IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR HOMEOWNERS
ACTION REQUIRED BY THE HOMEOWNER
Your new home is warranted for a period of 1 year from the date of despatch from our factory. Your home is also covered by an extended 10 year limited structural warranty which also starts from the date of despatch.
You should satisfy yourself that your plumbing, electrical and oil systems have been commissioned by a registered contractor and certificates of conformity provided
You should ensure that your warranties have been activated by the Park/Landowner. Your warranties may be invalidated if not activated within the time limits. Your statutory rights are not affected.
If the park has not activated the 10 year limited structural warranty, please complete the warranty registration form on Page 57 and send it to the address provided within 7 days of taking ownership of the home.
On taking receipt of your new home, please check with your park/landowner to ensure that any damages, snagging or settlement issues have been reported at the appropriate intervals. Should any issues be found, please liaise with your park.
Should you take possession of your home before the snagging and settlement reporting intervals have elapsed, please ensure that you carry out these inspections and send your reports to your park who will liaise with our Customer Care team on your behalf.
Should you sell your home at any time in the future, we would ask that this manual is passed onto the new owner and the transfer of ownership documentation completed (see page 53)
TRANSPORT, SITING, COMMISSIONING AND FINISHING
Your home will be transported and sited by competent contractors employed by either the Park or by Prestige to transport your home safely to the Park.
Transport and Siting
External siting (jacked up, supported, level and watertight) of your home will include the items below and will be carried out by the transport and siting contractor:
• Removal of all plywood strips.
• Removal of timbers.
• Removal of sheeting and ridge timbers.
• Jack up home off its wheels and on to the stands provided.
• Positioning and levelling of axles.
• Levelling of the home
• Ensuring the home is watertight.
• Levelling of the exterior doors.
• Ensure internal walls and ceilings are level and screwed in place.
• Removal of all redundant materials, sheeting, timbers and screws, to leave the siting area debris free.
• Anchoring of the home to the ground using the hold down points provided.
Commissioning
Commissioning is the responsibility of the Park / Landowner. Prior to you taking residence of your home, the Park / Landowner should have:-
• All site services including gas, water and electricity (as required) connected. Please note, it is the responsibility of the commissioning engineer(s) to:
Pull through any electrical cables, that require doing so, between the two halves of the home;
Connect any water pipes and electric cables that run between the two halves of the home;
Connected all waste pipes from all appliances and sanitaryware to the drain system beneath the home;
Make good the underfloor insulation/hardboard padding, once all cables have been pulled through and all connections have been made
• All gas appliances and equipment commissioned, tested and certified by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
• All oil appliances and equipment commissioned, tested and certified by an OFTEC registered engineer.
• All electric supplies, circuits and electrical equipment commissioned, tested and certified by an electrician on the register of an accredited body such as NICEIC.
• Domestic water system flushed through, filled and checked for leaks including all feeds and wastes to the sanitaryware.
• Central heating system flushed through, filled, inhibitor added to the system, and the system fired up, tested and checked for leaks including all integrated appliances.
• All smoke and heat detectors set up as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Where remote bases are used, these need to be set to the correct channel to avoid activating alarms in adjacent properties.
• All data connections connected and tested. Prestige supply the Cat 5/6 modules taped to the corresponding cables ready for connection.
• Ensure the home has been cleaned and all waste left by tradesmen has been removed.
Internal Siting and Finishing
The internal siting and finishing of your home will be carried out by our appointed finishing engineers or a nominated subcontractor as determined by the Park, who will complete the following:-
• Install all interior wall and ceiling joining strips and decorate to match the home.
• Complete the floor finishing by laying of any carpet, laminate vinyl, tiling or other flooring.
• Complete all joint covers including coving and skirting (as applicable).
• Adjust all doors to ensure correct closure.
• Assemble and install all furniture as per planned room layout.
• Adjust all furniture and kitchen unit doors and drawers to ensure correct closure.
• Ensure all waste / packaging has been removed and home is builders clean
• Complete a full home inspection and quality check.
We recommend you check with the Park that all of the above works have been completed prior to taking ownership of your new home.
Once you move into your new home, we advise that you take the time to familiarise yourself with your new home. In particular we recommend that you ensure you are aware of the location of your emergency escapes and mains supply cut off points for your gas, water and electricity
Note: Transport, siting, commissioning and internal/external finishing must be carried out by competent and experienced contractors and electrical and gas certificates of conformity issued on completion of works. Failure to ensure the works are completed by competent contractors and the appropriate conformity certificates are available may invalidate the warranties.
BASE OR FOUNDATIONS FOR THE HOME - Responsibility of the Park / Landowner
It is essential that a suitable base or foundation is provided for the home and that service provisions are adequate. Following are the recommendations from the British Holiday and Home Parks Association Ltd for a suitable base, however, please note that these are only recommendations as local site, subsoil and climate conditions vary considerably. Guidance should be obtained from a structural engineer
Lay the site mains services, water, sewer, electricity, gas (if available), storm drain, etc. Terminate them according to position of incoming services as shown on the floor plan of the model being sited It is also recommended that soakaway facilities are allowed for, prior to laying the concrete, to feed the rainwater from the downpipes into the gully to a grating.
As a minimum, a good hard-core base to a depth of 150mm should be laid and well compacted before overlaying with 100mm of steel reinforced concrete mixed as per BS5328 Parts 1 and 2. This requirement may vary according to the local subsoil conditions and additional / more substantial groundworks may be required such as 200mm of hardcore, depending upon size and weight of the home. It is essential that you seek professional advice to ensure that the planned base is capable of taking the weight of the home.
The finished raft should be level in all directions. One or two shallow gulleys can be formed in the concrete to allow water to run off.
Although ideally the foundation raft should be slightly larger in dimension to the floor area of the home; it is acceptable to lay steel reinforced concrete strips roughly 600mm wide x 150mm deep (two for a single unit, four for a twin) to coincide with jacking points However, hard-core and concrete depths should be calculated/increased accordingly Should this option be considered please seek professional advice on the
suitability of the base. Please also liaise with Prestige for detail, to ensure the planned base matches with the technical drawing.
Where the site requires it, and in particular on exposed sites, steel eyes should be cast into the concrete It is recommended that the person responsible for the ground installation for this residential park home provides suitable ground anchorage points to prevent overturning if local climate conditions are likely to result in wind velocities in excess of 48m/s (107mph). Each ground anchor should be capable of resisting a tensile load of 10kN. Hold down points are positioned 1000mm (+/- 200mm) from the ends of each chassis in line with the longitudinal members.
The importance of this foundation cannot be over emphasised - it is essential it is correctly laid in order to provide a stable base and prevent subsidence and structural issues arising.
Unless the concrete axle blocks and axle stands are on a solid raft of concrete the home will subside and doors will not shut, windows will not close and unnecessary vibrations will occur. The home will also be liable to problems with cracking walls and creasing wallpaper in room corners and joints.
To prevent possible issues please ensure that you:
• Do not site on shingle.
• Do not site on tarmac.
• Do not site on concrete slabs.
• Do not site on wooden planks.
• Do not site in an area likely to be affected by flooding.
• Always construct the base relative to the subsoil conditions.
Please note: Prestige will not be held responsible for any defects of the product arising from inadequate or incorrectly laid foundations.
PLUMBING SYSTEM - Responsibility of the Park / Landowner
All joints and pipe work should have been checked by the commissioning engineer for possible leaks before occupation. This check is of utmost importance as compression joints can work loose during transportation and siting.
IMPORTANT NOTE
No water is to be put in the system before the above is checked.
Under no circumstances should the home be left unattended with the main supply turned on until a thorough check has been completed to ensure that there are no leaks in the system.
Most new homes are fitted with condensing combination boilers and the efficiency of the taps and shower to deliver water is dependent on the mains pressure Typical operating pressure is between 1 and 2.5 bar.
The hot water supply to the bath is limited to 48°C by a thermostatic mixing valve, however, the water pressure on site may affect the temperature of the water. The commissioning engineer should check the water pressure and temperature and adjust as necessary prior to the home being occupied.
Do not attempt to extend or repair the plumbing system unless you are a qualified plumber/heating engineer.
Draining Your Home - Responsibility of the Homeowner
If you temporarily vacate your home in the winter, it is wise to take the precaution of draining the plumbing system. It is advisable to have a heating engineer to drain and, more importantly, refill the system. Emptying and filling water pipes without the proper venting of air, will lead to inefficiency of the boiler or even a complete failure of the plumbing/heating operations. If draining down, only do this for the cold and hot water taps. Alternatively, the owner can keep the heating on low, and turn the stop tap off.
The various drain cocks appertaining to the plumbing system can be found under the home. The drain cocks for the heating system and the hot and cold water system are located just under the drip rail at the rear end of the home where possible or under the area of the boiler. The stop cock is easily accessible under the sink or in the boiler cupboard.
To drain the system, turn off the incoming mains water supply and leave the hot and cold taps turned on. Ensure the boiler is also turned off.
On returning to your home the system may be refilled.
IMPORTANT NOTE
The system should be flushed through and inhibitor added, following the same process as for first time commissioning. During the refilling process we recommend that the home should not be left unattended. It is advisable to carry out a thorough check of the system once the mains water has been reconnected to ensure that there are no leaks in the system.
Plumbing Leaks and Faults
In the event of a leak or fault with the plumbing, we advise that you contact your Park Manager in the first instance. Should the Park not be able to resolve the issue and require assistance, they should contact our Customer Care team for advice.
GAS SAFETY - Responsibility of the Park / Landowner
All gas installations on this park home must be tested by a competent person at the time of commissioning.
A signed version of the ‘Advice to Occupiers’ notice which includes the Gas Commissioning Notice will be displayed within your home, usually inside the boiler cupboard. An example of this notice can be found on page 18.
GAS OVENS AND BOILERS - Responsibility of the Homeowner
Always obtain the services of a Gas Safe registered engineer to undertake any gas related work on your home.
Flexible gas hoses shall be inspected regularly for deterioration. Have a competent person renew with an approved type as necessary and not later than the expiry date marked on the hose.
If your home is fitted with an LPG Butane or Propane cooker which is connected to the incoming gas supply by flexible rubber hose, the hose must be colour coded in red. This indicates its suitability for LPG products If your cooker is Natural Gas the hose should be coded in yellow. It is dangerous to use the incorrect colour coded hose.
NB. The red hose will also have a yellow label attached, but this is only to warn the user to turn off the gas cock before disconnecting the hose from the cooker.
Ensure that your boiler is regularly serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions
IMPORTANT NOTE
If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the gas valve and call your gas provider immediately.
Do not turn on any electrical switches.
Open windows and doors to allow ventilation.
LOG BURNERS
To reduce the risk of fire, do not locate soft furnishings or other flammable items within 900mm of the front of the stove as below.
Do not place laundry within this distance to dry.
Do not use glues, solvents or aerosols near to the stove when lit.
Do not leave children or vulnerable people unsupervised when the stove is in use, as it will become very hot and can cause burns.
Ensure the stove and flue have cooled before any cleaning takes place.
The chimney should be swept at least once a year and the stove inspected and serviced annually. Certificates of sweeping should be retained.
ELECTRICITY SUPPLY AND WIRING
Prestige is a registered NICEIC contractor. All our homes are tested within the limits of factory conditions prior to despatch. Please note this is dead testing only.
Prestige can only be held responsible for the correct installation of the electrical wiring system in your home back to the incoming mains board Any defects beyond the point of the incoming site mains board should be taken up with the Park Manager or your electricity supplier as they are responsible for supplying the electrical on-site power to your home All Prestige electrical installations are carried out in full compliance with the IEE Regulations (BS 7671) Earthing is full protective multiple earthing.
As the majority of homes Prestige build are constructed to individual specification, it is not feasible to include a specific wiring diagram for every home If, however, you require information for your particular home, please contact the Customer Care team at the factory address and we will be able to provide you with all the information you will need.
For homes to be sited in the UK, the system comprises of a ring main to all power points with a separate feed to lighting and auxiliary circuits Wired for 230/250 AC single phase 50 cycle main supply.
Power distribution is via a minimum of a 10-way consumer unit (depending on load) fitted with a surge protection device and individually fitted with a 30Ma RCBO for additional protection
Please use the power points provided for operating appliances such as electric blankets, irons, hair dryers etc and ensure that the correct size fuses are fitted to the plugs as recommended by the relevant suppliers.
Please observe the electrical warning notices which are attached to the mains distribution board and its components.
Electrical Faults
In the event of a fault with the electrics in your home, we advise that you contact your Park Manager in the first instance. Should the Park not be able to resolve the issue and require assistance, they should contact our Customer Care team for advice.
ELECTRICAL NOTICE - Responsibility of the Park / Landowner
An electrical note outlining the details below is displayed in the home. Please ensure your follow these procedures – failure to do so will invalidate the warranty.
This installation has been fully tested within the limitations imposed by factory conditions. Final values and supply characteristics will be determined by the site conditions. The live tests have not been recorded.
The installation has been designed to be connected to an electrical supply with the following characteristics:
VOLTAGE: 230/240 VOLTS
FREQUENCY: 50HZ
MAXIMUM PROSPECTIVE SHORT CIRCUIT: 16KA
MAXIMUM DESIGN CIRCUIT: 100A
Final connection and commissioning should be carried out by a competent registered contractor prior to being put into service and an electrical installation condition report, as prescribed in BS7671:2018, must be obtained
Should the local authority require Part P registration, it is the park/homeowners’ responsibility to see this is done.
ADVICE TO OCCUPIERS - Responsibility of the Homeowner
Means of Escape; Fire Action and Precautions; Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Hopefully, you will never experience a fire of any sort, least of all a major one which is rare in the Park Homes Industry However, it does pay to be prepared and this means reading the notice of Fire Action that outlines the appropriate action to take in the event of a fire The notice of Fire Action is including within the ‘Advice to Occupiers’ notice which will be displayed within your home, usually inside the boiler cupboard. An example of this notice can be found on page 18
If you have not taken out a fire insurance policy then we would recommend that you do so as soon as possible. Your insurer can advise you on this subject.
In the interest of your safety we fit a fire alarm system and two carbon monoxide alarms as standard in all homes Your smoke/heat alarms are mains powered with rechargeable lithium batteries. The alarm should be kept free of dust and tested regularly If your alarms have alkaline batteries, change the batteries at least once a year. If your alarms have inbuilt lithium batteries, the batteries should last the lifetime of the alarm (5-10 years depending on the model - please refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for details of the expected lifetime) and the alarm will require replacing at the end of its designated lifetime.
Means of escape windows and doors are provided in the design of your home in line with British standards, to ensure your safe exit from the home, in the unlikely event of a fire. All exterior doors are suitable means of escape and the location of all designated means of escape windows are shown on the floor plan which is included in this handover pack and identified with a sticker as shown below:
Do not remove lock covers or bungs fitted to emergency egress window handles as these are there to facilitate quick egress in an emergency.
IMPORTANT WARNINGS
A 1kg dry powder fire extinguisher and fire blanket are supplied with your home. Please familiarise yourself with the manufacturer’s instructions for these, but also be aware of the guidelines below and the Advice to Occupiers Notice attached to the front of the boiler and page 18.
As a minimum, use a fire extinguisher suitable for domestic kitchens and confined spaces.
A fire blanket is best for use on a liquid fire.
If a fire occurs in the oven, turn off the oven and leave the door closed to smother the fire.
Do not use portable gas or liquid fuel heating equipment because it is a source of danger and could cause fumes, asphyxiation and condensation.
Condensation
Residential park homes manufactured in accordance with BS 3632:2023 have improved vapour control measures, higher thermal performance, and greater airtightness than previously. These measures improve energy efficiency and create a comfortable environment. However, because of these improvements, moisture in the form of airborne water vapour will be sealed within the residential park home and must be actively purged to the outside. To assist, whole home ventilation through background ventilators, purge ventilation through doors and windows, and extraction in all wet rooms has been provided.
Water vapour is produced inside the residential park home from the normal activities of cooking, bathing, laundry, and breathing. The warmer the air inside the residential park home, the more water vapour is suspended in the air.
If the water vapour is not removed, it will travel around the residential park home where it can condensate in cooler, less ventilated areas (such as in wardrobes, behind furniture, etc). As the water-vapour laden air cools, it will reach the ‘dew point’ (the point at which the air temperature can no longer support the water as vapour) where it will condense back into a fluid. If not addressed, this can cause dampness and mould.
Dealing with condensation
• Whenever activity generates moisture, you should turn on mechanical extractors where they have been provided (such as extract fans in wet rooms and cooker hoods in kitchens) because it is most efficient to expel moisture at the point of sources.
• When the activity results in a high level of steam, open doors and/or windows where they have been provided to purge the moisture-laden air. Especially then, but also at other times, leave windows open for a period after the activity to allow the room to air (but do not leave windows and doors permanently open at other times when security is a factor).
• Where possible dry laundry / damp fabrics outside. When you have damp laundry drying indoors, make sure to air your home by open doors and/or windows to allow moisture laden air to escape.
• Do not block ventilators in walls, floors, and/or door and window frames. Doing so will put your health at risk and may invalidate the warranty on the residential park home.
• Use the heating system in the residential park home in cold weather but do not overheat the residential park home as this will increase the condensation risk. Do not turn off heating in rooms that are infrequently used.
Appliance Operating Instruction Manuals and Safety Instructions
All operating manuals and instruction sheets which appertain to the appliances installed in your home can be found in the handover pack supplied with the home. These are specifically for you, the occupier, and should be read and retained for future reference.
It is recommended that the guarantee forms for each appliance are registered with the appliance manufacturer as soon as possible The registration documents for the appliances can be found in this handover pack Alternatively, you can register these online on the appliance manufacturer’s website When registering your appliances, you will be asked for a purchase date Please quote the date you moved into the home, to receive your full guarantee (Please note - this is only applicable to the first owner of the home).
Steel Tiled Roof
Do not attempt to walk on the roof without first taking safety precautions. If you do have occasion to walk on the roof we advise that you use scaffolding or a safety line to protect yourself from falling and that you wear soft shoes and walk on the bottom edge of the tile. If you walk on the top profiles of the tiles they are likely to be distorted and cause permanent damage or leaks, and you may put yourself in danger of a serious fall.
BASE SKIRTING – Responsibility of the Park / Landowner
Prestige highly recommends the fitting of skirting to your home, as it greatly reduces under floor draughts.
Should you decide to fit a skirting between ground level and the underside of the floor of your home, regardless of materials used, it is imperative to ventilate well at points relative to each room and prevent damp penetrating the home. The recommended guidelines specify that the skirting must also be built to allow water to drain and clear of any chassis steel work. The skirting specification should include:
• A minimum 25mm gap between the top of the drip rail and the home. The gap must remain open at all times.
• Skirting should be set back a minimum of 25mm from the lowest part of the wall of the home.
• Ventilator grilles (150cm2 approx.) positioned in the skirting at points relative to each room. For homes with LPG, grilles should be as low as possible and for homes with natural gas, grilles should be as high as possible.
• Where a brick or stone built wall is used it is recommended that it incorporates a damp membrane at 150mm from the ground.
• Sufficient access hatches for inspection and maintenance of the underside of the home and each axle.
Vents should be large enough to provide plenty of air movement under the home This will ensure that the minimum standard is met and provide sufficient air intake for gas appliances which is a mandatory legal requirement It will also help prevent condensation and allows the concentration of gases, fumes etc. to escape in the event of any leaks, however caused, occurring in the home.
If decking is installed, ensure there is a gap of at least 25mm between the decking and the home to allow for drainage, ventilation and movement.
Please refer to diagram overleaf for further guidance on base skirting.
Ventilation
Although not a specific design feature, the wall, window and floor ventilators in your home are there for your protection and are part of the British Standard requirements for fixed area ventilation.
Do not block the ventilators. Keep ventilation screens free of dust by the use of a vacuum cleaner hose. They assist in the proper circulation of air and reduce the risk of condensation.
Ventilators are mandatory in homes with gas appliances as it is essential that specific areas of ventilation are present for both efficient operation of the appliance and for safety reasons. Ventilators may be located at high level above windows, in the window frame or behind coving and walls.
Please note: The location of all ventilators is shown on the floor plan of your home which is included in the handover pack for the home.
IMPORTANT WARNINGS
Do not block the ventilators. The ventilators have been fitted for your safety.
Do not carry out any modification to the structure or fixed installations without first consulting the residential park home manufacturer or a suitably qualified person. Failure to consult the manufacturer/qualified person may invalidate your warranties.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Materials and processes recommended within this handbook must always be used with health and safety in mind. Always make your own assessment of the hazards involved in the work you are about to undertake. To help you assess the precautions you should consider at least the following:
Item Minimum Safety Requirements
Work that involves dust or airborne particles
Work that involves solvent based products
When working under the sited home
If you are working with sharp objects
To work on the roof
Use a dust mask and goggles
Use a filtered face mask
Wear protective headgear
Wear protective gloves
Use scaffolding or a safety line
This list is not an exhaustive list and full consideration should be given to all the potential hazards prior to commencing work.
Please remember that accidents are avoidable when work is correctly planned and risks fully assessed.
IMPORTANT WARNINGS
The structure of the home is made up of timber studs, typically at 600mm centres. There may be extra studs added to take internal fixtures and fittings.
Where cabin/bunk beds are fitted please note the upper bunk is not suitable for children under six years of age.
Cabin/bunk beds are designed for a mattress not exceeding 8” in height. Mattresses exceeding this depth should not be fitted for safety reasons.
Do not carry out any modification to the structure or fixed installations without first consulting the residential park home manufacturer or a suitably qualified person. Failure to consult the manufacturer/qualified person may invalidate your warranties.
Do not work on gas appliances or the gas circuit (pipework) unless you are competent and qualified to do so.
Do not work on the electrical supply, cabling or fittings in your home unless you are competent and qualified to do so.
Always read instruction leaflets and labelling.
If in doubt use the services of a professional tradesman.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF YOUR NEW HOME
GENERAL ROUTINE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Your new home is designed to be low maintenance, but in order for your home to remain in good order, it is necessary to carry out some simple routine cleaning and maintenance. To assist you, our recommended routine maintenance is summarised below and further specific details of recommended maintenance can be found in the following pages.
Item
Bathroom Fittings
Carpeting
Engineered and Laminate
Flooring
Fabrics
Glass
Gloss Worktops
Luxury Vinyl Tiles
Oak Flooring
Stainless Steel Sinks
Taps
Wooden Furniture
High Gloss Cabinets and Doors
Maintenance
Clean with a mild detergent
Vacuum regularly. Only use a suction vacuum for loop carpets.
Frequency
As required
Suction or beater bar vacuums may be used on twist pile carpets. As required
Vacuum or brush with a soft bristled broom As required
Vacuum or brush regularly. As required
Clean with clean water and a leather or with a good proprietary glass cleaner. As required
Clean with a mild detergent or cream cleaner. As required
Brush with a soft bristled broom and wash with a mop. As required
Mop with dust attracting mop. As required
Clean with a mild detergent or cream cleaner. As required
Clean with a mild detergent and a dry with a soft cloth. As required
Dust and remove any abrasive build up. As required
Clean with Vuplex or similar. At new Furnishings
Vacuum fabrics. Dust furniture feet. Plump cushions. Monthly
Engineered Flooring Polish with flooring wood polish.
Wood Worktops
Ceilings and Covings
Internal Door Frames and Architraves, Cills and Skirtings
PVCu Windows and Doors
Timber Cladding (All Types)
Cabinets and Doors (excl. High Gloss)
Coated Timber Cladding
8 Weekly
Apply a coat of wood oil. Quarterly
Wipe with a damp cloth.
Wipe with a damp cloth.
Wash down with a mild detergent and polish with a soft cloth. Clear drainage channels. Clear door tracks.
Clean with a soft brush Inspect for damaged areas and repair as necessary.
Clean with a slightly damp cloth and, if needed, a mild detergent
Wash with hot water and a mild liquid detergent solution. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry. Check for damaged areas and repair as necessary.
Corner steadies and jack stands Clean and grease.
6 Monthly
6 Monthly
6 Monthly
6 Monthly
Annually
Annually
Annually
Door Furniture (Brass) Polish with a proprietary brass cleaner. Annually
Door Furniture (excluding Brass) Clean with a mild detergent. Lubricate locking systems. Annually Exterior cladding (CanExel, Artefoam)
Exterior cladding (Cedral)
Wash down with a mild detergent Remove mildew and moss Repair cracked or loose caulk. Touch in any damage.
Wash down with warm water and a soft brush. Touch in any damage.
Annually
Annually
Fixed Cover Fabric suites Professional cleaning required. Annually Furniture
Check fixings for tightness. Annually
Gutters and Downpipes Inspect for blockages and clean out. Annually
High Gloss Cabinets and Doors Clean with Vuplex or similar. Annually
Roof Inspect roof and ridge tiles. Check seals behind fascias and inspect joins. Renew/reseal if required Annually
Cladding / Stippled homes
Repaint/colour wash as necessary and in line with manufacturer’s instructions. 2-3 Yrs
CHASSIS
In order to retain the statutory definition of a mobile home, wheels should not be removed. However, if for any reason the wheels have been removed after siting then protect the wheel stub with grease.
We recommend that the chassis of your home is inspected annually for any signs of damage or formation of rust. The chassis underneath your home is treated with a protective coating during production. However, in time it may be necessary to re-coat the chassis with a suitable protective coating such as Hammerite. This frequency of this requirement will vary depending on climatic or local conditions.
Mechanical damage to the paint areas will result in a significant reduction in the paint durability Any damage should be identified as early as possible and repaired
Routine inspection and maintenance will address any surface rust that may form. Surface rust is an aesthetic issue and does not affect the structural integrity of your home. Where rust is apparent or the protective coating requires reapplying, the area should be prepared using a wire brush or abrasive paper to remove rust and flaking paint prior to applying a new protective coating.
Should you have any concerns regarding damage or rust formation, we recommend that you seek advice from a suitably qualified engineer.
EXTERIOR CLADDING AND COATING
General
Cladding and aluminium trims should be cleaned at least once annually. A medium/soft sponge should be used with a mild diluted cleaning detergent To prevent streaking, clean on a dry overcast day and avoid direct sunlight. Correct cleaning should prevent any build-up of moss or mildew If any moss or mildew is found it should be removed immediately.
Annually check the cladding edge.
Do not use a pressure washer for cleaning painted wood or wood based cladding. Test any cleaning product to be used on a small area first to ensure it does not damage the finish.
Cracked or loose caulk should be resealed where necessary with colour matching thermoplastic caulk.
Any fixings into the siding should be stainless steel nails or screws.
Do not allow sprinklers or outside showers / taps to spray directly onto the siding and ensure all plants / shrubs are at least 300mm (12”) away from the siding.
Parks and Homeowners - Please note, cladding must not be fitted within 150mm of ground level. Please leave a 25 mm gap between cladding and any skirt base and should decking be installed around cladding please leave a 25mm gap between the cladding and the decking to allow for necessary ventilation.
CanExel Cladding
All CanExel finishes are long wearing and require little maintenance However, for the best results we highly recommend that your Ridgewood, Ultraplank and Ced-R-Vue CanExel is washed annually using nonabrasive household cleaners, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Test cleaners on a small area first to ensure they do not damage the finish. Rinse surface thoroughly after cleaning.
Do not use a pressure washer.
We also recommend that you check the cladding regularly for expansion.
Do not drill or fix anything to the CanExel external cladding, to avoid water ingress and damage to the CanExel.
Drilling into cladding is not recommended and will invalidate the warranty with the CanExel manufacturer, on the affected areas. Should it be absolutely necessary to drill into the cladding:-
1. Only use stainless steel fixings.
2. Any holes should be sealed with an exterior grade silicone.
Remedial Repairs to CanExel Cladding
Check for damage and remove all signs of surface damage by using a suitable abrasive material, ensuring that you blend this into the surrounding areas prior to re-coating.
Colour-matched touch-up paint can be used to repair scratches/small areas (smaller than a two-pence piece). Apply with a cotton bud or the point of a cloth to soak into the raw surface, then immediately rub off the excess with a cloth to prevent a blotchy appearance (as shown in the photographs below). Apply the paint to the affected areas ONLY and allow to dry for approximately 1 hour. For best results, the exterior temperature should be at least 50°F/10°C for 24 hours after application.
To touch up areas of damage on CanExel Cladding:
Note: Always test a small area before use and read the Health and Safety instructions carefully.
Should you wish to fully re-paint your home, please contact the customer care team who will advise you on the manufacturers recommended paints to suit the product, and to avoid risking invalidating your warranties
Thermowood Cladding (Uncoated & Stain Treated)
Thermowood cladding is produced by heat treating selected Scandinavian pine. The process enhances the chemical and physical properties of the cladding, giving it a class 2 durability that conforms to BN/EN 350 and provides approximately 30 years of service life. The heat treatment also causes the colour to darken to an attractive deep brown.
Thermowood Claddings are available as either uncoated or stain treated cladding (3 coats as standard). As a natural wood product, if left uncoated the cladding will fade and change colour with age and exposure to sunlight. In areas with low pollution the cladding will become silver to blond in appearance, with some variation in shades across the cladding profiles. In areas of high pollution, the cladding may darken.
Stain treating enriches and preserves the colour of the cladding, reducing fading and colour change. To maintain stain treated cladding, follow the steps outlined above for Swedish Redwood Cladding.
Maintenance of Treated Cladding
All the external timbers have been coated during the manufacturing process to ensure that they are protected from the elements. This provides you with excellent water, oil, stain and pollution repellence and UV protection.
The coating product is formulated with environmentally friendly ingredients that are water-based, low VOC content, non-toxic, non-hazardous and produce a very low odour.
We recommend that you carry out cleaning and inspection every 6 months to ensure that any issues can be highlighted and repaired as necessary.
Wash with hot water and liquid detergent solution to remove any contaminants, frequently changing the water Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all residues Allow to dry.
Areas affected by algae and mould growth should be treated with a solution of one part household bleach to two parts water. Allow the solution a minimum of 20 minutes to work before washing off with clean water and a stiff nylon bristle (not metallic) brush. Allow to dry.
Remedial Repairs to Coated Cladding
1. On surfaces affected by impact and abrasion, remove all signs of surface damage to the substrate by manually abrading with the appropriate abrasive material Ensure all abrading is undertaken in grain direction and dust is removed. Avoid inhalation of dust.
2. Patch prime any bare timber with one full coat of Cetol WP562 BPD. Ensure end grain is well coated. Only apply in dry weather and allow a minimum drying time of 6 hours.
3. Denib using a fine grade Scotch-Brite Handpad or a fine grade wet and dry silicon carbide abrasive paper. Do not break through the surface coating. Remove all dust. Avoid inhalation of dust.
4. Coat patch primed areas with one or two full coat(s) of Cetol WF915 Ensure end grain is well coated Only apply in dry weather and allow a minimum drying time of 5 hours between coats Two coats may be required to build up film thickness and achieve an even coating and depth of colour.
Redecoration Schedule*
CONSTRUCTION
(Low Altitude, Non-Coastal)
CLIMATE
(Within ½ Mile of the Coast)
(High Altitude or Coastal Area)
(e.g. beneath porch / roof overhang)
Partly Sheltered (e.g. window built into reveal)
Not sheltered (e.g. face of building)
* Please note, the figures given are from Sikkens Industrial Coatings and are approximate. Requirements may differ due to season and climate variations.
Cedar Cladding (Uncoated Western Red Cedar)
Cedar cladding conforms to BS8417, giving approximately 60 years of service life. It is resistant to decay and insect attack and provides good thermal insulation, keeping the home cool in summer and preventing heat from escaping in winter.
As a natural wood product, the cladding will fade and change colour with age and exposure to sunlight. If left uncoated, in areas with low pollution the cladding will become silver-grey in appearance, with some variation in shades across the cladding profiles.
Should you wish to preserve the original colour, we recommend that a protective coating of Osmose UVA Oil is applied, and that the cladding is cleaned at least once a year with a soft brush.
Siberian Larch Cladding (Uncoated)
Siberian Larch cladding is a very strong robust wood with moderate durability and is resistant to rot and fungal attack. It has a class 3 durability giving approximately 30 year service if left uncoated.
As a natural wood product, the cladding will change colour with age and exposure to sunlight. If left uncoated, in areas with low pollution the cladding will weather to a silver grey over a period of one to two years.
Should you wish to preserve the original colour, we recommend that a protective coating of Mighton is applied, and that the cladding is cleaned at least once a year with a soft brush.
PVC Foam Cladding (e.g. Artefoam)
PVC cladding profiles require very little maintenance. We recommend that you clean the cladding at least once a year, depending on the degree of soiling.
Clean the panels and trims using a domestic detergent solution with a temperature not exceeding 40°C. Do not use solvents or similar aggressive and caustic fluids Wash the surface with clean water after cleaning and allow to dry naturally
Fibre Cement Cladding (e.g. Cedral)
Efflorescence or ‘lime bloom’ may occasionally occur on fibre cement cladding due to the cement content of the cladding. This is an entirely natural process that arises due to water dissolving salts within the materials which then migrates to the substrate’s surface leaving a salt deposit after the water evaporates. Efflorescence is usually only temporary and is in no way detrimental to the performance of the product.
Washing with warm water and a soft brush can accelerate the removal of the salt deposits, however care should be taken to avoid damaging the painted surface More stubborn deposits can be removed with 9.5% acetic acid Test on a small area first to avoid damage. Allow the acid to react for a few minutes, but do not allow it to dry out, then wash with plenty of cold water Repeat the procedure if required.
Textured coating (Stipple)
Depending on the exposure to inclement weather conditions, your home will require a colour wash every three to five years to maintain its weatherproof exterior and to keep its fresh, new appearance. The paint used on your home is Resitex /Britmet which is designed for use in the manufacture and refurbishment of park homes.
Any cracks should be sealed with an approved polyurethane sealant.
ROOF
We recommend that annual inspection of the roof and ridge tiles is carried out to ensure they have not been displaced or damaged The seals behind the fascias around the chimney flashings and any joints within the roofing materials should also be inspected annually and renewed/resealed if signs of shrinkage or cracking are apparent.
We advise that an experienced person undertakes this inspection. If you choose to undertake the inspection yourself, do not attempt to walk on the roof without first taking safety precautions to protect yourself from falling
Please Note – Should any damage occur during an inspection, this would not be covered under your warranties and Prestige will not accept liability for any repairs that may be necessary as a result of the damage.
GUTTERS AND DOWNPIPES
The outlet to the downpipes should be inspected annually for blockage either by birds’ nests, moss, leaves or other obstructions. Remove any blockages found and make sure the downpipes are discharging surface water away from the bottom of the home and not under it. It is advisable where possible to discharge rainwater into purpose made soakaways.
PVCU WINDOWS AND EXTERIOR DOORS, GLAZING AND GLASS
PVCu Frames and PVCu Doors
The PVCu windows and doors fitted to your home require very little maintenance. To clean the PVCu, wash down with a mild solution of water and non-abrasive mixture detergent, and then polish the frames with a soft cloth.
To remove stubborn marks on white frames a non-abrasive cream cleaner may be used. On woodgrain foil frames only use soapy water - do not use polish, solvent or an abrasive clean on foil frames as they will damage the foil.
Drainage Channels
Periodically check and clean away any debris from the drainage channels, both in the frame and on the outside of the frame (if drainage caps are fitted outside).
Patio and Bi Folding Door Tracks
Ensure tracks are kept clean and free from debris to allow the smooth running of the wheels.
Glazing and Glass
All the glazing has been manufactured to an exacting standard including toughened glass where appropriate and Low E-panels as standard where necessary. All double-glazed units are hermetically sealed.
Glazing and glass can be cleaned with clean water and a wash-leather or a good proprietary glass cleaner It is important that clean, non-abrasive materials are used to eliminate smears/streaks which may appear under certain light conditions and to prevent scratching of the glass surface.
External Condensation:
Occasionally condensation may form on the external pane of glass on cold mornings. This occurs due to the internal and external temperature differences and is not a fault with the product. The condensation will dissipate as the external temperature rises.
Internal Condensation:
Internal condensation is caused by a number of factors including heat, moisture, air movement and building layout. Taking steps to control the amount of moisture created in a room is the most efficient solution.
Leadwork
Leadwork on glass units will oxidise when exposed to rain. This oxidization may appear as mottled marks on the leadwork. This is a natural process and after a few months the mottling will disappear, and the lead will all be of a dark grey colour.
Locking Hardware
Exterior doors are fitted with a multi-point locking system which operates by lifting the door handle to its maximum, operating the top and bottom locking device, and turning the thumb lock to operate the central lock.
At periodic intervals, lubricate all moving parts on the locking mechanisms and friction stays by spraying with a machine oil such as 3-in-1 (not to be confused with WD40) Regularly wipe down the exposed faceplates with an oiled cloth to maintain the appearance and remove any dirt and dust build-up Where the locks locate into striker plates, lightly grease the strikers with a product such as petroleum jelly to ensure the smooth and positive location of the locks. The cylinder barrel can also be lubricated with machine oil.
Handles
Wipe handles with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime and then dry thoroughly Avoid using a liquid or an abrasive cleaner. Most handles can be tightened with a screwdriver if required, but care is required to avoid over-tightening.
Brass / Satin Nickel products should be cleaned with a cloth moistened with soapy water or alternatively wiped over with a soft cloth with beeswax
Door Frames, Architraves, Cills, Skirtings, Ceilings and Covings
Door frames, architraves, cills and skirtings may be wiped with a damp cloth to remove small marks and repainted as required.
FLOORING
Always have a non-rubber based mat at the front or back doors; this will reduce the amount of dirt and grit brought in from outside and assist in prevent any sharp stones or dirt scratching the floor.
Do not use a rubber or latex based mat - rubber or latex backing on doormats and rubber feet on furniture may cause discolouration of the flooring.
To prevent furniture from marking the flooring, attach felt pads to the feet of chairs and tables. Clean felt pads and castors regularly, check for wear and replace if required. Always lift furniture when moving, rather than pushing or dragging.
Solid Oak Flooring
A dust-attracting mop can be used to clean the floor and keep it dust free.
Use felt pads on the feet of furniture to protect the floor from excessive scratching Heavy scratching will break the seal of the lacquer causing damage to the timber by ingress of dirt and moisture from cleaning.
In general, floors tend to expand in summer when windows and doors are open and the air moist, and shrink in winter, when windows and doors are closed, the heating is on more often and the air is consequently comparatively dry.
Engineered Flooring
Daily cleaning can be done with either a vacuum cleaner or a smooth floor broom. A damp mop or special polish can be used to remove stains, grease and footprints.
We recommend that you polish your floor with a thin layer of wood polish with wax content every 8 to 10 weeks, depending on the level of foot traffic. Do not use traditional wax or steel wool on your floor surface.
Avoid your floor surface coming into contact with hard surfaces such as stones, furniture bases and heeled shoes.
Avoid the room humidity going above or below 45-60%.
Laminate Flooring
Clean regularly using a vacuum cleaner with brush attachment or a soft broom. Depending on the frequency of use and amount of dirt, you should also wipe the floor with a damp cloth regularly. Take care to clean the bevels in a longitudinal direction.
Ensure that surplus fluid is not left standing on the floor in any circumstances. Use the same microfibre cloth to remove any excess fluid.
Light stains can be removed with a well wrung damp flat mop and clean water. For stubborn stains such as coffee, tea, lemonade, fruit or milk - lukewarm water with conventional acidic household cleaner if needed, will be sufficient Paint, lipstick, ink, tar etc. can be easily removed using a conventional absorbent cloth and a universal cleaner suitable for laminate flooring. Ensure that you neutralise the surface afterwards with water.
Remove immediately any moisture or split fluids and avoid spreading large amounts of water on the floor Do not use vapour/steam cleaning equipment or abrasive cleaning equipment.
Vinyl Roll and Vinyl Tile Flooring (LVT)
Specialist floor care and maintenance packs (such as Shutz Floor Care Kit) are available from flooring retailers and contains everything you need to look after your new floor.
Use a standard soft-bristle broom or dustpan and brush to remove surface dust and dirt rather than a vacuum cleaner as this may cause scratches.
Wash your floor with a standard household mop and a domestic floor cleaning emulsion cleaning product specifically designed for this type of flooring. For additional lustre buff with a dry cloth. Avoid general household cleaners as they can leave an oily residue that can lead to potential slip hazards. Do not use washing–up liquid or bleach-based products as these may damage the flooring.
In the case of extremely stubborn stains, such as acids, alkalis, shoe-polish, food, grass etc we recommend using a suitable cloth or a towel soaked with a neutral floor cleaner and water, or a cloth soaked with methylated spirit. For stains which will not wipe up easily, such as chewing gum, wax, oil, tar etc., attend to immediately by carefully remove the excess with a dull kitchen knife, then rub the area lightly with mineral spirits, isopropyl alcohol or lighter fluid. Repeat as necessary until the stain has been removed. After removing any stubborn stains always rinse well with clean water
Protect vinyl flooring from pointed legs or feet and sharp furniture edges as these can damage the floor. To avoid both scratches and indentations, use pads or cups to spread the weight of heavy furniture. Avoid sliding furniture across the floor. Do not allow hot items to land on the floor as they may cause permanent damage.
Carpets
Place door mats in front of the house doors to trap the dirt. This will stop most outside dirt from getting onto your carpet.
Frequent vacuuming is essential, paying close attention to areas which are heavily used such as doorways and corridors. However, it is important to use the right type of vacuum cleaner on the right type of carpets. Loop pile carpets should only be cleaned using a suction vacuum cleaner as beater bars may damage loops. Twist pile carpets can be cleaned using a beater bar vacuum which will more vigorously clean the carpet and remove deep-down dirt. You can also use a suction vacuum cleaner on these carpets. Take extra care when cleaning around a carpet join not to damage the join.
Over time the carpet pile will flatten. The degree of flattening will be dependent on the construction of the carpet (e.g. pile density, fibre type and weight) and the amount of traffic to which it is subjected This flattening will be more apparent in heavily used areas. Where the pile is flattened in a different direction to the natural lie of the carpet, light reflection at different angles may result in the appearance of light and dark patches. These patches are due to the flattening of the pile and are not a fault in the carpet. If possible, rearrange your furniture occasionally to avoid uneven wear Regular vacuuming may also help to reduce and alleviate flattening.
Attend to stains and spills immediately. Warm water should be sufficient to remove most stains on carpets that have had stain guard applied. Do not rub stains, instead blot firmly with a clean white cloth or a white kitchen towel working in from the outside so as to prevent spreading and smudging. Gently loosen where possible and vacuum any debris away. Rinse and repeat until the stain is removed but be careful not to soak the carpet. Allow the carpet to dry naturally and avoid walking on the area until dry. To help the carpet dry quicker you can cover the areas with kitchen towels and weigh down with a heavy object.
If a carpet care product is used to remove the stain, be careful to rinse the carpet to remove the care product and the dirt. Wait until the area is completely dry before walking on it again.
Should you be unable to remove a stain please contact the manufacturer of your carpet for further advice.
If you have taken care to vacuum your carpet regularly and remove spills, you may not need to clean your carpet for a year or more, even if it is a light colour However, when the carpet does start to look soiled, you can either have it professionally cleaned or clean it yourself There are a number of cleaning options available but if you chose to clean the carpet yourself, make sure you use a good quality cleaning agent that does not leave a sticky residue and carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
It you have a Life-Proof carpet, it is a requirement of the stain and wear warranty that the carpet is professionally cleaned once every 2-3 years and that receipts for cleaning are retained. Failure to have the carpet professionally cleaned will invalidate the warranty.
Wet shampoo
Use a neutral carpet shampoo, do not use alkaline shampoo, household detergents or shampoos which smell of ammonia. Remove the furniture from the room, if possible, and vacuum thoroughly before shampooing. Allow to dry overnight before vacuuming again and putting the furniture back in place. It is important not to allow the carpet to get too wet in case the pile and backing become distorted.
Absorbent powder
A range of cleaning powders are available which are either solvent-saturated or detergent-saturated. After vacuuming, sprinkle the powder liberally on the carpet, brush into the carpet pile and vacuum out. It is not necessary to remove all the powder from the pile as it can help minimize future soiling.
Aerosol foam shampoo
Aerosol foam shampoos are suitable for light cleaning of small areas Foam is usually sprayed sparingly on the carpet and worked into the pile with a moistened sponge or brush Vacuum after the carpet is dry.
Spray injection-extraction
Hot water and detergent solution are injected into the carpet under pressure so that any dirt is suspended in the water and extracted by a high suction, wet vacuum system This method is particularly useful for deep cleaning very dirty carpets and is best carried out by a professional cleaner because care needs to be taken not to over-wet the carpet and thus distort the pile and backing.
Professional Factory cleaning
Professional factory cleaning is ideal for rugs and carpet squares It is not as suitable for wall-to-wall carpet as on-site cleaning because of the inconvenience and expense of removing and refitting the carpet.
WALL COVERINGS
Paper Backed Vinyl Wall Covering
Paper backed vinyls are washable - all dirt and all domestic water based stains may be cleaned from the front face by intensive treatment with a sponge or a soft brush and mild detergent or a mild abrasive. Oils, fats and solvent based stains can also be removed if tackled immediately after contamination.
If using soapy water, wipe off with clean water and ensure the surface is dry, especially along the skirting. On vertical surfaces always wash from the bottom upwards. Top down will cause runs on a dry surface which will stain. If in doubt do a trial in an inconspicuous area.
The use of strong bleach or abrasive powders is not recommended.
KITCHEN AND BATHROOM CABINETS AND DOORS
Please note: Coarse and abrasive cloths/sponges, white spirits, turpentine, alcohol, solvent, vinegar based cleaners, bleaches/ammonia and other abrasive household detergents, should not be used to clean doors and handles These may cause irreparable surface damage to the cabinets and doors.
Doors, Panels
and Carcasses
We recommend that both the interior and exteriors of doors and cabinets are cleaned annually.
Doors and drawer frontals should be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth and then wiped dry For stubborn marks, a solution of water and a mild household detergent can be used Wipe the surface with a damp cloth and then dry with a soft cloth
Cabinet carcasses should be cleaned with a solution of warm water and a mild household detergent to maintain their appearance and performance.
The use of other substances such as abrasive cleaners, wax furniture polish or solvents is not recommended as they may damage the surface.
Wipe away water, liquids and oil splashes and runs immediately. Pay particular attention to the top, bottom and inset panels of doors where water, cooking oils, liquids and dirt can accumulate.
Temperature and moisture levels should be maintained to reasonable and consistent levels Dramatic swings in either may adversely affect the lifespan and appearance of the product and excessive temperatures and moisture will cause irreparable damage to doors, cabinets and accessories.
Please be aware that using kettles, toasters and other electrical goods close to doors and cabinets will generate concentrated heat and/or steam below or near the doors and cabinets. This will cause deterioration and reduce their lifespan, and can cause heat delamination issues that are not covered by the warranty
Do not open the fixed door to an integrated dishwasher immediately once the program has ended. Leave the dishwasher to cool down naturally Exposure to the high levels of heat and moisture can cause the door and adjacent cabinet to absorb moisture This can lead to swelling and deterioration of the paint surface and/or failure of the bond between any veneer used and its core.
All High Gloss door products are supplied with a protective film Once removed after fitting, the decor surface will take a further 7 days to cure Do not attempt cleaning during this period Afterwards we strongly recommended that Vuplex or similar (for High Gloss only) is applied with a clean micro -fibre cloth to protect the surface further Vuplex will help minimize the characteristic light swirling marks that develop on high gloss surfaces.
Door Furniture
Door handles and other door furniture should be cleaned at least annually, or monthly if in coastal areas
Brass / Satin Nickel door furniture may have a lacquer coating which should be cleaned with a cloth moistened with soapy water or alternatively wiped over with a soft cloth with beeswax. Eventually the lacquer will naturally degrade. To restore the door furniture, remove the brass fittings and coat with acetone thinner, using a soft brush Completely dry the product using a soft cloth and metal polish At this stage, the product can be polished as and when required using metal polish.
Natural unlacquered brass should be polished periodically with a proprietary brass cleaner, or left to acquire the natural patina of brass.
Nickel, Chrome and Pewter Effect finishes should be washed periodically with a weak detergent solution and rubbed occasionally with paraffin or light oil on a cloth.
Anodised aluminium should be washed periodically with a weak detergent solution and occasionally wiped with wax polish.
Solid pewter door furniture acquires a natural patina. If this is not desired to external handles, we recommend cleaning every 3 to 6 months with warm, very mild (1%) soapy water and cloth dry For Pewter left longer than this period or that has darkened a lot, apply a coat of metal polish and buff vigorously when dry to a shine Repeat the process if required. Do not use solvent cleaners or household polishes or aerosols as these will cause irreversible damage and discolouration to the surface Internal handles will only require an occasional wipe with warm soapy water and buff dry.
Stainless steel door furniture usually requires very little maintenance. Smudges can be removed with a damp cloth. Regular dusting and occasional washing with warm water and a mild detergent, or spray silicone and drying with a soft cloth is all that will be required.
Alternatively, for stainless steel door furniture, mild non-scratching abrasive cleaner may be used with warm water, bristle brushes, sponges or clean cloths; however, outdoor fittings and those that come into contact with chlorinated water can develop what is known as 'flash rust' after a while. This is not generated from within the metal itself and can be removed by vigorous rubbing. Avoid acid or chlorine based cleaning products.
Electro-plated and electrophoretic finished door furniture should be wiped clean with soapy water and a soft cloth and wiped dry.
SINKS AND TAPS
Take care when using a plastic washing up bowl as particles of grit or glass can become embedded in the base of the bowl which will scratch the sink.
Cleaning agents containing bleach should not be left in contact with the sink as this will lead to discolouration or pitting of the sink. If bleach is necessary it should be diluted to the strength specified by the manufacturer and not left for more than 2-3 minutes, then rinsed thoroughly with clean water. Under no circumstances leave in contact with the surface for longer than 30 minutes.
Do not leave wet cleaning aids (such as cloths, pads, containers) on the sink as these trap water causing limescale build up when the water evaporates. Limescale readily absorbs staining agents such as tea, coffee, red wine etc, spoiling the appearance of your sink. For this reason, always rinse and dry your sink after each use to avoid mineral deposits being left behind on the surface when the water evaporates.
Avoid dropping sharp objects onto the sink as they may chip or damage the surface.
Do not ever use undiluted bleach, ammonia, strong cleaning fluids, wire brushes, wire pads, nail varnish remover or oven cleaners on your sink.
Stainless Steel Sinks
Clean regularly with normal detergent and warm water Always make a habit of drying your sink afterwards and buffing with a soft cloth Long-term this will help develop a lovely rich patina and it will also ensure that no build-up of limescale or other mineral deposits can occur.
Care should be taken when cleaning and during everyday use to avoid scratching the sink. When first in use your sink may appear to show up scratches easily. Minor scratching of the sink’s surface is difficult to avoid and is not something to be unduly concerned about. The drainer area in particular is likely to pick up scratches due to hard objects placed upon it. These marks are usually only superficial and can be removed with a proprietary stainless-steel cleaner or a car paint restorer such as T-Cut.
To remove stubborn stains such as dried in food or limescale, the following methods can be used:
• If scouring is required, always use a Scotch-Brite pad and try to scour in the same direction as the natural grain on the sink’s surface.
• Oil, grease and fingerprints may be removed with washing up liquid and hot water, but a solvent may be required (e.g. White Spirit). Care must be taken to use proper safety precautions if using solvents.
• Tea / Tea bags coming into contact with surface can be removed with a hot water solution of sodium bicarbonate (washing soda) and water, applied with a soft cloth or sponge.
• Hard water spots, limescale and white stains may be removed using normal mild cleaning agents, such as a cream cleaner together with a soft cloth or by using a proprietary limescale removing product. Alternatively, soak in a solution of one part vinegar to three parts water. This will loosen the scale, making it possible to scrub it away with an abrasive pad and kitchen sink cleaner.
• To remove heat discolouration, use a proprietary Stainless Steel polish and a nylon scouring pad (e.g. Scotch-Brite) Be aware that slight abrasion of the surface may occur from the scouring action so try to scour in the same direction as the natural grain on the sink’s surface.
Do not use silver dip cleaners as they contain strong acids which cause discolouration and pitting.
Never use a wire wool pad to clean your sink as it will create tiny scratches and it will also shed small pieces of mild steel that later rust and give the appearance that your sink is rusting (this is not the case, but it can be very difficult to remove the small steel particles that have adhered to the surface).
The material used in the sink is a high quality non-ferrous steel which is metallurgically incapable of rusting or corroding in normal household conditions. Any rust that may form on the surface will most likely be small particles of ordinary steel deposited from a secondary source, such as an iron scourer, which have become attached to the surface then subsequently rusted. Rust can be removed using normal mild cleaning agents, such as a cream cleaner together with a soft cloth Ensure that it is worked in a circular motion to minimise the potential of scratching the surface.
In extreme cases a proprietary Stainless-Steel restoring solution should be used. If a soft cloth does not remove the rusted particles, a Scotch-Brite pad can be used. This pad will tend to scratch the surface of the sink and therefore should be used sparingly. After cleaning, dry thoroughly. The process may need to be repeated for several days after the problem has disappeared to ensure all particles have been removed and the rust does not return.
Ceramic Sinks
Most deposits can be removed with washing up liquid and hot water followed by a clean water rinse It is also good practice to then dry the sink with a soft cloth as otherwise limescale can build up on the surface. To remove stubborn stains such as dried in food or limescale, the following methods can be used:
• To remove any limescale that has built up on your sink, use a proprietary limescale removing product.
Alternatively, soak in a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water This will loosen the scale, making it possible to scrub it away with an abrasive pad and kitchen sink cleaner.
• Oil, grease and fingerprints can generally be removed with washing up liquid and hot water, but a solvent may be required (e.g. White spirit or Methylated spirits). Care must be taken to follow the safety precautions if using solvents.
• Tea or vegetable juices stains are likely to be clinging to mineral deposits, such as limescale, lying on the surface of the sink To remove these stains, follow the instructions above for removing limescale.
Do not drop sharp objects or heavy based pans or other kitchen utensils onto your sink, especially vulnerable areas such as the rim edge, as this could result in chips or cracks.
Do not place hot pans on the surface of the sink Your sink can withstand very high temperatures of up to 250°C. Hot pans straight from the hob or oven often exceed this temperature and could mark or cause crazing to the glaze.
Granite Composite Sinks
The composite sink should be cleaned regularly, preferably after every use When finished using the sink, wash thoroughly with the hot soapy water, removing any food or dirt, rinse fully and wipe dry with a cloth afterwards
Most deposits can be removed with hot soapy water. However, to remove stubborn stains such as dried in food or limescale, the following methods can be used:
• Wash with a soft cloth and apply a mixture of one-part white vinegar to three parts water, applying gentle pressure on the stains. If the stain persists, use an old toothbrush on the bad spots but always rinse the solution away as soon as possible.
• Apply a cream cleaning product on to a Scotch-Brite pad and polish the sink surface area using the pad in a circular motion to remove the stains.
• To remove limescale that has built up on your sink, use a proprietary limescale removing product.
• For more stubborn stains use a specialist composite sink cleaner as recommended by the manufacturer First use the vinegar and hot water mixture to try loosening the stain, then rinse and apply a small amount of the specialist cleaner fluid to the stain Scrub immediately with the nylon brush and rinse as soon as you are finished Never use more than 5% bleach and always check the ingredients carefully.
• If a stain becomes deeply ingrained fill the bowl firstly with 40 parts water followed by 1 part bleach or biological washing powder and allow to soak overnight. Drain, then rinse thoroughly with water. Note - this should not be used as a routine cleaning method!
When cleaning the sink, always pay special attention to where the worktop meets the sink, cleaning under any overhangs and where dirt may collect over time Clean the undermount using the same process, not forgetting to dry there too.
Avoid dragging any metal pots, pans or cutlery across the surface of your sink as this may initially leave marks.
Marks left on the surface of the sink by metal items are metal deposits and can usually be removed by scrubbing with an abrasive pad and kitchen sink cleaner.
Taps
All taps should be cleaned only with mild liquid detergent or soap and water, then dried with a soft cloth Use of unsuitable cleaning agents may cause the finish to become discoloured or damaged.
WORKTOPS
Always use chopping boards for preparing food. Crockery items, kitchen utensils and other objects sliding across your worktop will produce fine scratches in the worktop. Glossy and smoother textures and darker coloured surfaces require extra care and attention as they will tend to show scuffs and scratches more readily than more heavily textured finishes.
Avoid placing objects taken from the oven or hob directly onto the laminate surface as this may lead to blistering. To prevent damage from hot objects, use heat resistant mats, trivets or hot rods on the surface of the worktop. Do not place electric kettles and deep fat fryers over work surface joints; certain models can generate excessive heat which may degrade your joint allowing moisture to penetrate.
Wipe spilt liquids away from joints and cut-outs immediately. Moisture will not harm the laminate surface itself, but it is advisable to wipe away any spillage as soon as possible. The critical areas are around joints and cut-outs.
When using a heat producing appliance underneath the worktop, in order to prevent excess moisture causing potential damage to the work surface and adjacent units, make sure that any appliance door seals are intact to prevent steam escaping in use. It is also advisable to avoid opening the dishwasher door until it has cooled down to prevents steam escaping and condensing on the adjacent units and the work surface.
Gloss Worktops
Worktops may be cleaned with a damp cloth, warm water and detergent or a non-abrasive cleaner. Once clean, buff over the surface with a clean, dry soft cloth to maintain the glossy appearance. More stubborn stains such as solvent based paints, permanent dyes and varnishes may be removed using white spirit. Never use scouring powders or abrasive pads on any work surface as they can damage the surface.
Solid Wood Worktops
In the first few days of use, care must be taken to prevent the worktops becoming stained before they have built up sufficient oil protection In particular, water must not be allowed to lie on the surface but wiped/dried off immediately. A coat of oil can be applied in the first two months to help protect the surface.
Take care when cleaning solid wood worktops. To remove light stains and dirt use a dry or damp cloth or towel and a mild detergent. Avoid solvent based products and do not use bleaches as these may alter the colour of your worktop.
After a period of time, it may be necessary to restore the sheen of the tops with a coat of oil. This can be done either when you feel they start to look a little dull, or as a precaution every 3-6 months. This will ensure your worktop is kept in prime condition.
Laminate Worktops
Worktops may be cleaned with a dry cloth or a damp cloth, warm water and a mild detergent. More stubborn stains such as solvent based paints, permanent dyes and varnishes may be removed using white spirit. Avoid using solvent based products, scouring powders or abrasive pads on any work surface as they can damage the surface.
To reduce the likelihood of scratches, use soft cloths when cleaning, cutting boards when preparing food and do not place hot pans directly onto the surface. A maintenance kit is available from Howdens to eliminate light scratches. Deep scratches can also be repaired Please consult a kitchen fitter for advice.
Boiling water and cooking splashes should do no harm to the surface but remove any excess water from the worktop as soon as possible, particularly around joints.
BATHROOM FIXTURES AND FITTINGS
Wall Mounted Accessories, Shelves and Mirrors
Clean the product(s) regularly with a soft damp cloth Do not use abrasive or chemical cleaners, as these will damage the product Do not place hot objects onto the surface of the glass.
Toilet Seats
Clean the product with a soft cloth and a mild soap solution. Take care when cleaning the toilet pan with chemical cleaners to avoid contact with the seat and hinges. Immediately rinse off any splashes to avoid damage or discolouration of the surface of the toilet seat, or corrosion of the metal and plated parts. Do not use abrasive or chemical cleaners as they may damage the Toilet Seat or Hinges.
Do not strike the product with hard or sharp objects or stand on the lid or the seat.
If the seat is a self-closing seat, to ensure best performance allow the seat to close under its own weight.
PORCELAIN AND CERAMIC FLOOR AND WALL TILES
Daily or weekly clean floors and walls with a suitable cleaning substance such as a Multiclean Tile Cleaner, Porcelain Floor Tile Cleaner or Floorshine. Avoid using steam cleaners and strong alkali or acid based cleaning detergents on ceramic and porcelain surfaces, as they can compromise the protection offered by grouts that gives resistance to mould and mildew.
Many ordinary detergents can dry on the surface after cleaning and gradually build up a slight residue. When this residue is made wet it can sometimes be very slippery. Cleaning surfaces routinely with a PH neutral cleaner should ensure that surfaces remain clean and free of any residue.
Neglected or grubby looking surfaces can be restored by intensively cleaning with a specialist dirt and grime remover. Heavier traffic levels and commercial floor areas subjected to hard footwear may also require periodic intensive cleaning.
Specialist Tile Cleaners
Multiclean Tile cleaners are formulated to remove fats, grease, soil, proteins, bacteria, limescale and prevent the formation of new limescale Suitable for use on glazed ceramics, glazed or un-glazed porcelain, polished porcelain, sanitary ware, baths, showers, toilets, chrome, glass, laminate and stainless steel.
Cleaning surfaces routinely with a Multiclean tile cleaner will gradually build a barrier to help prevent limescale from taking hold It will also reduce the tendency for glass and mirrors surfaces to mist up.
If mould and mildew is an issue, use a specialist mould killing cleaner to kill and remove any mould spores.
Directions for use:
Porcelain Floor Tile Cleaner and Floorshine
Porcelain Floor Tile Cleaners are gentle cleaners formulated to clean natural stone, porcelain and ceramic tiles without damaging the grout or tile, leaving the floor with a fresh clean fragrance Suitable for use on polished and unpolished surfaces and can also be used in scrubber drier machines if necessary.
Floorshines are highly effective aftercare cleaners for tiled surfaces that clean and protect in one application and can also renovate dull looking floors Regular use will gradually build a slight sheen on textured surfaces without compromising anti-slip making aftercare much easier.
Step 1.
a small amount of cleaner onto the surface Step 2. Wipe over the surface using a damp cloth.
Directions for use:
Spray a small amount of cleaner onto the surface
Step 2. Wipe over the surface using a damp cloth or mop
Dirt and Grime Remover
Step 3. Leave unpolished surfaces to dry naturally. No need to rinse.
Step 4.
On highly polished surfaces wipe dry using a soft cloth and buff the polished surface to finish
Step 5.
Keep off surfaces until they are completely dry.
Specialist intensive dirt and grime removers are designed to strip and clean vitrified glazed ceramics, porcelain, travertine, natural stone, sandstone, slate, marble, granite, terracotta, quarry, brick, concrete, external paving, terrazzo and other mineral floors and walls.
Ensure that any sensitive surfaces not to be cleaned are properly covered and protected before beginning. Ensure that gloves, eye protection and suitable waterproof clothing are worn at all times. Spillages of undiluted cleaner should be wiped up and rinsed several times immediately.
If applying to walls, steps or risers start on the top and work down Try to work in manageable areas at a time and make sure to rinse well with plenty of water after each application. Rinsing should be repeated at least twice after cleaning. In areas where the staining is deep repeat the process until all of the stains have gone.
Directions for use:
Dilute 1 : 1 with cool water. Mask and protect areas not to be cleaned.
Step 2.
Step 3.
Apply to the surface using a mop or a soft cloth soaked in the diluted solution making sure to work in manageable areas at a time
Step 4.
Add a little water and gently scrub the surface with a white pad to release the loosened matter from the surface.
Step 5.
Sponge to extract the released residues. Rinse with water and repeat 2 further times with clean water. Change rinsing water frequently.
Gently buff dry with a soft cloth. Keep off surfaces until they are completely dry and sealed.
Note: This information has been provided by the tiling manufacturer and is offered without guarantee The material should be used so as to take account of the local conditions and the surfaces to be treated In case of doubt, the product should be tried out in an inconspicuous area
WOODEN FURNITURE
Dust with a clean, lint free cloth. Frequent dusting will remove any abrasive build up which may cause damage to the furniture. Finger marks may be removed with a very slightly damp cloth.
Do not use any abrasive cleaner or harsh detergent as this may damage the surface of the furniture. Avoid spray polishes as these contain silicones with may build up and spoil the finish of the furniture.
Step 1.
Step 1.
Do not allow any liquid to contact the furniture for an extended period of time as this may damage the furniture (particularly veneers) and ensure that you wipe up spills immediately. In the event of a spillage, blot up the excess immediately. Do not try to remove the stain with excessive water or detergent.
Protect all wooden surfaces from heat and liquids by using a mat or coaster. Avoid placing rubber or plastic materials on the wood for prolonged periods as the chemicals within these materials may react with the finish causing damage.
Avoid placing the furniture directly next to sources of heat such as radiators or fires as this may cause warping, cracking or splitting.
When positioning any furniture against a wall, remember to leave at least a 1” (2.5 cm) gap behind so air can circulate.
Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight as this may cause fading or bleaching. It is sensible to protect surfaces from direct sunlight, particularly if mats or coasters are used, as the positioning of these will protect some areas from fading but leave unprotected areas exposed resulting in different degrees of fading across the surface. Where reasonable, consider keeping curtains drawn when any room is not in use as wooden products can change colour with exposure to sunlight.
Regularly move any ornaments to avoid patches of colour where they have been placed.
Leave your dining table fully extended whenever possible or expose the leaves to similar light levels to avoid colour differences between them and the rest of the tabletop
Do not drag or push furniture when moving it. It can damage the fixings and affect the stability of the furniture. Periodically check the stability and fixings of your furniture and re-tighten as necessary With all furniture it may be necessary to tighten the bolts and other fixings occasionally.
Do not overload drawers and shelves or place pressure on potentially weaker points of furniture For example, a chair must remain on all four legs when in use and it is not advisable to place heavy items on a drop down leaf of a table.
If damage such as scratches, burns or staining do occur, seek professional assistance.
BLINDS
Venetian Blinds
To prolong the life of your blinds, please ensure that you follow the instructions below when operating the blinds:
Operation Instructions
• Tilt blind horizontal before raising /lowering to extend the life of the blind.
• To tilt blind: Pull on required tilt cord tassel to tilt slats to the open/closed position.
• To lower blind: Move lift cord towards middle of the blind pulling down gently until cord lock releases.
• To raise blind: Pull lift cord downward until blind reaches desired height.
• To lock cords: Pull lift cord towards the outside of the blind and release. Cord will lock automatically.
Regular cleaning is recommended. When cleaning the blinds, ensure that they are cleaned with care to avoid any damage.
Inspect the blinds for marks and stains. If there are none apparent, a simple regular clean is sufficient. Fully close the blinds so the slats are lying flat and use a feather duster or a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust particles Rotate the slats using the cord and dust the other side. Once the dust has been removed, use a damp cloth to wipe down the blinds, then rotate slats and repeat on other side
If the blinds are very dirty, spray a small amount of oil soap on them and wipe down with a cloth. This will remove any lingering dirt and leave them with a shiny finish.
If marks or stains are apparent, rub the stained area with a dry paper towel. If the mark is persistent, use a mild detergent or wood cleaner but ensure that the slat is kept as dry as possible and thoroughly dried with a towel. If too much water is use or the slats are not thoroughly dried the water may soak into the wood causing distort and/or staining.
At intervals, a deeper clean is recommended to remove any remaining dust that has not been removed as part of the regular cleaning and ensure that the blinds remain in the best possible condition. Ensure that the blind is pulled down and the slats are open, then using a slightly damp cloth, cotton glove or old sock, wipe each slat individually.
Roman Blinds
The simplest way to keep your roman blind clean and dust free is by using a vacuum cleaner with a specialist upholstery attachment. Open your blind fully and, using the upholstery attachment, carefully brush the fabric in a downwards motion until you have vacuumed the whole of the blind surface. Pay special attention to the bottom and side edges of the blind - these attract the most dust as they are in regular contact with your window cill and frame.
If your Roman blind is stained, first try to remove the stain using a clean, damp cloth. Gently rub the affected area with the cloth until the stain begins to lift For more stubborn stains, you may need to apply a specialist fabric stain remover. Always check that the product you are using is appropriate for your Roman blind fabric and make sure you follow the manufacturer instructions for removing the stain Using a stain remover may result in a clean spot on your blind which is significantly lighter than the rest of your blind fabric.
Many of our Roman blinds are made using fabrics that are dry cleanable Look out for the dry clean symbol on our roman blinds and check with your local dry cleaning company before taking your blinds down.
FURNISHINGS
Furnishings should be regularly cleaned with your vacuum’s upholstery or drape attachment to keep it looking its best. Accumulated dust will accelerate the wear of fabrics. Avoid brushing as this can damage the pile of the fabric and affect its feel and durability
When cleaning suites, ensure you clean the entire piece periodically to preserve appearance and prevent fading and wear For fabrics, faux leathers or faux suedes we recommend using mild soap and warm water to sponge over the whole piece. The cloth or sponge should only be damp, and you should never soak the fabric. Immediately afterwards, the suite should be dried as much as possible.
We recommend that fixed cover fabric suites should be professionally cleaned at least once a year. We do not recommend the dry cleaning or washing of covers as this could result in a loss of fire retardant properties and cause fabric durability issues.
Wooden furniture feet may be wiped clean with a lightly damp cloth or polished periodically with natural wax. Do not clean with detergent.
Spillages should be dealt with immediately. In the first instance blot liquid spills with a clean, dry, white cloth, working towards the centre of the spill. Do not rub or use chemical cleaners other than those recommended by the manufacturer, as this may damage the furnishings.
For stains that are difficult to remove or larger, more significant stains, professional cleaning may be required. If you have purchased Guardsman, contact them straight away for advice on what to do Professional cleaning may be required to remove the stain. For Guardsman policy holders this will be arranged for you.
To ensure even wear of sofas and chairs, try to use every seat regularly Arm caps and antimacassar are an effective way of protecting high wear areas of your sofa and chairs.
Plump all cushions regularly. Over time some fillings, including fibre, will lose up to 20% of their original volume through normal wear and tear. Daily plumping will help make them last longer. Cushions that are not maintained correctly will become difficult to restore to their original condition. If your cushions are reversible then turn them regularly.
Fabric will fade over time. To prevent this, whenever possible, draw your curtains or close your blinds, especially if items are in direct sunlight.
Avoid extreme heat. Upholstery products should not be placed closer than 30cm to radiators or any other source of heat Heat from items such as cups, hot water bottles and laptops can mark upholstery.
Avoid contact with denim jeans, non-colour-fast dark clothing and newspapers as their colour can transfer on to upholstery and cause permanent discolouration.
Avoid contact with chemicals in products such as hair preparations, insect repellents or cosmetics and with pollution such as cigarette smoke or cooking fumes as these can cause fading and discolouration and permanently damage the surface of the upholstery.
Recliners should be given enough room for the mechanism to fully open and close. Footwear should ideally be removed before the kickboard of a recliner is used.
Handle suites and furnishings with care when moving – dragging can damage upholstery and bend the frames of suites, as well as damage the flooring.
BEDS AND MATTRESSES
If the home is intended for hire or rental, Government Legislation requires all mattresses to comply with BS7177 (CRIB 5) for fire safety. Prestige will have made this option available at the time of sale and any future replacements should also meet this requirement.
We recommend the use of a mattress protector to help prolong the life of your mattress. This will minimise wear and tear, guard against marks and stains, and help maintain the appearance of a new mattress.
Turning and/or rotating your mattress ensures even distribution of body weight and helps prolong the life of the mattress. The mattress must be turned every week for the first three months, and every month thereafter. For non-turn mattresses, this should be a head to foot turn only.
Do not bend, roll or fold your mattress as this may damage the spring unit and affect the durability and strength of the springs.
Do not overload the divan base drawers, place exceptionally heavy or bulky objects on the mattress or stand or jump on the bed, as this may cause permanent damage.
Do not stand, kneel or sit on the divan bases as this may cause damage which can result in a dip in the base and mattress.
The mattress is designed to support weight spread evenly across the surface. Avoid sitting on the mattress for prolonged periods of time as this may distort the springs and affect the settlement of the fillings.
Replacing the bedding and sheets on a regular basis will allow air circulation through the mattress and will assist in keeping the fillings fresh and odour free.
Any stains should be treated immediately with a damp cloth. Do not use detergents or chemical cleaners as these may damage the fabric.
Cabin and bunk beds are designed for a mattress not exceeding 8” in height. For safety reasons, when replacing the mattress, ensure that the new mattress does not exceed 8” in height.
IMPORTANT WARNINGS
Motion furniture such as recliners, sofa-beds, etc. have many moving parts. Caution must be used when operating the furniture. Only the user of the furniture should operate the mechanism, ensuring that they keep their hands and feet clear of mechanism at all times. Children should not be allowed to play on or operate motion furniture. Always leave recliners in an upright and closed position when not in use.
APPLIANCE MAINTENANCE
Please refer to the appliance manufacturers instructions for any maintenance requirements.
HOMES SITED IN COASTAL LOCATIONS
Please be aware that salt spray and precipitation is corrosive to most man-made materials If your home is in a Coastal area, additional care and maintenance is required to prevent salt damage and corrosion.
Stainless steel fixings are recommended for better durability in coastal locations, although they still will require regular wiping down to protect them from the elements. Silicone spray is also a useful option to use to protect your fixings - apply with a soft cloth after wiping down.
We recommend that a thorough external inspection of your home is undertaken every 6 months. This should include an inspection of the exterior cladding, roof and external fixtures and fixings including mechanism and locks. At each inspection, oil the locks and handles on all your doors and windows, and wash down the exterior of your home to remove salt and algae.
Ensure the chassis is regularly inspected for salt corrosion by a suitably qualified engineer and that any corrosion developing is attended to as necessary.
Decorative Finish
To retain the highest corrosion resistance, it is necessary to keep the surfaces clean and free from dirty deposits which may attack the finish. This can be done by wiping with a warm clean cloth using either a very mild detergent or soap only, then rinsing with warm clean water and drying with a soft cloth. Abrasive,
chemical or brass cleaners, wire brushes, scrubbers and wire wool etc should not be used under any circumstances. Avoid contact with sharp objects which may cut into the finish.
Moving Parts
Products with moving parts, such as handle rotation, sliders on runners and locking gear should be lubricated with a light machine oil or a silicone spray lubricant at least twice a year. Where parts strike together (such as shoot bolt locking points into retaining keeps on window locks for example) the parts should be greased at least twice a year with an acid free lubricant such as Petroleum Jelly.
Keep clean and free from dirty deposits which may cause obstruction or attack the substrate. If moving parts have come into contact with contaminants, where possible blow the area clean with compressed air and re lubricate If further cleaning is required, lightly spray with silicone spray lubricant to flush out contaminated area and wipe clean with a soft cloth and re lubricate.
Fixed Parts
To ensure correct operation it is important that all products remain firmly fixed at all times. To this end they must be regularly inspected and where necessary fixings should be repaired by a suitably qualified person.
PRESTIGE WARRANTIES
The following warranty statements are made for general guidance purposes only.
The sole extent of the warranties given in respect of our supply of park homes is set out in our standard terms and conditions of supply, which were incorporated into the contract between Prestige and the original purchase of the park home A further copy of such standard terms and conditions of supply is available on request. In the event of any conflict between such terms and conditions of supply and the following general guidance statements, the provisions of such terms and conditions of supply shall prevail.
LIMITED WARRANTIES
Our homes are manufactured with carefully selected materials, tried and tested to ensure excellent quality and longevity.
All homes supplied by Prestige, company registration number 1110225, to the UK Mainland are provided with a comprehensive One Year Warranty on the majority of parts and materials as standard and a Limited Ten Year Structural Warranty.
The warranties commence from the factory despatch date, subject to:
• Full payment for the home having been received by Prestige;
• The goods having been sited by an authorized siting agent;
• Internal/external finishing having be carried out by competent and experienced contractors;
• Commissioning of plumbing, electrical and oil systems having be carried out and certified by registered contractors.
The warranties are subject to fair wear and tear, to any equipment having been operated as per the manufacturers operating instructions and to the product(s) having been serviced and maintained to our recommendations by competent engineers using the correct materials
At the time of despatch, documentation is supplied with the home outlining the required commissioning process. For the warranties provided with the home to be valid, these commissioning documents must be followed.
In the event of a warranty claim being necessary, evidence of the servicing and maintenance of your home may be required. Where the warranty claim relates to electric or plumbing elements, a copy of the registered contractor’s certificate of compliance will be required.
Issues that are reported to Prestige for rectification and subsequently found to be due to transport, siting, commissioning, or internal/external finishing not undertaken by Prestige will not be covered under the warranties provided and as such any remedial works will be chargeable.
EXTENT OF THE WARRANTIES
The warranties extend to the domestic use by the current homeowner. Variations to the warranty may apply to homes that are for rental, business, commercial, or other non-residential uses.
The warranties are subject to the home remaining in its original siting location as per the signed specification.
The warranties cover the exterior, interior and any furnishings and equipment that were provided with the home as part of the sale of the home.
The warranties guarantee that the home will be free from defects in workmanship and materials, under normal and proper use, for the period specified in the attached summary of the warranties cover and provided that the home and its equipment have been correctly maintained as per the various manufacturer’s instructions.
Fabrics and vinyl are guaranteed to remain serviceable in normal exposure conditions provided that they are properly cared for. Some natural fading is to be expected when fabrics or vinyl are placed in direct sunlight. Such fading is not considered a defect and is not covered by the warranty.
Carpet pile will flatten with use, particularly in heavily used areas. Where the pile is flattened in a different direction to the natural lie of the carpet, light reflection at different angles may result in the appearance of light and dark patches. Flattening, and any associated colour variation, is not considered to be a defect and is not covered by the warranty.
Leather is a natural product, and, as such, each hide will reflect its own individuality. Some variations of shade and tone are to be expected as are the nicks, scratches, and wrinkles that only occur in genuine leather; these characteristics are in no way to be considered a defect and are not covered by the warranty.
Wood is a natural product and, as such, each piece will reflect its own uniqueness. Some variations of shade and tone are to be expected and over time all wood surfaces will change colour and mellow. These characteristics are in no way to be considered a defect and are not covered by the warranty.
Excessive exposure to direct sunlight may cause wooden furniture and surfaces to fade or bleach, and excessive exposure to heat (such as placing next to a radiator or fire) may cause warping, splitting or cracking. This is not covered by the warranty.
Timber cladding is guaranteed to remain serviceable in normal exposure conditions including sunlight, precipitation and atmospheric conditions, provided it is properly cared for. As a natural material, timber may alter in colour due to natural weathering processes. This weathering is considered normal and is not covered by the warranty.
Appliances, controls and electronics are warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal and proper use, and come with their own individual limited warranties from the appliance manufacturer.
The warranties do not extend to fuses, bulbs, batteries, heating elements, or to any reprogramming of the equipment as a result of a battery changes, loss of power or accidental resetting of the programmes.
There is no warranty against damage due to natural calamities (such fire, lightning, flood, earthquake), acts of war/terrorism or due to use not sanctioned in our care instructions.
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE
For equipment supplied with the home (such as electrical appliances etc.), please refer to the operating manual or manufacturers handbook for guidance on the required maintenance.
For all other maintenance requirements, please refer to the maintenance section of this Homeowners Guide
WARRANTY EXCLUSIONS
The warranties do not cover any costs, repairs or services for the following:
1. Service calls to make adjustments or alterations to the home after siting has been completed and the initial 2 month reporting period has passed;
2. Normal wear, tear and weathering;
3. Minor flaws in materials such as (but not exclusively) waviness in fabric seams, creases to materials, flecks in glass that are not visible from 1 metre away;
4. Service calls to explain the operation of the equipment supplied with the home to the purchaser / home occupier;
5. Repairs necessitated by use other than normal use or by damage resulting from misuse, abuse, accidents or alterations;
6. Any failure of the structures due to a product not supplied by Prestige being fixed to it;
7. Any corrective work necessitated by alterations or repairs made by anyone other than Prestige unless the works have been previously approved by Prestige and carried out by an authorized engineer;
8. Corrective work necessitated by the failure of the customer to ensure that the required maintenance and cleaning is carried out at the appropriate intervals;
9. Corrosion caused by salt damage due to a coastal siting location;
10. Damage caused by re-siting of the home in a different location;
11. Prop packs of home items that are damaged or broken accidently once the home is handed over to the original purchaser;
12. Homes located outside the UK mainland.
In no event shall Prestige be liable for any damage or inconvenience that occurs due to a breach of these warranties or for any consequential or incidental damages (such as loss of use, inconvenience, loss or damage to personal property) whether indirect or direct, that occur from the product
Under no circumstances shall Prestige’s responsibility exceed the purchase price of the product paid by the purchaser or the price of its replacement.
Prestige retains the right at all times to deny any claim on reasonable grounds if they consider the problem to be caused by negligence, misuse or accidental damage.
Prestige reserves the right to resolve a problem by virtue of a repair or replacement where appropriate Prestige reserves the right to not offer compensation or refunds on products as per our terms and conditions.
DISCLAIMER
CAUTION: Motion furniture such as recliners, sofa-beds, etc. have many moving parts Caution must be used when operating the furniture. Only the user of the furniture should operate the mechanism, ensuring that they keep their hands and feet clear of mechanism at all times Children should not be allowed to play on or operate motion furniture. Always leave recliners in an upright and closed position when not in use.
In no event shall Prestige be responsible for consequential or incidental damages or injury resulting from failure to follow the above instructions or those outlined in the manufacturers instruction manual.
WARRANTY OBLIGATIONS
If you discover a defect in a product covered by our warranties we will repair it using the materials and methods that we deem most suitable or, if repair is not possible, we will replace the component or item. Replacement is only offered when the faulty component or product is available for return to us or for inspection by an authorized engineer.
An authorized surveyor or engineer may visit the home for the purpose of assessing the reported damage prior to a repair being authorized.
Once the repair has been authorized, a service engineer may visit the customer or user for the purpose of repairing or replacing the defective part.
We reserve the right to undertake any repairs or remedial work to the homes we supply within a reasonable time frame with allowances for the bespoke nature of our homes All repairs will be carried out during our normal working hours; however we also support on weekend solutions in some circumstances
Replacement materials and products, where required, will be selected to match the original as closely as possible. However, due to the use of dyes, natural materials, the aging process and changes in manufacturing processes, some variation in colour and finish may be apparent.
As part of our ongoing development we reserve the right to change or alter specifications without prior notice. In the event of a replacement item being required, should the product have been discontinued, Prestige will replace the item with an equivalent of similar style and value. In the event that Prestige is unable to offer a suitable alternative, a refund to the original value of the item may be offered.
Labour costs for any repairs/replacements undertaken within the first 12 months of ownership will be covered by Prestige. In subsequent years, any labour costs will be the responsibility of the claimant.
All warranty repairs must be carried out by an engineer approved by Prestige. If any repairs are carried out by engineers that are not authorized, the warranties may be invalidated and the costs will not be covered by Prestige, unless this was agreed beforehand.
Any item repaired or replaced under these warranties will be covered by the warranties for the remainder of the original warranty period only.
How to Make a Claim
The warranties are provided to the original purchaser of the home, which may be the owner of the park in which your home is sited. If you purchased your home from a Park, your contract and warranties are with your Park. Please contact your Park Manager in the first instance to make a warranty claim.
If you purchased your home directly from Prestige, please refer to the attached summary of the warranties provided for detail of what is cover and the duration of the cover
For warranties that are registered with the manufacturer (such as appliance warranties), please refer to your manufacturer handbook / operating manual for details of the claims process, and relevant contact details. For all other warranties please contact Prestige.
For warranties that are provided by Prestige, the purchaser is required to inform Prestige of any warranty issues that arise immediately by telephoning 01933 354000, by emailing customerservices@phplh.com or by writing to the address on page 51
SUMMARY OF WARRANTIES COVER
The following items are covered by the warranties on your home for the periods specified below:
Important Notes
The 10 year limited structural warranty is subject to registration within the time period specified.
White Goods - Some white goods may have an extended warranty available. The relevant registration forms are provided to the Park (in the new home welcome pack) and should be sent to the appliance manufacturer when the Park receives the home. We recommend that the Homeowner confirms with the park that the appliances have already been registered, prior to taking ownership of the home.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. I would like to hang photos on my walls. How do I secure these?
Your walls are cavity walls and it is safe to hang items on the walls provided you use the correct fixings. Small items may be secured with a picture hook, however we recommend that you use a cavity wall fixing or plasterboard fixing, dependent on wall finish, to ensure the item remains securely in place. For larger items, please ensure that you locate a wall stud to fix the item to. When positioning items on the wall, please ensure that you are aware of the location of the electric cables which run down the walls to any power point / outlet or lighting. If you have any doubts as to the location of the electrics, please seek advice from an electrician.
2. My radiators are not getting very warm.
They probably have some air in them, try bleeding the radiators with a radiator valve key
3. I have bled my radiators and now my boiler pressure has dropped.
Open the black tap on the silver filling loop and boost the pressure to 1.4 bar on the LCD display If the commissioning plumber has removed the filling loop, contact your local plumber for advice.
4. My boiler has stopped working and will not re-ignite or my boiler is leaking.
Call the Boiler Manufacturer for advice and/or to arrange an engineer to visit. The help line numbers are on Page 51 of this booklet.
5. I have a leak which appears to be coming from underneath my home.
If the leak is a gas leak – immediately turn of the gas at the mains, open all windows and contact your gas supplier. For all other leaks, try to find the source of the leak and call our Customer Care Helpline on 01933 354000.
6. One of my appliances is faulty.
Call the Appliance Manufacturer for advice and/or to arrange an engineer to visit. The help line numbers on Page 51 of this booklet.
7. The rainwater in my gutter is overflowing.
You may find that there are leaves, moss or other obstructions in your guttering. Clearing out the obstructions should rectify the problem. If the problem reoccurs, fit a gutter leaf guard.
IN CASE YOU NEED ANY HELP
We hope you will not encounter any problems with your new home, but in the unlikely event that you do have a problem, please find as follows some useful contact numbers.
Please note that when your home leaves our factory, the appliances that have been fitted are covered by the appliance manufacturer’s warranty e.g. Vaillant, and the help line numbers for these manufacturers have been included below.
Who
AEG Appliances 0800 389 3715 / 03445 610648
Ariston Boilers 0333 240 8777
Baxi Boilers 0344 879 7948
BeModern Fires 0191 489 8006
BOSCH Appliances 0344 892 8979
CDA Appliances 01949 862012
Culina Appliances 0844 8001128
Fired Up Fires 0330 0882 067
Flamerite Fires 01543 251122
Gas safe Gas Certification 0800 915 0485
Gorenje Appliances 020 8247 3980
Lamona / Howdens Appliances 01933 278250
Morso Log Burner 01788 554410
Neff Appliances 0344 892 8989
NICEIC Electrical Certification 0333 015 6625
OFTEC Oil 01473 626298
Potterton Boilers 0345 070 1057
Platinum Seal 10 year limited structural warranty 01604 946 791
Vaillant Boilers 0330 1003143
Worcester Oil Fired Boilers 0330 123 9559
To contact our Customer Care Department please call, email or write to:
Prestige Homeseeker Park & Leisure Homes, 8 Shipton Way, Express Business Park, Rushden, Northamptonshire, NN10 6GL Tel: 01933 354000
Email: customerservices@phplh.com
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday – 9:00am – 5:00pm Friday – 9:00am – 4:00pm
t:
e: sales@phplh.com www.prestigehomeseeker.com
CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP DOCUMENT
In the event of a change of owner, please complete the form below and return to:
Customer Care, Prestige, 8 Shipton Way, Express Business Park, Rushden, Northants, NN10 6GL
Address (If different to
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CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY
Here at Prestige, we want all our customer to be happy with their new home and the service they receive from our team. As part of our efforts to continually improve the service we offer to our customers we would ask you to take a few moments to complete the short satisfaction form below and to return the completed survey to:
Customer Care, Prestige, 8 Shipton Way, Express Business Park, Rushden, Northants, NN10 6GL
Serial No
Aftersales
Would You Use Prestige Again?
Yes
No
Any further comments on the service received or suggestions if you were to buy a home again:
Please continue overleaf if required.
† The serial number may be found on the front of the homeowner’s pack or on the exterior of the home adjacent to the front door.
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10 YEAR STRUCTURAL WARRANTY REGISTRATION FORM
The Park/Landowner should complete this section upon receipt of the new home at the Park. Please return the completed form to:
Customer Care, Prestige, 8 Shipton Way, Express Business Park, Rushden, Northants, NN10 6GL * Applicable to homes located on the UK Mainland only.
† The serial number may be found on the front of the homeowner’s pack or on the exterior of the home adjacent
Please note: Prestige are not obliged to carry out any remedial works until this document has been received. The Park/Landowner should also complete any additional appliance warranties enclosed with this pack and return these to the appliance manufacturer.
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t: 01933 354000
e: sales@phplh.com www.prestigehomeseeker.com
