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Must-Have Maintenance Tools for Your Roof

Cleaning gutters during the summer time.

Maintaining Your Roof: The Must-Have Tools You Need

Maintaining your roof can be an intimidating task, but it’s a responsibility every homeowner should take seriously. Regular roof maintenance can prevent costly repairs and leaks and extend the lifespan of your humble abode. 

But where do you start? The most essential component of roof maintenance is having the right tools. In this article, we’ll guide you through the must-have maintenance tools for you to invest in this year.

1. Safety Gear

First and foremost, safety gear is a non-negotiable tool when performing roof maintenance! This includes a safety harness, sturdy gloves, non-slip footwear, and protection glasses. Accidents on the roof can happen quickly, so it’s imperative that you prioritize security and dress for the job.

2. Ladder

A sturdy ladder is another essential tool for roof maintenance. Choose a ladder with a height that allows you to reach your roof comfortably without overreaching or standing on the top step. When setting up your ladder, ensure it’s on level ground and securely tied to a stable surface. This will allow you to clean out your gutters of debris and muck. But you should get in contact with a professional roofing contractor for anything that involves being up all the way on your roof! 

3. Roof’s Flashing

The flashing is the metal sheet that covers the edges and seams of your roof, and it’s one of the most vulnerable parts. It’s essential to have flash pliers to replace damaged sections of the flashing. Properly sealed, this material provides a watertight seal and is necessary to avoid leaks. 

4. Caulk Gun

A caulk gun is a cheap but essential tool for not just roof maintenance but also general home coverage. It’s used to apply a sealant to fill cracks and gaps in your roofing material or flashing or even your windows and doorways. This adhesive is imperative to ensuring your house is waterproof, making it a crucial investment in your roof’s longevity.

5. Pressure Washer

A pressure washer is a critical instrument for cleaning your roof efficiently. However, using the correct pressure and spray angle and applying only a little force is essential. Too much power can damage shingles or other roofing materials. We recommend starting at the top when cleaning your roof and working your way down to avoid pushing water under the shingles!

Roofing Professionals in Fairfield County

If your roof needs to be replaced or repaired, our team is ready to help! JM Roofing & Siding of Norwalk, CT, will ensure your roof is durable enough to handle anything because our quality is over your head.

Request a free estimate today at 203-299-0716 or online. We look forward to helping you!

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Can Excessive Sun Exposure Damage Your Roof?

Modern summer cottage against a blue sky in the summer garden

The first question that comes to mind is, how exactly does the sun damage your roof? The answer lies in prolonged exposure to UV rays and constant temperature fluctuation throughout the day. These two factors can lead to several issues for your roof’s material, ultimately reducing its lifespan.

Impact of UV Rays

UV rays, which are present even on cloudy days, can break down the substances in roofing materials, causing them to degrade over time. This mainly affects the outer layer, causing it to slowly lose its waterproof qualities. Additionally, if your roof is a darker color, it will absorb more heat, leading to a faster breakdown of materials as the sun’s radiation weakens the bonds that hold them together.

Fluctuating Temperatures On Your Roof

As temperatures rise during the day, your roofing materials will expand, and when the sun sets and the temperatures drop, they will contract. This constant expansion and contraction can lead to cracks, loosened fasteners, and, eventually, leaks in the roof. The risk of damage increases with the roof’s age, as older materials are more susceptible to these temperature-related changes.

How can you tell if excessive sun exposure has damaged your roof? Keep an eye out for the following signs:

1. Curling or cracking shingles: When the sun breaks down the materials in your shingles, they may start to curl or form cracks, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks and further damage.

2. Fading color: Direct sunlight, particularly UV radiation, can cause the colors of your roof to fade over time. Though this is often just a superficial change, in extreme cases, it can indicate that the protective layers of your roof are compromised.

3. Loss of granules: Roof shingles are coated in granules to protect them from the sun’s rays. However, extended exposure can cause these granules to loosen and eventually fall off, leaving your shingles unprotected.

4. Soft or brittle materials: Once the sun weakens the roof’s materials, they may become soft, spongy, or flaky to the touch. This is especially common in asphalt shingles, causing a loss of overall strength and durability.

5. Interior leaks: If any of the above issues are left untreated, you may eventually notice leaks inside your home after heavy rain, ice dams, or snowfall. This indicates that your roof has been weakened to the point where it can no longer adequately protect your home.

How To Prevent Damage 

What can you do to prevent excessive sun exposure from damaging your roof? Prevention and maintenance are key. Regular roof inspections by a professional can help identify any issues early on, allowing you to address them before they become significant problems. Choosing materials resistant to UV rays, like metal or tile, can also provide a long-lasting solution. And remember, adequate attic insulation and ventilation will help regulate temperatures within your home and on your roof.

Roofing Professionals in Fairfield County

If your roof needs to be replaced or repaired, our team is ready to help! JM Roofing & Siding of Norwalk, CT, will ensure your roof is durable enough to handle anything because our quality is over your head.

Request a free estimate today at 203-299-0716 or online. We look forward to helping you!

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How Snow and Ice Can Impact Your Roof

Ice dams and snow on roof and gutters

While snow and ice may be beautiful elements of winter landscapes, they pose significant risks for homeowners if left unchecked: structural issues due to excessive weight, leaks due to improper drainage, moisture penetration via gaps created by freeze-thaw cycles — all these issues require prompt attention before more significant damage occurs! 

In this blog post, we’ll explore how snow and ice can impact your roof and what you can do to prevent or repair any damage.

How Snow Affects Your Roof

Snow accumulation on your roof can lead to several problems. The weight of snow can put stress on your roof’s structure, causing it to weaken or even collapse in extreme cases. Additionally, as the snow melts and refreezes due to temperature fluctuations, it can create ice dams that prevent proper water drainage from your roof. This water buildup can then seep into your home through cracks or leaks in the top, causing water damage.

How Ice Affects Your Roof

Ice buildup on your roof, commonly known as “ice dams,” is caused by the same freeze-thaw cycle as snow. These dams occur when melting snow runs down the roof and then refreezes near the edge of the roofline, which is colder. This creates a barrier that prevents water from draining off the roof properly. As a result, water backs up under shingles or other roofing materials and eventually penetrates into the attic space or living areas below.

Preventing Damage From Snow and Ice

One way to prevent damage from snow and ice is to keep your gutters clean and free of debris so that water can flow freely off your roof. You may also want to consider installing an ice shield beneath your roofing material. An ice shield is designed to prevent water infiltration from wind-driven rain or melting snow by creating a waterproof barrier between the shingles and decking.

If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, consider removing some of the weight from your roof by using a long-handled broom or rake to clear excess snow from its surface. However, make sure not to use sharp objects like shovels that could scratch or puncture the roofing material.

Repairing Damage From Snow and Ice

If you suspect that snow or ice has caused damage to your roof, it’s essential to address it promptly before further damage occurs. Contact our professional roofing team to inspect for leaks, missing shingles or tiles, and damaged flashing around chimneys or vents — all common signs of weather-related wear and tear — and recommend appropriate repairs.

Roofing Repair Experts of Norwalk

Our team of experienced and professional roofing contractors looks forward to serving Connecticut residents’ roofing needs. We can thoroughly examine the roof, identify the underlying problem, and make the needed corrections. Homeowners who notice any preceding concerns are urged to contact us as soon as possible.

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Safety Tips For Taking Down Holiday Lights

Senior man putting away a ball of outdoor Christmas lightsin

The holiday season is long over, and it’s about time that you take down any leftover lights or decorations around your home. But before you do, be sure to follow these safety tips to ensure that everything goes smoothly. Taking down holiday lights can be dangerous if not done properly, so it is important to keep safety in mind as you go through the process. 

Do: Wear Protective Clothing and Equipment

As with any DIY task, it’s important to wear protective gear when taking down holiday lights. This includes: 

  • Gloves
  • Eye protection
  • Long Sleeves
  • Comfortable clothes
  • Sturdy shoes

You should also invest in a ladder stabilizer or stand-off stabilizer for extra support while on the ladder. Taking these simple precautions can help prevent accidents from occurring during the process. 

Don’t: Rush

Make sure to take your time when removing holiday lights from your home or office building. Rushing can cause you to make mistakes that could lead to serious injury or property damage. It is best to start at the top of the building and work your way down; this will help ensure that all lights are properly taken down without missing any steps in the process. 

Do: Disconnect Lights From Their Electrical Source

Before starting to remove any lights, be sure to disconnect them from their electrical source first! This will prevent any electric shocks while handling the cords or bulbs. It is also important to unplug all outdoor lighting fixtures and indoor ones; failure to do so could potentially result in a fire hazard if exposed wires are present in either situation.  

Don’t: Climb or Work on This Alone

Remembering the buddy system is the most effective way to ensure you’re safe while taking down lights and decorations. Having someone with you to support your ladder, watch for any dangerous areas, and talk you through what you can’t see makes all the difference. 

Roofing Professionals in Fairfield County

If your roof needs to be replaced or repaired, our team is ready to help! JM Roofing & Siding of Norwalk, CT, will ensure your roof is durable enough to handle anything because our quality is over your head.

Request a free estimate today at 203-299-0716 or online. We look forward to helping you!

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Can I Replace My Roof In The Winter?

Young woman female homeowner standing in front of house garage in coat jacket during winter storm holding two roof tile shingles inspecting damage

Replacing your roof can be a big project, requiring careful consideration and planning. And one of the most important questions to consider is when you replace your roof. Many people wonder if they should wait until the warmer months or if it’s safe to replace your roof during the winter: 

Can You Replace Your Roof In The Winter? 

The short answer is yes, you can replace your roof during the winter season—but there are some things you should consider before doing so. First and foremost, safety should always be your top priority when working on any construction project, particularly one as large as replacing a roof. If your area experiences bad weather during the winter months, such as ice or snowstorms, then it may not be safe for workers to access or work on your roof. 

Additionally, cold temperatures can cause materials like asphalt to become brittle and harden prematurely, making them difficult to work with. 

What Else Should I Consider? 

In addition to safety concerns, there are also practical considerations when deciding if now is the right time for a new roof installation. For example, many contractors experience an uptick in business during the summer months because customers prefer having their roofs replaced while temperatures are milder. As a result, scheduling an appointment for a winter replacement may be more difficult than getting one planned for later in the year due to contractor availability. 

Not only that, but some suppliers may have limited supplies available during colder months due to decreased demand from clients who prefer warm-weather installations. 

Replacing a roof is no small task; it’s an investment that requires careful thought and planning before any work begins.

Roofing Replacements in Fairfield County

If your roof needs to be replaced or repaired in case of an emergency, our team is ready to help! JM Roofing & Siding of Norwalk, CT, will ensure your roof is durable enough to handle anything, even solar panels, because our quality is over your head.

Request a free estimate today at 203-299-0716 or online. We look forward to helping you!

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Last-Minute Holiday To-Do List

Holiday decorations. Christmas or winter planning concept. Flat lay style.

The holiday season is upon us, and it can be an extremely stressful time of year. There’s shopping, decorating, cleaning, and more that all need to be done in a short amount of time. It can be overwhelming! But don’t worry; we have put together a last-minute holiday to-do list to help you easily get through this hectic season. 

Finish Last-Minute Gift Shopping

With just a few days left before the holidays, it is important to ensure all your gifts are purchased and prepared to give out. If there are any items you’ve been meaning to pick up but haven’t had the chance to yet, now is the time! Make sure you visit your local stores or shop online for anything you might need so you won’t end up empty-handed come Christmas day.

Wrap Presents

Once all your gifts have been acquired, wrap them up nicely with festive paper or bags. This helps make the surprise even better when they open it on Christmas. Not only will wrapping your presents add an extra special touch, but it also helps keep everything organized and tidy under the tree!

Clean Your House

The holidays are always a great time for family gatherings and get-togethers. Before everyone arrives at your home, it is important to do some housekeeping and deep cleaning so that everything looks presentable and inviting. Start by dusting off surfaces and organizing any clutter lying around; this will make things look much better in no time! 

Keep an Eye on Your Roofing

There are many ways to prepare for the holidays, but one that often goes overlooked is checking on your roofing system. Winter storms can wreak havoc on roofs, so make sure yours is still in good condition before things get too chilly outside. Have a professional inspect your roof for any obvious damage or needed repairs, so nothing unexpected happens over the next few months.  

Roofing Professionals in Fairfield County

If your roof needs to be replaced or repaired, our team is ready to help! JM Roofing & Siding of Norwalk, CT, will ensure your roof is durable enough to handle anything because our quality is over your head.

Request a free estimate today at 203-299-0716 or online. We look forward to helping you!

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Best Guide to Holiday Lights

Decorating for the holidays is a festive tradition, and lights are essential for setting the right atmosphere. But it’s important to stay safe while stringing up your decorations. Follow these tips to ensure you enjoy your holiday season without any unfortunate incidents. 

Inspect Light Strings

Before you hang them, inspect each light string closely and discard any broken bulbs or frayed wires. These can easily cause a fire hazard if not handled properly. If you notice any damage while they’re hung up, switch off the power immediately and replace them as soon as possible. 

Ensure Outdoor Lights are Weatherproof 

If you’re using outdoor lights, make sure all the strings are labeled “weatherproof” or “waterproof.” This will help prevent them from short-circuiting in wet conditions, which could cause a safety hazard. And keep in mind that most indoor lights are not designed for outdoor use so avoid using them outdoors unless specified otherwise by the manufacturer. 

Don’t Attach Light Strings with Nails or Staples

When hanging up your lights, it can be tempting to use a nail or staple gun to secure them in place quickly and easily. Unfortunately, this is not recommended since it can damage the wires of each light string or cause damage to your insulation, siding, or roofing. It’s best to stick with plastic clips or hooks that come with your light strings instead! 

Avoid Climbing by Yourself

When working on higher levels of your decorations, such as roofs or other tall structures, it’s always best to bring someone along who can help spot you and provide assistance whenever necessary. It is also worth investing in some safety gear like harnesses and gloves just in case of any accidents or injuries while working at heights! 

Roofing Professionals in Fairfield County

If your roof needs to be replaced or repaired, our team is ready to help! JM Roofing & Siding of Norwalk, CT, will ensure your roof is durable enough to handle anything because our quality is over your head.

Request a free estimate today at 203-299-0716 or online. We look forward to helping you become eco-friendly!

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How Hail Can Damage Your Roof

Roof shingles with large hailstones after hail storm

Living in Connecticut, we are all too familiar with the dangers of hail. Those little balls of ice can wreak havoc on your property, and your roof is no exception. In fact, hail damage is becoming one of the most common types of roof damage we see here. So, how does hail impact your roof, and what can you do to prevent it? Read on to find out.

How Does Hail Damage Your Roof?

Hail damage occurs when hailstones hit your roof and break or chip the surface of your shingles. Over time, this can lead to leaks and other serious problems. Hail damage is often mistaken for wear and tear or different types of breaks, so it’s important to have a professional inspect your roof after a hail storm to ensure that any damage is properly repaired. 

How Can You Prevent Hail Damage?

There are a few things you can do to prevent hail damage to your roof:

  1. Ensure that your gutters are clear of debris so they can properly drain water away from your roof.
  2. Have a professional inspect your roof regularly to ensure it is in good repair; this will help prevent small troubles from becoming big ones.
  3. Consider installing impact-resistant shingles; these are designed to withstand the collision of hailstones better than traditional shingles, which can help reduce the damage that hail can do to your roof. 

Staying Safe

Hailstorms are no joke here in Connecticut, and they can do some serious damage to your property — including your roof. If you suspect that your roof has been broken by hail, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional as soon as possible. Stay safe out there!

Roofing Repair Experts of Norwalk

Our team of experienced and professional roofing contractors looks forward to serving Connecticut residents’ roofing needs. We can thoroughly examine the roof, identify the underlying problem, and make the needed corrections. Homeowners who notice any preceding concerns are urged to contact us as soon as possible.

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Holiday Fire Prevention Tips

Holiday lights on home at night

The holiday season is a time for friends, family, and celebrations. But it’s also a time when home fires increase. In fact, December is the peak month for home fires in the United States, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Use these tips to help prevent fires and keep your loved ones safe this holiday season.

Use Safe Lights

When it comes to holiday lights, LED bulbs are the way to go. Not only do they use less energy, but they also generate less heat—and as we all know, heat is one of the main culprits of fires. If you’re using string lights, make sure they’re labeled “UL” (Underwriters Laboratories), which means they’ve been safety tested. And when you’re putting up lights, be sure not to overload outlets or extension cords—this is a common cause of fires during the holidays.

Keep Your Tree Fresh

If you’re using a real tree this year, make sure to keep it watered at all times. A dry plant is much more likely to catch fire than a fresh one. When choosing a tree, look for one with green needles that aren’t falling off—this indicates a healthy evergreen. And when setting up your tree, be sure to place it away from heat sources like fireplaces and radiators.

Be Careful with Candles

Candles are another common cause of holiday fires. If you’re using candles in your home this season, be sure to blow them out before leaving the room or going to bed. It’s also important to keep them away from flammable objects like curtains, trees, and wreaths. And never leave children unattended in a room with the flame lit!

Roofing Professionals in Fairfield County

If your roof needs to be replaced or repaired in case of an emergency, our team is ready to help! JM Roofing & Siding of Norwalk, CT, will ensure your roof is durable enough to handle anything, even solar panels because our quality is over your head.

Request a free estimate today at 203-299-0716 or online. We look forward to helping you become eco-friendly!

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Can Ice Affect Your Siding Color?

Frozen Electrical Utility Meter

The winter months are coming, and with them, the worries of ice damage. Although, many homeowners need to consider how the winter season can contribute to your siding color fading. While the sun is notoriously known for being a burden on your exterior paints, ice can also deal a good amount of damage. 

Ice can be one of the most damaging things to your home because not only does it have the potential to cause structural damage but also to affect the color of your siding. If you’re worried about this happening to you, then there are a few ways that ice could affect your siding color to keep an eye out for. 

Melting or Freezing

Whether it’s melting off or freezing on, ice can cause long-term discoloration for your siding. If there is an issue with moisture behind your house, then when the ice melts on top of it and evaporates, it will leave behind stains. Not only that, but if the ice melts and refreezes, it will create a layer of frost on top of the water, which could potentially stain or bleach your siding if left for too long.

Drywall Issues

Another way ice affects paint is when water seeps into gaps in walls and freezes, expanding as it freezes and causing cracks in drywall. It might not seem like a big issue at first, but over time, those breaks in your paint will become more and more obvious as the seasons go by. 

Winter Storm Issues

We’ve seen our fair share of winter storms. High winds from these weather conditions can cause large amounts of salt and sand from winter road treatments to mix in with snow or sleet. In turn, this slushy ice has the potential to land on your siding, with the chemicals harming the hue of your home’s exterior. 

Changes in Light Reflection

Did you know that ice changes how light reflects off of a surface? When water accumulates on the surface of your siding, this can lead to moisture that affects how light bounces off the exterior materials. Consequently, this causes discoloration — depending on what type of material is affected by the ice and how dark or light it is. 

Contact Us For Siding Installations in Norwalk

When it comes to ensuring your siding lasts and is safe for your family, you need to hire the best contractor possible. The experts at JM Roofing and Siding are licensed and insured to serve you in Norwalk, Connecticut, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today for a free estimate!