Here you will find the most commonly asked warranty questions. If you need more assistance, please read the page titled warranty procedures, for information on submitting a warranty request.

#1 Concrete Cracking in slabs (garage or basement floors) - This is a common question as hairline cracks tend to develop in any large concrete pours. This is a very common situation, and does not indicate poor quality or a "bad mix" of the concrete. Since the Basement floor, and garage slab are not structural to the home, these generally pose little cause for concern. The following passages deal with performance standards for concrete slabs, and can be found in your RWC booklet which you received at closing.

Section (b), Item 2: Cracking of basement floor

Performance Standard: Minor cracks in concrete basement floors are common. Cracks exceeding one quarter inch width, or one quarter inch in vertical displacement is a deficiency.

Builder Responsibility: Repair cracks exceeding maximum tolerance by surface patching or other methods, as required.

Performance standard: Cracks in garage floor slabs in excess of one quarter inch in width, or one quarter inch in vertical displacement is a deficiency.

Builder Responsibility: Repair excessive cracks by chipping out and surface patching, or other methods, as required.  

#2  Basement Walls are damp - It is very common in new construction to have damp basement walls. Until the backfilled ground along the exterior of your foundation becomes compact, and stabilized, the ground actually acts like a sponge absorbing runoff water and allowing it to slowly seep into the concrete block that makes up your basement. In time as the ground around the home becomes settled the runoff will not penetrate the ground as easily and instead run away from the home. A couple of things that will help more quickly alleviate the dampness in the basement walls is to be sure your gutters are clear, and directed away from the house. During the first year you should also check the grade directly against the house to be sure it pitches any water away. Fill in any areas that have settled to prevent water from standing against the home. You can find more information in your Warranty booklet you received at the closing under section (f) item #1.

#3  Concrete Walkways, and Porches are "flaking" - This condition is known as spalling. Its when the actual surface layer of the concrete "flakes" off, exposing the rough pitted surface, and blue stones below. This is caused by putting a De-icing product on the cement. Rock salts, and some de-icers will spall concrete, and there are warnings on most every bag. Aspen building does not recommend the use of de-icing products, and will not warranty damage as a result of their use.

#4  Is there anything special I should do to prepare for the coming season? - There are always maintenance issues involved with owning a new home. We have provided a section which we update at least quarterly to help with some of these types of questions. You can see what Aspen recommends by clicking here.