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Air Intake and Exhaust Vents
On the exterior of your home, either in the rear or side building face, air intake
and exhaust vents or pipes to vent your mechanical services has been installed.
These will be pointed out to you during your Pre-Delivery Inspection. Familiarize
yourself with vent locations and periodically check during the winter months
to ensure that snow or other obstructions are removed. Information on direct
venting mechanical appliances is mentioned in the Plumbing section for Hot
Water Tanks.
Framing
Lumber is a natural product and due to its cellular characteristics, continues
to experience moisture content fl uctuations despite being dried prior to use
in the construction of your home.
Following occupancy, and particularly during the fi rst heating season, shrinkage
caused by “drying out” may occur. The results of the shrinkage appear in a variety
of forms and do not adversely aff ect the structural integrity of the dwelling.
Examples of the results of shrinkage are:
• Thin cracks appear in exposed wood structural members
(i.e., joists and beams)
• Small gaps appear between cabinets or vanities and the walls
• Minor joints open in door and window trim casing, baseboards and walls
• Fireplace mantels may shrink slightly at the joints or separate from
the wall
• Wood fl ooring opens between
individual pieces or settles from
the baseboards at walls, or
under door jambs and trim
• Squeaks develop in the fl oor
underlay, wood fl ooring and
stair treads
• Small gaps develop between
stair treads and risers
or mouldings
The reactions of fi nishes to shrinkage can be concealed with putty, fi ller
or latex caulking. Consult a hardware store or building supply centre for
recommendations on the appropriate materials to apply.
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