Operating instructions

2 . 2 R U N N I N G I N
Running in a new home requires attention to detail and awareness of heat and ventilation
control, to allow the expansion and contraction of natural materials to take place.
The following details and guidance are provided for the successful ‘running in’ of your new
home.
N E E D F O R V E N T I L A T I O N & T E M P E R A T U R E C O N T R O L
The presence of water in construction materials means that it is essential to allow the property to
dry out as naturally as possible. Natural materials used in the construction of your new home will
expand and contract due to the changes in temperature and moisture content of the air.
Make every effort to keep an ‘even’ temperature. The recommended room setting is 20
o
C (68
o
F),
which should provide adequate heating. Extremes of cold and heat can lead to movement and
cracking of finishes.
Adequate ventilation is important for allowing the drying process to take place. The primary
ventilation method is the windows which have manually operated trickle vents located at the top.
The bathrooms and kitchen area have a secondary measure in the form of a mechanically
operated fan.
To aid ventilation, it is recommended that windows are opened to allow a through-flow of air to
all rooms as and when the weather allows.
M O V E M E N T & S H R I N K A G E
As the drying out process occurs, the building materials will shrink, which may cause small cracks
to appear. Some cracks may re-occur to a reduced extent. Such minor cracks are inevitable but
are not classified as defects and Thornsett is not obliged to rectify them. Trade emulsion which is
a breathable product, has been used to allow walls and ceilings to initially dry out before
redecoration.
The drying out period should take approximately three to six months. Minor shrinkage cracks
should be left for this period and then filled with a DIY product such as pollyfilla or a flexible
decorator’s caulk.
D A M A G E T O D E C O R A T I O N S
Thornsett cannot be held responsible for damage to additional decorations, which have been
applied too soon.