TABLE OF CONTENTS     

ASSOCIATION COMMITTEES

ARCHITECTURAL CONTROL FORM

BUILDING ISSUES
Air Conditioners
Attic Insulation
Bathroom and Clothes Dryer Venting
Cable Installation
Dividing Walls within Woodcutter Garages
Drains
Entrance Doors
Fire Safety Issues
Garage Doors
Main Water Valves for Buildings
Outside Spigots
Roofs
Satellite Dishes
Sewer Back-Ups
Siding and Balconies
Weatherizing
Windows

GROUNDS AND LANDSCAPING ISSUES
Fall Clean-Up
Landscape Trimming and Edging
Mulching
Outdoor Toys
Salt Use in Winter
Sidewalks
Summer Watering
Trash and Recycling Service

PARKING AND VEHICLE MATTERS
Assigned Outdoor Parking Spots
Garage Use
Safety Measure
Vehicle Registrations

ASSOCIATION OVERSIGHT OF COMMON AREAS 

The Trees of Wheaton Homeowners Association has five standing committees to provide oversight of common area and building issues—Buildings, Grounds, Landscaping, Pool, and Parking.  These committees meet as needed to inspect the property, to conduct research, and to make recommendations to the Board.  The Board makes all decisions relating to maintenance, grounds, and building issues.  The Trees of Wheaton Property Manager is responsible for the daily oversight of maintenance matters, for supervision of maintenance contractors, and for implementation of Board decisions. 

Key committee responsibilities are as follows:

In a condominium community, there is an interdependence between all the owners and residents, who share in the maintenance of property and in the smooth operation of community functions.  Detailed information follows on various aspects of community living in the Trees, including grounds, building, and maintenance issues that are routine, seasonal, or occasional in nature. 

BUILDING ISSUES 

ROOFS - All buildings in The Trees of Wheaton received new roofs in 1998.  Some additional vents and vented aluminum soffits and eaves were installed at that time to improve airflow and circulation.  The Board is currently considering the issue of ridge vents for some buildings. 

ATTIC INSULATION - An important factor in roof maintenance is attic insulation, which is the responsibility of individual unit owners.  With proper attic insulation (which goes in the floor of the attic), the temperature in the attic should be about the same as the outside temperature.

  Inadequate insulation in the attic allows warm air from the home to escape into the attic in winter.  This warm air causes snow on the roof to melt and refreeze repeatedly, causing a "dam" of ice to build in the gutter, blocking run-off water and causing the dam to grow.  As the ice dam builds, it moves up the roof, forcing its way under the shingles of the roof as it goes.  When ice under the shingles starts to melt, interior damage to the roof and attic can occur.  Meanwhile, as the warm air within the attic cools, condensation can cause water damage to drywall, creating stains on walls and ceilings.  The creation of long icicles hanging from the roof in winter weather is a sign of inadequate attic insulation. 

  In warmer months, inadequate insulation allows the cooler air-conditioned air from the home to escape into the attic.  The escape of both heated winter air and air-conditioned summer air increases energy costs on both gas and electric bills.

  Original attic insulation installed in Trees units at the time of construction in the 1970's is not considered adequate according to present building code recommendations.  Some unit owners have added extra insulation, so that the level of insulation now existing in different units varies.  It is recommended that unit owners have their insulation checked to determine the current level and to determine if additional insulation might be beneficial.  The minimum level for this area of the country is currently R-38, with R-49 recommended.

  In addition to adequate insulation, it is recommended that unit owners install styrofoam "Handy Vents" over the eave vents from the inside to prevent anything from covering the vents and blocking airflow. It is important not to cover soffit venting when installing insulation. 

BATHROOM and CLOTHES DRYER VENTING - Unit owners are responsible for correct venting in their unit.  Bathrooms and clothes dryers should be vented to the outside of the building.  Some units still have inadequate original venting into the attic, which can contribute to ice damming and roof problems.  When upgrading venting, certain  specifications  must be followed to conform to current building codes.  Owners/residents MUST complete an Architectural Control Form (click here for form or obtain from the Property Manager) and submit it for approval by the Board before any work is begun. 

MAIN WATER VALVES - Each building has a main water shut-off valve located by the water meter in one of the four units.  For emergency purposes, each resident should be aware of the location of this main shut-off valve for their building.  If a water heater, toilet, pipe, etc. should start flooding, and it is not possible to turn off the water at the appropriate local valve, it will be necessary to shut the water off to the entire building at the main shut-off valve. 

   A list of units having the main water shut-off valve for the building follows.  If you are a resident in one of these units, please locate the water meter and valve so you can respond quickly to a neighbor's emergency request.  Other residents should note which unit contains the valve for their building. 

Woodcutter buildings:

1303 B            1400 B            1503 B            1601 B

1312 C            1414 A            1509 B            1605 B

1321 B            1422 A            1515 B            1615

1330 A            1438 A            1525 B            1623

1332 B            1441 B            1535 B

1344 A            1453 B            1545 B

1356 C            1465 B            1555 B

1370 B            1477 B            1565 B

1375 B            1489 B            1575 B

1381 B            1497 B            1585 B

1387 B

1393 B

1399 B 

Timber Trail buildings:

1470        1574

1480        1582

1486        1588

1496        1594

1500 C      1602

1504 B      1610

1522        1620

1528        1636

1538        1641

1548        1644

1554        1651

1562        1652 

OUTSIDE SPIGOTS - Every fall, residents must turn off the water shutoff valves to the outside water spigots by November 1st.  This is a preventative measure to ensure that water does not freeze in the pipes during the winter and cause them to burst.  First, shut off the spigot valve inside the building.  Then, drain any water remaining in the pipe from the spigot outside.  Finally, leave the outside spigot open until spring turn on.  Many of the Timber Trail buildings do not have shutoff valves inside the unit.  If residents are unsure whether or not they have a shutoff valve, or don’t know where it is, contact the Property Manager for assistance.  In the spring, spigot valves should be turned on slowly.  

SEWER BACK-UPS - First, call the Property Manager to obtain current information and coordinate a response. It is usually best to call the City of Wheaton Sewer Division at 260-2110 (after-hours 260-2161) to have them check the main sewer before incurring a possibly unnecessary personal expense. If the main line is clear, unit owners will be responsible for repairs to unit lines.  The unit owner's insurance policy may cover such costs. 

DRAINS – Keep drains running clear.  One non-corrosive measure for keeping garbage disposal drains clean is to pour hot water mixed with ½ cup of baking soda down the garbage disposal once a month.  Pouring boiling water down other drains once a month is also beneficial.

ENTRANCE DOORS - Door maintenance is the responsibility of unit owners.  An Architectural Control Form must be obtained from the Property Manager or printed out from this site (click here for form) and completed, submitted, and approved by the Board before any entrance doors can be replaced.

  All entrance doors, both storm doors and panel doors, MUST be white.

  Storm doors must have a white cross buck style panel on the lower half of the door and a window/screen portion for the top half of the door.

  Two styles of main entrance doors have been approved.  One features a 9-light window panel for the upper half of the door; the other features a half-moon window panel at the top of the door.

  At present, no specifications have been approved governing doorknobs or latches, but either brass or a black wrought iron type are recommended, in a style compatible with the overall building design.

  Doors should be well-maintained in appearance and in good operating condition. 

WINDOWS - Window maintenance is the responsibility of unit owners.  An Architectural Control Form must be obtained from the Property Manager or printed out from this site (click here for form) and completed, submitted, and approved by the Board before any work is begun on windows.

   All windows MUST be white, single or double-hung windows with internal grids that give the appearance of 6-8 smaller panes.  Casement windows, bay windows, and all other types of windows are NOT allowed.

   Vinyl, double-pane, thermal windows are recommended. 

   If windows become cloudy due to damage to the thermal seal, are missing grids, have damaged screens, broken panes, or do not function properly due to broken sashes, they should be repaired or replaced.  Windows should not be propped open with blocks or sticks.

   Windows should be covered by curtains, blinds, or shades.  Window coverings should be in good repair.  Sheets, newspapers, torn shades, etc., are not allowed.

   Note that using fans in the windows is not allowed.

   Windows may NOT be covered by plastic or similar insulating treatments. 

GARAGE DOORS - All garage doors were replaced in 1997.  Garage door maintenance is the responsibility of unit owners.  Damaged or dented panels should be replaced.  Repair costs might be covered under the owner's auto insurance or homeowner's policy.

  Keep the garage door closed except when entering and exiting.  Outside air, whether too warm in summer or too cold in winter, can adversely affect the temperature in the unit over the garages.  Also, the aesthetic appearance of the community is more pleasing with all the garage doors closed.  

DIVIDING WALLS WITHIN WOODCUTTER GARAGES - Unit owners who wish to install dividing walls within Woodcutter building garages MUST obtain an Architectural Control Form (click here for form or obtain from the Property Manager), submit it, and have it approved by the Board before beginning any construction work.  There are Association specifications that must be followed. 

SIDING AND BALCONIES - All buildings received new aluminum siding and balconies between 1998 and 2001. Mailboxes were also installed at that time.  New unit lighting fixtures have been installed more recently.  Unit owners and residents may NOT attach anything to the new siding.   

CABLE INSTALLATION - Underground television cables have been installed throughout the Trees.Contact Comcast to initiate a hookup or request a change in service. No exposed cables are permitted when installing cabling to a unit. For the D unit, cables must be run within wire mold and behind corner caps according to approved specifications. No cables may be left lying exposed on the ground, but must be buried in the ground.

SATELLITE DISHES - Satellite dishes are prohibited in the Trees of Wheaton. 

WEATHERIZING - Sealing small gaps, cracks, or openings that may occur around windows, doors, TV cable openings, clothes dryer vents, plumbing pipes, and similar areas can decrease the escape of air from the home.  Weatherizing such areas with caulking, sealants, or weatherstripping can conserve energy and reduce heating and cooling bills.  

AIR CONDITIONERS - Air conditioners run most efficiently and inexpensively when the thermostat is kept at a constant setting.  Unit owners are responsible for the maintenance of their air conditioners. It is necessary to check the air-conditioner’s condensation draining system regularly.  A plugged or malfunctioning drain can cause drywall or insulation damage from leaking water, and can contribute to frozen and bursting pipes in winter.  

FIRE SAFETY ISSUES - All owners and residents should heed the following fire safety measures.

1. Heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires in the U.S.  Have your furnace checked regularly.  The flame should burn blue and steady.  Soot buildup around the burner can indicate a problem, as can corrosion.  Clean and replace air filters regularly.

2. Install smoke detectors and check them regularly.  Change batteries at least once a year.

3. If you smell gas in your home, open the windows, evacuate everyone from the building, and go to a neighbor's house to call both the Fire Dept. and the Nicor Gas.

4. Clean your clothes dryer's lint trap regularly. Lint build-up can cause a dryer's motor to overheat and start a fire by igniting the lint.  Clean lint from under your dryer and from the dryer hose at least twice a year.  For assistance in cleaning the hose, contact the Property Manager, and cleaning can be arranged for a fee.

5. Check appliance connectors.  The flexible connectors from gas piping to stoves, dryers, etc., can deteriorate over time, causing a leak, fire, or explosion.  They should be checked periodically and maintained in good condition.

6. City fire codes prohibit grilling in the garages or on the balconies.  Grill a safe distance from the building.  Store the cooled grill inside the garage or unit when not in use.    

GROUNDS and LANDSCAPING ISSUES   

TRASH AND RECYCLING SERVICE -  Trash collection is provided by Molenhouse on a weekly basis. The cost of weekly trash removal service is included in the monthly association assessment fee.     

   Each unit is provided with a 20 gallon blue recycling container for disposing of recyclable materials listed below. This container must stay with the unit regardless of changes in occupancy. If the bin is damaged or lost, it must be replaced at the resident’s expense with a similar large blue recycling container.

   Other trash should be placed in 30-34 gallon, 2-ply, heavy-duty plastic trash bags and securely sealed. Note that white kitchen garbage bags should NOT be used as they are not sturdy enough and may lead to trash blowing around the property.  Garbage may NOT be put in open boxes or containers.  Garbage cans may NOT be used at the curb, but may be used inside your garage to store garbage bags during the week.

   Each building has a designated spot near its common driveway area where trash may be placed after 5:00 PM on Tuesday evenings for trash pick-up on Wednesday mornings.  The blue recycling container and trash bags MUST be stored INSIDE the garage or unit at all other times!

Recyclable Materials:

Glass – bottles and jars only; clear, brown, and green glass are acceptable; NO window glass, mirrors, or light bulbs; glass should be rinsed with lids discarded

Aluminum and Tin Cans – rinsed well with no food residue; flattened preferred to conserve space; NO foil

Plastic – jugs and bottles marked No. 1 and No. 2 recyclable plastic ONLY; rinsed well with lids discarded; NO automotive or pesticide containers regardless of markings; NO plastic bags; NO other plastics with other numbers; NO styrofoam

Paper – white and light colored paper; chipboard (cereal and shoeboxes); plain, window, and manila envelopes; calculator tape; file folders; magazines, index cards; computer paper; yellow legal paper; junk mail; newspaper; telephone books; cardboard – Paper materials should be placed together in a paper container such as a brown paper grocery bag before being placed in the blue recycling bin so that they will not blow out of the bin.  They should NOT be placed in a plastic bag or tied with string, which can jam the recycling machinery when the paper is processed.  Boxes and cartons should be cut down and/or flattened to fit in the bin.

   Collection will NOT be provided on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. 

Special Collection Items (anything that is not actual garbage):

Contact Molenhouse at 630-790-9900 to authorize the driver to pick up special items, which are anything not included in a trash bag.  Any additional fees charged by Molenhouse will be added to the assessment to be paid by the owner/resident.  Special items include, but are not limited to, the following:

     Carpeting – must be cut and tied in rolls no greater than 4 feet in length and 18 inches in diameter

     Wood – must be 4 feet or less in length

      Bulky furniture – couches, chairs, tables, and similar items can be picked up on the regular trash day, but Molenhouse must be contacted in advance at 630-790-9900 to authorize pick-up by the driver.  (Note that organizations such as AmVets, Salvation Army, Goodwill, and resale shops also accept used furniture items for recycling and resale.)

     Large appliances – State regulations require that refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, etc., be picked up separately.  Contact Molenhouse at 630-790-9900 to authorize a pick-up. Any additional fees charged by Molenhouse will be added to the assessment to be paid by the owner/resident. 

Household Hazardous Waste – products that are flammable, toxic, corrosive, or reactive should NOT be included in household trash and will NOT be picked up by Molenhouse.  Such items include waste paint, pesticides, poisons, car batteries, gasoline, used oil, and other automotive fluids such as antifreeze.  Contact the DuPage County Solid Waste Department at 630-682-7373 for information about Household Hazardous Waste collection days and HHW disposal.  

FALL CLEAN-UP - All garden hoses should be disconnected from the outside faucets and stored inside for the winter.  Other warm-weather items such as grills and lawn chairs must also be stored away for the winter.  Any items remaining outside after November 1^st will be picked up and disposed of.  

SUMMER WATERING - Residents should water any sod or shrubs planted by or near their unit.  Residents are also responsible for watering the lawn area around their units.  The City of Wheaton has an odd/even watering policy in force: odd number addresses can water on odd number days, and even number addresses can water on even number days.  Watering between noon and 6:00 p.m. is prohibited by the City.  The water bill is paid for by the Association.  

LANDSCAPE TRIMMING AND EDGING – The contractor who provides grass-mowing services for the Trees also trims shrubs and edges flowerbeds on a routine basis.  Residents who would like the landscapers to “skip” their flowerbeds, and who prefer to trim their shrubs and edge their flowerbeds themselves, should request small blue flags from the Property Manager to place in their garden areas.  Landscapers will leave areas marked with blue flags alone.  If residents fail to maintain these areas, however, the Association reserves the right to remove the flags.  

OUTDOOR TOYS - Children’s toys should be put away each evening.  Toys and other items such as lawn chairs should be put away when grass cutting is being done.  

MULCHING - If residents wish to add mulch to their own flowerbed areas, they may.  However, only mulch is permitted.  No white rocks, lava rocks, or other materials are allowed.  

SALT USE IN WINTER - During the winter months, the Association provides containers of salt, 100 pounds per year, located in parking courts throughout the property.  Residents may take salt from the containers and use it on their sidewalk and driveway areas to reduce ice formation and increase safety.  Replace the lid on the salt container tightly and securely so that moisture cannot enter the container.  Moisture will solidify the salt and make it useless.  Do not take more salt than is needed.  The Association does pay for the salt, and if it becomes useless or is wasted, the expense is wasteful of common funds.  Be aware that salt use does cause some damage to grass along the sidewalk and driveway areas where it is used.  Experiment to determine the smallest amount of salt required to do an adequate job of reducing ice for safety.  It is not necessary to sprinkle liberal handfuls on every block of the sidewalk! 

SIDEWALKS – The Grounds Committee conducts a twice-yearly sidewalk inspection to note needed repairs and improvements.  The list is prioritized, and repairs are made yearly according to their urgency and available funds.  Residents may report requests for repairs to the Property Manager, who will see that they are included in the list.  In winter months, sidewalks are cleared of snow by the contractor providing snow-removal services for the roads.   

PARKING AND VEHICLE MATTERS  

ASSIGNED OUTDOOR PARKING SPOTS - Every unit is assigned one outdoor parking space.  

Proper car maintenance is needed to avoid the leaking of automotive fluids onto the asphalt of this outdoor space.  If oil or other car fluids do leak on the asphalt, use cat litter or a special product designed to absorb petroleum spills.  Then clean the area with dishwashing liquid or a similar grease-cutting biodegradable soap, water, and a scrub brush.  Ignoring the spots can result in damage to the asphalt that requires more expensive measures to clean and repair.  Costs incurred by the Association to repair damaged asphalt of assigned resident parking spaces will be billed back to the owner.

  Double-parking behind garages is prohibited.

  Residents may NOT park in Visitor parking spaces.  

VEHICLE REGISTRATIONS - Vehicle registrations must be kept up-to-date.  All cars owned by people living in The Trees should be registered with the Property Manager, who will provide parking stickers.  If residents replace a car, the vehicle sticker may be removed from the old car and placed on the new car, and the Property Manager should be contacted with the new vehicle information: make/model, color, year, and license plate number.  If residents obtain an additional car for which they need a sticker, or if a vehicle sticker is lost or damaged and needs replacing, contact the Property Manager to request a new sticker. ( Click here for Vehicle Registration Form. )

SAFETY MEASURE- Do NOT leave your car running inside the garage.  Poisonous carbon monoxide fumes can infiltrate the unit over the garages.  If your car needs to be warmed up to run well in winter, pull it completely out of the garage and close the garage door before allowing it to idle.  

GARAGE USE - Garages are legally considered “limited common areas.”  They are to be used for parking cars.  Since residents are assigned two parking spaces, one inside the garage and one outside space, any residents with two cars who are using their garage for extensive storage need to rent a commercial storage shed or find some other place for their belongings so the garage may be used for parking one of the cars.  People who own more than two vehicles should not plan to live in The Trees.  

Last page update: Tuesday, January 26, 2010 10:47 AM