Service & Warranty

New Sod (Grass) Care

Watering Tips

• Watering is the most important part of establishing new grass.
• Too little water can lead to brown or dry patches.
• Too much water can cause mushrooms, disease, and weak roots.
• Check moisture by lifting a corner of the sod. The soil underneath should remain moist for the first 2–3 weeks.

Watering Schedule

• Day 1: Begin with a deep soak to thoroughly wet both the sod and the underlying soil.
• Weeks 1–2: Lightly water 1–3 times per day for 30–45 minutes per session. Avoid letting sprinklers run overnight or all day.
• After 1 Month: Switch to deeper, less frequent watering sessions.
• Once Mowed & Rooted: Water every 1–2 days depending on weather conditions.

Best Times to Water

• Morning is ideal.
• Early afternoon is also acceptable.
• Avoid watering late in the evening to prevent disease.

Areas That May Need More Water

• Sunny spots
• Fence lines
• Near hot siding
• Sloped areas

Maintenance

• First Mow: Wait 10–21 days, until the sod is firmly rooted.
• Seasonal Considerations: Sod planted in spring establishes faster than fall sod, which may not root until the following spring.
• Ideal Grass Height: Keep grass between 1.25–2.5 inches (30–60 mm). Longer blades retain moisture better.
• Weed Control: Remove weeds by hand or use a selective herbicide such as Killex. Avoid using products like Roundup.
• Fertilizer (Optional): Apply every 4–6 weeks between April and September.
• Use a spring formula (20-8-8) for growth.
• Use a fall formula (13-25-12) to promote root strength.

Tree Care

Watering Guidelines

• Lawn sprinklers aren’t enough. Trees require direct watering.
• New trees need about 2 years to establish. Keep watering during the first two summers.

Watering Schedule

• First Week: Water every day.
• Next 3 Weeks: Water twice per week.
• Water Amount: Use 1.5–3 gallons each time; larger trees need more.
• Best Time: Evenings are ideal to reduce evaporation.
• Winter Care for Evergreens: Water deeply after the first hard frost.

Maintenance

• Keep mulch away from the trunk to allow air, water, and light to reach the base.
• Weeds & Suckers: Remove every 2 weeks.
• Pruning: Trim small dead branches as needed.
• Hire a certified arborist for structural pruning or disease management.
• Stakes & Ties: Check regularly. Remove after 2 years.

Shrub Care

Watering Schedule

• First Week: Water daily.
• After Week 1: Water twice per week for the rest of the summer.
• Evergreens (Conifers): Provide one extra deep watering late in the season to prepare for winter.

Maintenance

• Maintain a mulch depth of 4–6 inches. You may need to top it up during the first year.
• Keep mulch away from shrub bases to prevent rot.
• Weeding: Pull weeds every 2 weeks.
• Fertilizer: Apply in spring, mid-summer, and fall using season-specific shrub fertilizer.

If followed consistently, this care plan will help your landscape establish strong, healthy roots and grow beautifully for years to come.

Monthly Filter Checks

When: Early Spring, Late Spring, and Early Fall

Why: The HRV filters collect dust, bugs, tree fuzz, lint, pet hair, and debris that can block airflow and reduce efficiency.

• Turn off your HRV before opening it.
• Carefully slide out the filters.
• Gently vacuum off any visible debris and dust.
• Rinse the filters in a stream of water.
• Let the filters dry completely before reinstalling them.
• Do not clean or reinstall filters in freezing temperatures, as the cold air coming in will freeze the excess water.
• If you have pets or your home is particularly dusty, you may need to clean your filters more frequently.

Seasonal Deep Cleaning

When: Early Spring and Late Fall

• Carefully remove the HRV core.
• Vacuum off loose dust and rinse it gently with a stream of water.
• Do not use harsh chemicals or high-pressure sprays.
• Allow the core to dry completely before reinstalling it.
• Inspect around the fan blades for dust buildup.
• Use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to clean the fan area.
• Locate the condensate drain and ensure the line is clear and not clogged.
• If needed, flush it with a mild solution of warm water and vinegar.
• Inspect both fresh air intake and exhaust vents outside.
• Remove any blockages such as snow, ice, or other debris.

Daily Usage Tips

• Before stepping into the shower or bath, set the bathroom HRV timer to the 60-minute selection.
• For healthy indoor air quality, set the HRV to run at least 20 minutes per hour throughout the day.

Routine Maintenance: Every 3–4 Months

• Change the furnace filter.
• Inspect your furnace filter once a month for excessive build up.
• Turn off the power to the furnace before starting any work.
• Replace the filter every 3–4 months.
• Ensure the arrow on the filter points towards the furnace.
• You may need to replace the filter more frequently if you have pets, live in a dusty environment or near construction, or family members have allergies or respiratory issues.
• A clean filter improves airflow and helps your furnace run more efficiently.

Seasonal Checks: Fall & Winter

• Verify the thermostat is set to HEAT during cold months or to COOL during warmer seasons if using central A/C.
• Replace thermostat batteries once a year, ideally in the fall, if applicable.
• Vacuum around the furnace and nearby floor vents.
• Ensure supply and return vents throughout your home are open and not blocked by furniture or rugs.
• Inspect visible duct openings for dust or debris buildup.
• Inspect exterior intake and exhaust vents for frost or ice buildup during prolonged cold snaps.
• Clear away any debris, snow, or obstructions to ensure proper airflow.

Annual Maintenance

• Schedule an appointment with a licensed HVAC technician for a complete inspection and tune-up.
• Professional service should include checking gas connections, heat exchanger, ignition system, and safe efficient operation.
• Have ducts and cold air return vents professionally cleaned every 2 years.
• Clean vents immediately after major renovation work if drywall dust or debris may have entered the system.

Final Tips

• Set recurring reminders on your phone or calendar for filter checks and seasonal tasks.
• Keep a log of maintenance and professional service dates for reference and resale value.

Monthly Maintenance Checklist

• Confirm that the sump pump is plugged in securely.
• Inspect the power cord for any visible damage.
• Make sure the outlet is dedicated to the pump; avoid plugging in other devices.
• If your system includes a battery backup, ensure the battery is charged.
• Consider installing Wi-Fi-enabled water sensors that send alerts if water is detected at the lid.

Semi-Annual Maintenance

Recommended in Early Spring and Late Fall

For sump pumps with an external float (two-plug system):

• Unplug the devices from the outlet.
• Separate the float switch plug and the sump pump plug.
• Plug the sump pump plug directly into the outlet, bypassing the float.
• Listen or feel for the pump’s vibration to confirm operation.
• Alternatively, remove the sump pit cover and lift the float to trigger operation manually.

For sump pumps with a built-in float (single plug system):

• Slowly pour a bucket of water into the sump pit.
• The pump should activate automatically as the internal float rises.
• If the pump does not engage while fully submerged, it may require servicing.

Annual Maintenance Tasks

• Remove the cover by unscrewing it carefully.
• Clear out debris, dirt, and any small objects that could clog the sump pump.
• Follow the discharge pipe outside and inspect the entire length.
• Clear blockages caused by leaves, dirt, or ice buildup.
• Confirm that water is being directed well away from your home’s foundation.
• During winter months, make sure the line is not frozen.
• Have a licensed plumber inspect the system, ideally combined with hot water tank service to minimize cost.

A little preventative care can go a long way toward avoiding costly basement flooding and water damage.

Introduction

If you are experiencing a power outage in one room or throughout your home, there are a few simple checks you can do yourself before calling an electrician.

Step 1: Confirm the Power Outage

• Check whether the power loss is isolated to a single outlet, room, or the entire house.
• Look outside. If your neighbours are also without power, the issue is likely with your utility provider.
• If so, contact your power company for more information.

Step 2: Locate Your Electrical Panel

• Your panel is typically in the basement, a utility or mechanical room, or near the garage or entryway.
• Modern panels may include AFCI and GFCI safety features.
• Newer breakers may contain electronics to detect unsafe voltage conditions.

Step 3: Look for a Tripped Breaker

• A tripped breaker will often sit between ON and OFF.
• It may look slightly out of alignment compared to the other breakers.
• Some breakers have a red or orange indicator when tripped.

Step 4: Resetting a Breaker

• Push the breaker fully to the OFF position.
• Then flip it firmly back to ON.
• You should feel or hear a click if it resets properly.
• If it trips again immediately, it may indicate an overloaded circuit, wiring problem, or faulty appliance.

Step 5: Check GFCI Outlets

• GFCI outlets are commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, basements, and outdoor areas.
• Look for outlets with TEST and RESET buttons.
• If the RESET button is popped out, press it until it clicks into place.
• Some outlets have indicator lights; a green light typically means the device is functioning properly.
• Use a small device like a lamp to confirm the outlet is working.
• A single GFCI outlet may control multiple outlets in different rooms.

Step 6: Safety Reminders

• Never touch the breaker panel or outlets with wet hands.
• Do not force a breaker that will not reset.
• If you detect burning smells, see sparks, or experience repeated tripping, contact your builder if still under warranty or call a licensed electrician immediately.

Quartz is strong, long-lasting, and easy to maintain.

• Unlike granite, it does not need sealing, polishing, or conditioning.
• Wipe up all liquids and do not let them stand.
• Factory sealant can absorb stains from coffee, soda, and similar liquids.
• Quartz is durable, but it can still be damaged if not cared for properly.

Do’s

• Always use pot mats under hot pots and pans.
• Always use a cutting board and do not cut directly on the surface.
• Wipe up spills promptly.
• Clean with mild soap and water using a soft cloth or sponge.
• For deeper cleaning, use quartz-friendly cleaning agents.

Don’ts

• Avoid harsh chemicals or cleaners such as bleach, oil soaps, strong acids, or permanent markers.
• Do not use cleaners with oils, powders, or abrasives.
• Do not scrub with steel wool, Scotch-Brite, or other rough pads.
• Never sit or stand on the countertop, especially at seams or bridge sections.

Cleaning

• Vacuum with a floor attachment to pick up dust and dirt.
• Ensure the vacuum attachment is free of any objects that may scratch the flooring.
• Damp mop when needed using a laminate flooring safe cleaner.
• Do not leave standing product on the floor.
• Avoid mop-and-bucket cleaning or steam mops.
• Dry flooring after mopping to prevent streaks.
• For tough stains such as ink or paint, use a cloth with methanol hydrate or household solvent.
• Test in a hidden spot first.
• To remove gum or tar, let it harden and then carefully scrape it with a plastic scraper.

Ambient Conditions

• Maintain humidity between 25–30% year-round.
• Use ventilation, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and heating as needed to keep conditions stable.

Protection

• Use carpet matting and/or felt padding under furniture feet to prevent wear and tear.
• Regularly check and replace worn protectors or casters to avoid scratches.
• Trim pets’ nails often to prevent wear and scratches.

Cleaning

• Vacuum with a floor attachment to pick up dust and dirt.
• Ensure the vacuum attachment is free of any objects that may scratch the flooring.
• Clean with a luxury vinyl flooring approved cleaning agent.
• Damp mop when needed, using a vinyl-safe cleaner.
• Do not leave standing product on the floor.
• Avoid mop-and-bucket cleaning or steam mops.
• Dry flooring after mopping to prevent streaks.
• For tough stains such as ink or paint, use a cloth with methanol hydrate or household solvent.
• Test in a hidden spot first.
• To remove gum or tar, let it harden and carefully scrape with a plastic scraper.
• Too much moisture underneath can cause mould or mildew on the subfloor.

Room Conditions

• Use ventilation, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, or heating as needed to keep flooring products within tolerances.

Protection

• Use matting and/or felt padding under furniture feet to prevent unwanted wear and tear.
• Regularly check and replace worn protectors or casters to avoid scratches.
• Trim pets’ nails often to prevent wear and scratches on flooring products.