Kolter Homeowner Guide

Ceilings &Walls

HOME TIP: Some attics and garages have ceiling outlets. Avoid using them to support ceiling fans or light fixtures that weigh more than 50 pounds.

The ceilings and walls in your home are made of high-quality materials.

Care and maintenance The following are tips for maintaining your ceilings and walls. Interior ceilings and walls The drywall that makes up your ceilings and walls will last the life of your home, if properly maintained.

HOME TIP: Avoid exposing latex paints to extreme cold or heat which can reduce their lifespan. Stored in moderate temperatures, latex paints won’t deteriorate for two years. Do not paint when the ceiling or wall temperature is above 90 degrees or below 45 degrees.

CAUTION: If you want to hang anything from the ceiling, do so from a ceiling joist. Drywall ceilings are not designed to bear weight.

Use a mild soap to clean spots. Avoid scrubbing which could cause staining.

Inspect ceilings and walls for condensation or mold. Call for service if you locate any.

Surface repair New homes shrink over time. As this occurs, you likely will notice minor cracks or spots where nail or screw heads have popped out. Make repairs only when you plan to paint the entire room. Cracks Use elastomeric caulk, which is designed to fill large gaps and can be painted, to fill cracks. Indentations Use a joint compound (the same used during the drywall mudding and taping process) to fill indentations. It likely will require two to three applications. Sand the area with a fine-grit sandpaper and repaint.

Avoid washing new paint for a few months to allow it time to dry fully and set.

Remove dust from acoustical ceilings by vacuuming them gently.

Extend the time before repainting by keeping heating and cooling system air filters clean, turning on exhaust fans when bathing or cooking, and removing dust before it has a chance to collect.

HOME TIP: If you live in an attached home, such as a condo or townhome, you may hear sound from neighboring units.

HOME TIP: Do not put too much weight on closet rods.

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