It’s exciting to move into a new house, especially if it’s brand new and you are the first owner. As the new home dries and settles, there are some things you should be aware of.
This guide will help you understand what to expect from your new home.
Both of You Are “Settling Down”
Why are little cracks and bulges showing up in my brand-new home? Minor flaws (which are easily fixed) are part of the life cycle of a new home. While you are settling in to your new home, so is the house.
All new constructions “settle”. The foundations may move slightly as they shift their weight downwards.
Your new home will also be drying out at the same time. The building materials were exposed to the weather during construction, and now they need to dry out.
In general, it takes 9 to 12 months for the new home to dry and settle completely. The exact time depends on when it is, what materials are used and the terrain in the area. We can give you an accurate estimate.
Shrinkage on a New Build
When building materials dry out and shrink, they cause hairline cracks. This is most common around weaker areas such as windows and doors. They are not structurally significant, but if the crack is larger than 5mm ask your builder for a check. Nail pops are another sign. This is a raised lump on the ceiling or walls. It’s caused by shrinkage of timber and plaster.
Efflorescence on Newly Constructed Homes
Salts are the white deposits that you may see on your home’s internal and exterior walls as it dries. They are easy to wipe away and should diminish over time. Speak to your builder if the efflorescence persists. It could indicate that water has entered somewhere.
New Build Condensation
When a building is new and drying out, it is more susceptible to condensation. It can be a frustrating part of moving into a newly built home. However, it can be easily managed with proper ventilation. The bathrooms and kitchens of your new home are equipped with extractor fans that will help.
How to Settle Your New Home
You can take a few easy steps to ensure that your new home settles in smoothly.
Maintain a constant temperature in your home. It may seem like a good idea to turn up the heat to accelerate the drying process. However, this will only increase shrinkage. Keep the heat at a comfortable temperature.
It helps dry the building. This also reduces condensation. You can also encourage airflow by opening your windows.
You can open your trickle vents in the winter instead of the windows. It will still allow for a good airflow but you won’t be as cold.
Speak to us if you are concerned that cracks or condensation may be worsening, or settling slower than expected.
Decorating Your New Home in the First Year
We advises not to decorate a new home during the first year. Your builder’s coat of paint forms a special breathable layer which allows the walls to air dry. Normal paint or wallpaper creates a barrier, delaying or preventing drying.
Wait until the new paints and wallpapers have settled before you splash out on them. Start by filling in and sanding any cracks or nail pops before you start decorating. This will give your home a flawless and smooth finish.
It can be frustrating to wait until you have a blank canvas. You can also personalize your home by changing the lighting or adding artwork, and soft furnishings in your chosen colour palette.
Delaying the redecoration will also allow you to make the best choices. You’ll learn about the effects of natural light on the rooms as you get to know the new house. This can have a huge impact on how you choose to decorate.
How to Care for a New Garden
The front garden is landscaped and fencing is included in new build homes. However, the rest of the garden design will be left up to the homeowners. The first year of a new home is an exciting time to create a garden. However, the results you achieve will depend on the season.
You should turf your garden as quickly as possible. Otherwise, you may increase the likelihood of water pools and wash away the topsoil.
It will take six to eight weeks for a newly laid lawn to become established. Try to avoid walking on the lawn too much and wait until it has settled before you start landscaping. We has some great advice on how to care for your new lawn.
Making a Snagging List
You’re covered for two years by the building warranty when you purchase a new house. During this time, it’s vital that you report any problems. There are some things you should be aware of, such as hairline cracks or efflorescence.
Make a list of all your concerns. You can use the following examples to create your snagging checklist for a new builds in Auckland:
- All kitchen appliances, including radiators and heaters.
- The sanitary ware should be free of any leaks, drips and niggles.
- Open, close and lock doors and windows easily.
- All sockets and lights work.
- The tiles are fixed firmly with no gaps or slippages in the grout.
- All detectors and alarms are reliable.
- All fitted furniture (such as wardrobes and kitchen cabinets) is well-assembled.
Buying a New Home
You can be sure that we will take care of you when you purchase a brand new home. We will keep in touch to guide you through the first year of your new home and to answer any questions you may have. Learn more about our support and help for new customers.
