Welcome to Your Homeowner Maintenance Guide

Why this matters: Moisture is the #1 cause of mold. Proper prevention protects your home, air quality, and construction materials.

OSHA/EPA Safety-Aligned Do's • Fix leaks promptly (plumbing, roofing, window seals).
• Keep bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens ventilated (use fans, open windows).
• Clean small mold spots (<10 sq ft) on hard, non-porous surfaces using:
    • Mild soap + warm water
    • Soft cloth or gentle scrub brush
    • Dry thoroughly afterward
• Wear basic protection during mold cleaning:
    • Nitrile or rubber gloves
    • Eye protection
    • N95 mask
• Maintain caulking around showers, sinks & tubs.

Important Safety Notes ⚠ Do not mix bleach with ammonia or acidic cleaners (creates toxic gas).
⚠ Do not attempt to clean mold on porous materials (drywall, carpet, insulation).
⚠ Do not clean mold patches larger than 10 sq ft — call a professional.

When to Call SGR • Musty odors or recurring mold
• Water-damaged walls, ceiling, or cabinets
• Mold behind paint or bubbling drywall

Routine Cleaning (Safe for Most Surfaces) • Sweep or vacuum dry debris.
• Clean using neutral pH or mild detergent with warm water.
• Rinse with clean water.
• Dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.

Grout Care • For light dirt: use a soft brush + mild cleaner.
• For stubborn areas: use grout-safe cleaners only (neutral pH).
• Reseal grout every 12–18 months.

Caulking Checks • Inspect kitchen & bathroom caulking every 6 months.
• Replace if you see cracking, gaps, or mold underneath.

Safety Notes ⚠ Avoid abrasive pads that scratch tile.
⚠ Avoid acidic cleaners on natural stone.
⚠ Avoid long-term exposure to fumes — always ventilate.

When to Call SGR • Cracked or missing grout
• Loose tiles
• Caulking failures causing leaks

Daily & Weekly Care • Wipe using a damp (not wet) microfiber cloth.
• Use mild dish soap for heavier dirt—avoid harsh chemicals.
• Dry immediately to protect the finish.

Protection Tips • Install soft-close hinges to reduce wear (SGR can install these).
• Avoid letting water drip from sink edges onto cabinets.
• Use shelf liners to protect interior surfaces.

Safety Notes ⚠ Avoid bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners.
⚠ Avoid prolonged contact with steam (coffee makers, rice cookers placed under cabinets).
⚠ Avoid soaking wood, which leads to swelling or warping.

When to Call SGR • Cabinets are warping or water-damaged
• Doors no longer align properly
• You want refinishing or upgrades

Spring • Check roof & gutters
• Inspect exterior paint & siding
• Test smoke/CO detectors

Summer • Inspect caulking around windows
• Power wash exterior (avoid high pressure on siding seams)
• Check irrigation for leaks or overspray

Fall • Clean debris from gutters
• Seal gaps around doors & windows
• Inspect for moisture around bathrooms

Winter • Check for condensation around windows
• Prevent pipe freezing in low temps
• Monitor attic ventilation