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If you notice a lack of power at a bathroom, kitchen, or other wet area outlet, the issue is often a simple GFCI reset . Dishwashers and other appliances in these areas may also be connected to a GFCI, so they can be affected as well. Why GFCI Receptacles Trip GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) receptacles are installed wherever moisture is common in a home—basements, bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and exterior locations. They are designed to quickly shut off power if they detect a ground fault, protecting you from electrical shock. Because they are sensitive to moisture, GFCIs can occasionally trip even without a real fault. Where to Find the Reset If an outlet isn’t working, check for the GFCI reset . The reset button may be located: On the outlet itself At another outlet on the same circuit In the electrical panel GFCI Self-Test Feature All modern GFCIs include an automatic self-test function that periodically checks if the device can respond to a ground fault. If a problem is detected, the GFCI will trip, denying power or providing a visual/audible alert. GFCI Status Indicators Green Status Initial installation : No power may indicate the device is wired incorrectly. Normal operation : Device has passed self-test and is providing power. Red Status Blinking : Initial self-test upon first power-up. Solid or blinking : Press TEST and RESET buttons to reset the GFCI. No Power Device is in a tripped state. Press the RESET  button. If the GFCI does not reset, check that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped or that power is available to the panel. Bottom Line GFCI outlets are a critical safety feature in moisture-prone areas and installed in all Outlook Homes. If an outlet loses power, it’s usually a quick reset away. Regular testing and understanding GFCI operation helps ensure both safety and functionality in your home. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com

As a home is being built, it’s natural for homeowners to worry about rain or snow exposure to the lumber and other building materials. However, modern construction materials and practices are designed to withstand the elements without compromising the structure’s integrity or causing any long-term issues. Here’s why you can rest easy when you see your home’s framing or subflooring exposed to weather during construction. Lumber and Weather Resistance The wood used in construction is specifically grown, treated, and/or designed to handle temporary (180-200 days) exposure to moisture. First, and foremost remember lumber ‘grows’ outside, sits at mills outside, ships on rail cars outside, and sits at lumberyards outside. In fact, the coverings on lumber used for shipping is not even intended to keep it ‘dry’ but is used to prevent fading, dirt exposure, etc. and keep the lumber ‘looking new’. When it rains or snows, the wood may absorb some moisture, but it will dry out naturally once the weather clears. This is a normal and anticipated part of the building process and has happened to lumber in homes being built for hundreds of years. Key Reasons Why Wet Lumber is Safe: Short-Term (180-200 days) Moisture Does Not Cause Damage: Periods of rain or snow will not weaken the structural integrity of lumber. Once the framing is enclosed and dried, any minor swelling will revert, and the wood will remain strong. Designed for Durability: Builders use high-quality materials like kiln-dried structurally graded lumber that resists warping or twisting even after exposure to the elements. Subflooring Designed for the Elements Products like Huber Blue Plus and Huber Advantech subflooring are engineered specifically for outdoor exposure during the construction phase. This premium subflooring can withstand up to 200 days of rain and snow without significant swelling, delamination, or other damage. Why Builders Choose Huber Blue Plus: Superior Moisture Resistance: Its enhanced resin technology prevents water absorption, so it stays flat and stable. Easy Drying: Even after heavy rain, the surface dries quickly and retains its durability. Warranty Assurance: Huber backs their product with a guarantee, giving builders and homeowners peace of mind about its performance. Best Practices for Long-Term Protection While lumber and materials like Huber Blue Plus are designed for temporary exposure, builders take additional steps to ensure your home’s longevity: Dry-In: Once framing and subflooring are complete, roof is added to protect the structure. Substantial “dry-in” period occurs as the mechanicals and electrical are installed in your home prior to any finish materials being installed. Inspection and Sealing: Any minor imperfections caused by weather are repaired or sealed to ensure a long-lasting structure. For example, any swelling that may occur in the subfloor is sanded prior to final flooring installation. Trust the Process It’s important to understand that temporary exposure to weather is part of the normal building process. Every home ever built has been exposed to weather. Given that none of us control the weather some are exposed more than others without causing any ongoing issues. With modern lumber products your home will be built to last, rain or shine. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com

If you’ve ever walked past a freshly poured sidewalk, driveway, or even a bag of concrete from your local Home Depot, you may have noticed small cracks appearing (even larger ones over time). While it can be alarming at first glance, concrete cracking is completely normal and expected —so much so that experts almost guarantee it will occur. According to the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) , cracking is a natural part of how concrete behaves. Even with proper design, construction, and maintenance, concrete is prone to developing cracks due to its inherent properties. Even new concrete can begin cracking almost immediately. Why Concrete Cracks Several common factors contribute to cracking in concrete: Shrinkage  – As concrete cures and dries, it naturally shrinks. This can happen within days of placement and is one of the most common causes of cracks. Thermal Expansion and Contraction  – Concrete expands in warm temperatures and contracts when it cools. Over time, these temperature shifts create stress, which can lead to cracks. Settlement  – Minor settling of a home or surrounding soil is common in new construction, and concrete resting on or near shifting ground may develop cracks. Restraint of Movement  – When concrete is prevented from moving freely, internal stresses build up, which can cause cracking. Managing Cracks While cracking is expected, there are ways to manage it and minimize its impact: Control Joints  – Strategic cuts or joints in the concrete allow it to crack in a controlled, less noticeable way. Outlook Homes cuts control joints in all our large concrete pours. While we do this there is no guarantee concrete will crack at the joints only. Proper Reinforcement  – Steel rebar or wire mesh can help limit the width of cracks and maintain the integrity of the concrete. Are Cracks Dangerous? Most concrete cracks are non-structural . They do not affect the performance, strength, or durability of the concrete. Think of cracks as a natural “relief valve” for the material—it’s simply the concrete adjusting to its environment. Bottom Line Concrete cracking is normal, expected, and almost guaranteed, whether in your driveway, basement slab, garage, porch, or even a bag of pre-mixed concrete from a local store. While the sight of a crack might be concerning, in most cases, it is purely cosmetic and does not indicate a structural problem. Proper design, control joints, and reinforcement help manage cracking and ensure your concrete remains strong and functional for years to come. The RWC Warranty provided with an Outlook Home also states, “Shrinkage cracks are common and should be expected.” Builder will correct cracks which exceed 1/4 in. in width or vertical displacement. Surface patching and epoxy injections are examples of acceptable repair methods. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com

If you’ve ever noticed water droplets forming on the inside of your windows, you’re not alone. Window condensation is a common occurrence in many homes, and while it might seem like a problem, it’s usually a normal reaction to changing temperatures and indoor humidity levels. Why Does Window Condensation Occur? Condensation most commonly happens when warm, moist indoor air comes into contact with a cold window surface. The colder the window, the more likely it is that moisture in the air will condense into water droplets. This is the same process that causes a cold drink to “sweat” on a warm day. During cold months of the year, indoor air tends to be warm and hold more moisture, while outdoor temperatures cause windows to become much colder. This temperature contrast leads to condensation, especially on energy-efficient windows that create a tight seal, reducing airflow that might otherwise help disperse moisture. The Role of Indoor Humidity Home humidity plays a big role in how much condensation you see. If your indoor humidity levels are too high, moisture will collect on windows more easily. Signs of excessive humidity include condensation on windows, damp spots on walls, and even musty odors. To manage humidity, consider using a hygrometer to monitor indoor levels. Ideal indoor humidity in winter is between 30% and 50%—if it’s higher, using a dehumidifier or running exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms can help. How Window Coverings Affect Condensation Blinds, curtains, and drapes can also impact window condensation. When closed, they limit airflow around the window, trapping warm, humid air against the glass. This increases the likelihood of condensation forming. Keeping window coverings slightly open allows better air circulation, reducing moisture buildup. Is Window Condensation a Concern? In most cases, condensation on windows is normal and simply a sign that your home is well-sealed. However, excessive moisture over time can lead to mold growth or damage window frames. If condensation persists, it may be worth checking for high humidity levels. If humidity levels are high you may need to run a dehumidifier in your home. By managing humidity and allowing proper airflow around windows, you can minimize condensation while keeping your home comfortable through the winter months. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com

Hydrostatic water pressure is the force exerted by water in the soil against a home’s foundation walls and floor. This pressure increases when groundwater levels rise due to heavy rain, melting snow, or poor drainage. Because water is heavy—about 62.4 pounds per cubic foot—even moderate amounts can create significant force against the foundation. How Hydrostatic Pressure Can Cause Unexpected Leaks Unlike typical moisture seepage, which usually occurs at visible cracks or weak points, hydrostatic pressure can push water through even the smallest openings, leading to leaks in areas that might not normally be vulnerable, such as: Floor-to-wall joints  – Water can penetrate where the basement floor meets the walls, even if originally well-sealed. Porous concrete  – Foundation walls and slabs, even without visible cracks, can absorb and transmit moisture under high pressure. Expansion joints  – Areas meant to allow natural movement can unintentionally become pathways for water intrusion. Pipe or conduit penetrations  – Water can force its way around utility penetrations that were previously watertight. Other Effects of Hydrostatic Pressure Basement leaks  – Water seeks the path of least resistance, even in previously dry areas. Wall bowing or cracking  – Excessive pressure can weaken foundation walls, causing bulging or structural cracks. Floor heaving  – Water trapped under the basement slab can lift and crack the concrete. Mold and mildew growth  – Damp conditions can lead to mold and poor indoor air quality. How to Reduce Hydrostatic Pressure and Prevent Leaks At Outlook Homes, we do everything possible to prevent water intrusion, installing all proper drains and following industry best practices. Despite these precautions, water issues can still occasionally occur due to conditions beyond our control. Measures to reduce hydrostatic pressure include: Improve grading  – Ensure the ground slopes away from the foundation to redirect water. Maintain gutters and downspouts  – Extend them away from the house to prevent pooling near the foundation. Install drainage systems  – French drains, footing drains, sump pumps, and proper drainage away from problem areas. Waterproof the foundation  – Exterior membranes, sealants, and interior waterproof coatings help block water intrusion. Superior Walls foundations, made with 5,000 PSI concrete, are highly water resistant. Even homes with no previous water issues can experience leaks under increased hydrostatic pressure. Proper grading, drainage, and waterproofing are essential for minimizing risk—but no home is completely immune. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com

Understanding Minor Drywall Cracks in a Home Even in your new Outlook Home you may start noticing small cracks in the drywall, grout, or caulk. While this might seem concerning, rest assured—these minor cracks are completely normal and not a sign of structural issues. Why Do Cracks Appear? Homes naturally expand and contract due to changes in temperature, humidity, and seasonal weather. This movement can cause minor shifts in materials, leading to small, cosmetic cracks. Some common reasons include: ‘Settling’ of the Home – As the home adjusts to its environment, the foundation and framing lumber may experience slight movement and/or deflection. Expansion & Contraction – Temperature and humidity changes cause materials like drywall, grout, and caulk to expand and shrink, leading to minor cracks over time. Drying of Building Materials – Lumber, paint, and other construction materials continue to dry out in the months after construction, which can cause small separations in joints. Where Are Cracks Most Common? Drywall Joints & Corners – Thin cracks in drywall seams, especially where walls meet ceilings, are common. Caulked Areas – Caulked joints around trim, windows, and doors may develop slight separations as materials shift. Tile Grout – Small cracks in grout lines, particularly in areas with high moisture, can appear as materials settle and move. Door & Window Headers - Small cracks in drywall are common over doors and windows (often diagonal in nature and at the upper corners). The framing in these areas often includes structural headers and various support studs with weight / loads bearing down on such locations. This can cause slight movement / settling in the framing structure and is most often considered normal. Different material types - Oftentimes where two different types of framing materials come together cracking is more common. For example, where an LVL beam connects to a SPF (spruce, pine, fir) lumber post the two different material types move slightly differently and may cause cracking to occur. Varying loads - Some areas of homes have “loads” that vary. The variation in loads can cause slight movement in a home. For example, snow on a roof in the winter adds weight/load to various points in the house. This extra weight can create slight movements and thus cause some cracking in those areas. Should You Be Concerned? In most cases, these minor cracks are purely cosmetic and do not indicate any structural problems. They can be easily repaired with some touch-up caulk, spackle, or grout filler. A Normal Part of Homeownership Minor cracking is something all homeowners experience, even in older homes. It’s a natural part of a house adjusting to its environment and will likely occur for the life of the home. Periodic maintenance, like re-caulking and minor patching, helps keep everything looking fresh and well-maintained. If you ever have concerns about a specific crack, feel free to reach out, but in most cases—relax! These small imperfections are just part of a home’s natural aging process. See als o Understanding the Impact of Northeastern Climate on Your Home for related information. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com

Doors in your new home may begin to rub slightly when opening or closing. It’s actually quite common, especially during your first year in the home—and usually nothing to worry about. Common Causes of Door Rubbing New homes undergo a natural “settling in” period. During this time, several normal factors can contribute to minor door misalignments: Drying Lumber: The wood used to frame the home, as well as doors themselves, often contains residual moisture. As the lumber dries out over time, it can shrink slightly, leading to subtle shifts in alignment. Initial Usage: As doors are used for the first time, the weight and movement can cause the hinges to settle or sag a bit, especially on heavier doors like solid-core ones. Lumber Deflection: Even properly installed framing can experience minor deflection or bowing as the structure adjusts to loads and seasonal changes in temperature and humidity. These small shifts can cause doors to rub at the top, bottom, or latch side. Simple Fixes You Can Try Most door rubbing issues are quick and inexpensive to resolve: Tighten the Screws: The most common cause of a sagging door is a loose screw in the top hinge. Tightening the screws—or better yet, replacing short screws with longer 2½–3" screws that anchor into the framing—can often lift the door back into position. Adjust the Hinges: If the door still rubs, try slightly bending the hinge leaf with a crescent wrench to adjust the door’s swing or spacing. Plane the Door Edge: In rare cases, especially with stubborn rubbing at the top or bottom, a small amount of material can be sanded or planed off the door edge. Be sure to refinish any exposed wood to prevent moisture damage. Check for Seasonal Changes: Humidity can cause doors to expand or contract. If the issue only occurs during certain seasons, it may resolve on its own or require only minimal adjustment. As always, during your one-year warranty period you can also submit a warranty claim, and we will evaluate and address door adjustments during your warranty service appointment. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com

Occasionally an exposed Superior Walls hairline cracks will occur. These cracks may be up to 1/16” (the thickness of a dime) in width. They sometimes travel from rough opening headers up or down the wall. They are NON-STRUCTURAL, posing no threat to the integrity or strength of a Superior Wall System. They will not leak and do not threaten your warranty in any way. Do NOT cut away the insulation board to view the crack from the inside of the foundation. If you should care to cover them for cosmetic reasons for your own peace of mind, we recommend the following procedure: 1.Use a high-quality acrylic latex paint of a compatible color, thickened with Portland cement if necessary. Work the mixture into the crack using a small stiff brush. More than one application may be necessary. For cracks which will end up below grade we will be happy to supply you with a tube or two of Superior Seal. This is easy to apply over the crack using a standard caulking gun and will not be visible due to backfill. Allow 24 hours for curing before backfill. It needs to be understood that, unlike other masonry structure, cracks in Superior Walls are almost never stress related. The design of the product is that the strength members are the bond beams and concrete studs. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com

Condensation in garages is a common issue that many homeowners overlook. Excess moisture in your garage can come from a variety of sources which are almost never construction related, and if ignored, it may cause structural damage, ruin stored belongings or create unhealthy conditions. Fortunately, there are several effective steps you can take to control condensation in your garage and protect your home. What Causes Garage Condensation? Condensation happens when moisture in the air comes into contact with a cold surface, forming water droplets. While this might seem minor, persistent condensation can cause: Damage to your garage’s walls Rust on vehicles, tools, and storage cabinets Mold and mildew growth, which can pose health risks Moisture problems in garages can occur in all climates—whether from freezing winters followed by spring humidity, or in warmer regions with high humidity and occasional temperature swings. Common sources of condensation include: Rainwater or melting snow brought in by parked cars Appliances like fridges or freezers running in unventilated garages Inadequate ventilation Improper garage heating Moisture and/or ground heat from floor drains Seasonal shifts in temperature and humidity Ways to Reduce Garage Condensation Garage condensation can typically be managed with some preventative measures and improvements. Control the Garage Temperature Using a heater in winter helps stabilize temperatures and minimize condensation. Avoid propane heaters, which emit water vapor. Dry Your Vehicle Before Parking During rainy or snowy seasons, take a few minutes to dry off your car before parking. This simple habit reduces the amount of water entering your garage. Improve Ventilation Good ventilation balances indoor and outdoor air, preventing excess moisture buildup. Crack any windows, open garage door regularly, or install a ventilation fan. Inspect Drainage Ensure your garage’s floor drains, drainage in front of garage door, and downspouts are clear of debris. Poor drainage can lead to leaks and increase condensation issues. Apply a Epoxy Floor Coating An epoxy floor coating creates a durable, protective seal that lowers condensation levels. Install a Dehumidifier A dehumidifier is a straightforward way to reduce moisture in the garage. Be sure to empty its water tank regularly, or connect it to a drainage hose. Remove Old Appliances Old fridges or freezers in unheated garages are moisture culprits. Their drip pans collect water quickly, and condensation often forms on their exteriors when temperatures fluctuate. Reduce Clutter Clutter reduces airflow, making it easier for condensation to form. Free up space by installing smart storage solutions. Protect Your Garage and Home Condensation in your garage may seem like a small problem, but over time it can lead to rust, structural damage, and mold growth. By understanding what causes condensation and following preventative steps you can safeguard both your garage and the valuable belongings inside it. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com

Customers sometimes have questions about their new home’s efficiency or perhaps notice small gaps around doors and windows. To address these concerns, every Outlook Homes home goes through multiple quality checkpoints. During construction, your home receives thorough air sealing and insulation inspections. Insulation is evaluated as part of the entire building envelope, not just in isolated areas. Finally, as part of the final inspection process, we perform a blower door test to confirm that your home meets today’s energy efficiency standards and is performing the way it should. Blower Door Test A blower door test is a simple but powerful way to measure how “tight” your home is against air leaks. During the test, a special fan is temporarily mounted in an exterior door. The fan pulls air out of the house, lowering the indoor pressure. This makes any outside air sneak in through cracks, gaps, or unfinished areas. Sensitive gauges then measure how much air is moving through the fan, which shows us the overall leakage rate of your home. So, while you may notice what seem like small ‘air leaks’, your home has passed the blower door test. This means any minor leaks you may find are within acceptable limits, and your home meets or exceeds all building code standards for energy efficiency. Why does this matter? Energy Efficiency – These inspections and tests confirm your home meets or exceeds all code standards making it very energy efficient. Comfort – Again, since your home passed all inspections and tests it is considered a very tight home which helps prevent drafts and keeps temperatures more consistent from room to room. Durability – Reducing uncontrolled airflow helps minimize moisture problems that can lead to damage over time. Code Compliance – Pennsylvania building codes require new homes to achieve an air leakage rate of less than 3 CFM (cubic feet per minute) per square foot, and the blower door test verifies that your home meets this standard. At Outlook Homes, we use the results of the blower door test to confirm that your home is built to today’s standards and to identify any areas where sealing improvements may be needed. Such improvements are made prior to your occupancy of the home, and the home is retested until we meet or exceed the 3 CFM standard. It’s one more step in our commitment to delivering you a high-quality, efficient, and comfortable new home. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com

LED light bulbs and fixtures can occasionally flicker or flash , and while this can be frustrating, it is unfortunately fairly common. In most cases, the cause is minor and can be resolved with a few simple checks. Below are the most common reasons this occurs, along with recommended steps to help identify and correct the issue. Common Causes & Recommended Solutions Power Voltage Fluctuations LED bulbs are sensitive to changes in voltage. If the electrical supply is inconsistent, the bulb may flicker as it tries to maintain a steady output. This condition is typically related to the utility provider and is outside the control of both the homeowner and Outlook Homes. Fortunately, this cause is rare. Recommendation:  If voltage fluctuations are suspected contact the power company. Incompatible Dimmer Switches Not all LED bulbs or fixtures are compatible with all dimmer switches. While Outlook installs LED-compatible dimmers , compatibility can still vary by bulb or fixture type. Recommendation:  Try a different brand or style of LED bulb designed for use with dimmers. Defective Bulb or Driver LED bulbs and fixtures rely on an internal driver to regulate electrical current. If this component is defective or beginning to fail, flickering may occur. Recommendation:  Replace the bulb or fixture to see if the issue resolves. Appliances on the Same Circuit (Most Common Cause) LED lights may flicker when appliances share the same electrical circuit. Even small appliances—such as a toaster—can momentarily draw power or emit electrical interference that affects LED lighting. Recommendation:  Turn off or unplug nearby appliances to see if the flickering stops. If it does, the appliance is likely the source. Replace the appliance, move it to another circuit, or contact the appliance manufacturer. Unfortunately, Outlook Homes cannot correct flickering caused by appliances. Summary In most cases, LED flickering can be resolved by: Replacing incompatible or defective bulbs Testing a different bulb brand or type Turning off or relocating appliances on the same circuit If you continue to experience flickering after trying these steps, please feel free to reach out so we can help guide you further. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com

As a new Outlook Homes homeowner, it’s important to understand how the unique climate of the northeastern United States can affect your home over time. The region’s climate is marked by distinct and extreme seasonal changes—hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters—each playing a significant role in how your home responds to the environment. How Seasonal Changes Affect Your Home Summer Humidity and Swelling In the summer months, the northeastern U.S. experiences high levels of humidity. This increased moisture in the air can cause materials like lumber, drywall, and even flooring to absorb water and swell. For example, wooden doors may become harder to close, and minor bulges might appear in certain areas. Winter Dryness and Contraction As winter arrives, the air becomes dry, and heating systems further reduce indoor humidity. This lack of moisture causes materials to contract. During these months, you might notice small gaps forming in caulk lines, grout, trim work, and wooden doors may shrink, making them easier to open and close. Cabinets and tops may even separate from walls. Drastic Temperature Swings Northeastern winters can bring subzero temperatures and heavy snowfall, while summers often feature heatwaves and high temperatures. These fluctuations in temperature cause additional stress on building materials as they expand and contract with the changing conditions. What Does This Mean for Your Home? The movement of materials due to these seasonal changes is a natural and unavoidable part of homeownership in this region. You might notice: Cracks in drywall or plaster: These are often hairline cracks caused by the natural movement of walls and ceilings. Gaps in caulk or grout: These materials are flexible but may pull away slightly from adjoining surfaces during contraction. Changes in doors and windows: Slight swelling or shrinking of frames and jambs is typical. Cabinet and top separation: Gaps may form between cabinets and tops and walls. Countertop backsplash grout/caulk may crack. Why This Is Normal While it might feel concerning to see these changes in a brand-new home, they are completely normal and do not indicate structural problems. Homes are dynamic and respond to their environment, particularly in a region with such dramatic weather changes. How to Protect Your Home Here are a few tips to minimize and manage these natural changes: Monitor indoor humidity: Aim for a humidity level between 30-50% year-round. Use humidifiers in winter and dehumidifiers in summer as needed. Inspect and maintain caulk and grout: Regularly check and touch up these areas to prevent gaps from becoming larger. Address drywall cracks: Use spackling compound to repair hairline cracks and repaint for a refreshed look. Allow for seasonal adjustments: Understand that doors and windows may behave differently in summer versus winter. When to Call for Help If during your warranty period you notice significant issues like wide cracks in walls or doors that will not open or close properly regardless of the season, these could indicate the need for a warranty claim so we can address it for you. However, in most cases, the changes you see are a natural part of the northeastern climate’s effect on your home. At Outlook Homes, we’re here to support you through every stage of homeownership. Seasonal changes can feel intimidating, but understanding and adapting to them will ensure your home stays comfortable and beautiful for years to come. Outlook Homes | outlookhomes.com