean surface devoid of inks, stains, pigments or other colorants that could disperse upwards and discolour the finished surface of the flooring.

The substrate will be rectified to alleviate telegraphing.

This defect is typically induced by an incompatible agent such as latex-backed carpets, oven cleaners, hairsprays and foods such as mustards or vegetable dyes contacting the flooring. These and others can all discolour flooring permanently.

Staining caused by substances applied by the homeowner is not a defect.

Over a period of years, direct sunlight naturally causes general colour fade and yellowing; this is normal.

Differences in gloss, texture or dye lot variation in non-contiguous (non-adjoining) areas are not considered defects.

Rectified areas may still show differences attributable to normal wear and tear of the original flooring. Such differences are normal and acceptable.

Slight variation between dye lots within a specified colour pattern is normal.

Where dye lot match is unavailable, or a remnant of original vinyl flooring is not available, material may be removed from an inconspicuous location and used for repair.

Builders will sometimes leave a piece of vinyl flooring in the home which should be retained by the homeowner for future repair purposes.

Raised nail heads or irregularities caused by other fasteners, e.g., staples or glues, are typically the result of movements of the floor joist caused by natural shrinkage and deflection. Floor framing and installation of underlay should be carried out in a manner that minimizes the occurrence of nail pops and takes into consideration the type of resilient flooring to be installed. Flooring should be installed according to the flooring and sub-flooring manufacturer’s instructions.

Hardwood flooring will be installed as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Improper humidity levels within the home can cause shrinkage to hardwood flooring. Maintaining humidity levels is the responsibility of the homeowner. Gaps due to improper homeowner maintenance are not covered.

Cupping and crowning is attributed to virtually any measure of bulk water made available to any unfinished side of the board, including moisture from excessive wet mopping or humidity rising from a lower level (i.e., a basement laundry area).

Improper humidity levels within the home can cause expansion of hardwood flooring. Maintaining proper humidity levels is the responsibility of the homeowner. Cupping or crowning due to improper homeowner maintenance is not covered.

If the condition is acute and the proper humidity levels are re-established and maintained, the flooring may return to its original condition without further remediation.

Improper humidity levels within the home can cause buckling of hardwood flooring. Maintaining proper humidity levels is the responsibility of the homeowner. Buckling of hardwood flooring due to improper homeowner maintenance is not warrantable.

Damage caused by lack of proper ventilation or exposure to bulk water is warrantable.

Where repairs are required, colour, finish, or texture may not have an exact match.

Hardwood floorings incorporate an interlocking design that virtually assures that each board establishes proper elevation from the adjacent board. In some instances the builder may alter the tongue or grove detail to facilitate a perimeter detail. In such cases the builder is responsible for re-establishing the general floor elevation and affix the detail properly.

Transition strips bridge differences in elevation and are not considered defects.

Some floor tiles are designed with irregular finished surfaces or irregular edge detailing, which may exaggerate the aesthetic appearance of the condition. Where hardwood wood surface exhibits irregularity by design or homeowner request, the condition is an aesthetic choice and not a defect.

Approximately 90% of hardwood flooring sold is pre-finished in a controlled factory environment. Prefinished hardwood offers a more consistent sheen and finish.

Site-finished hardwood floors are dependent upon the home environment and manual application methods. Minor differences in sheen are more common to site-finished flooring.

Each hardwood floor is a unique assembly of natural woods. That character is often why wood is selected over other manufactured options that are more uniform in appearance. Natural variations in hardwood flooring should be considered inherent to its character. Within each annual growth ring of a tree there exists springwood and summer wood, which is respectively lighter and darker. Stain intentionally accents these differences, and colour may vary considerably even within the same length of board.

Each hardwood floor is a unique assembly of natural woods. That character is often why real wood is selected over other manufactured options that are more uniform in appearance. Natural variations in hardwood flooring should be considered inherent to its character. The open grain in some wood surfaces tends to show a rough appearance, although the surface is still uniform.

Light itself, particularly direct sun light, will cause a change in colour over floor areas, specifically between covered and uncovered areas. Bamboo and cork flooring will fade in colour quickly while others, such as cherry, will darken over time.

At commencement of warranty, the floor should be evaluated for cosmetics as well as the quality of installation.

Sand, abrasives and dirt may prematurely attack the finish of fine hardwood floors. Homeowners are responsible for sweeping and vacuuming abrasive debris and protecting traffic areas with area rugs or floor mats.

Damage caused by excessive wear and tear, chemical attack, or improper maintenance is not covered.

Board length varies depending on board width, manufacturer and grade. In lesser grades of wood floors, short boards may be more prevalent. This is not a defect, but a product selection issue, and is therefore not covered under warranty.

Splinters discovered at regular intervals may indicate an issue with the nailing or stapling operation during installation.

Damage resulting from improper maintenance and abuse is not a defect.