Tips and Tricks Archives - JM Roofing & Siding

April 13, 2023April 17, 2023

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!

February 25, 2023February 28, 2023

Roof Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

Residence, Home With Vinyl Siding, Brick, Gabled Architectural Design

Taking care of your home’s roof is essential for protecting both your property and family from outside elements like rain or snowfall effectively. Regular inspection, gutter cleaning, trimming overhanging branches, repairing damages immediately, and hiring professional contractors all contribute towards maintaining an efficient roofing system in place that will last for years without causing any issues!

So if you want to keep your home safe and dry year-round, make sure that you follow these simple tips for proper roof maintenance!

1. Inspect Your Roof Regularly

It’s essential to inspect your roof regularly, especially after severe weather events like storms or heavy snowfalls. Look out for any signs of damage, such as missing or cracked shingles, leaks, or sagging areas.

2. Keep Your Gutters Clean

Clogged gutters can cause water to back up under the shingles and damage the roofing materials. Make sure to clean your gutters regularly and remove any debris that could cause blockages.

3. Trim Overhanging Branches

Overhanging branches can scrape against your windows and your roof, damaging your glass and shingles over time. This will cause scratch marks on your home — which no one wants to deal with! Make sure to trim back any branches that hang over your roof regularly.

4. Repair Any Damage Promptly

If you notice any damage during your regular inspections, make sure to repair it promptly. The longer you wait, the more extensive the damage can become, leading to costly repairs down the line.

5. Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor

While there are many DIY solutions available for minor repairs, when it comes to significant issues with your roof, it’s best to hire a professional roofing contractor who has experience in handling these types of problems.

Roofing Professionals in Fairfield County

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

February 13, 2023February 22, 2023

What to Ask a Roofing Contractor

Client and contractors handshake after completing a housing construction project. Concept of cooperation and support for construction projects.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor

Roofs are one of the most important parts of any home. Not only do they provide protection from the elements, but they also add aesthetic value to your property. Therefore, it’s crucial that you take the time to choose the right roofing contractor for your project.

To help you out, here’s a list of questions to consider asking any prospective roofer before signing on the dotted line.

Questions About Experience and Credentials

The first questions you should ask any potential roofer should pertain to their experience and credentials. How long has this contractor been in business? What kind of qualifications do they have (e.g., certifications, licenses, etc.)? Do they have any references or testimonials from previous clients that you can review? Asking these questions will help ensure the contractor you hire is qualified and experienced enough to handle the job correctly and efficiently.

Questions About Insurance Coverage

Another important question you should ask any potential roofer is what kind of insurance coverage they carry. This is especially important if there’s a chance of workers being injured while working on your roof or other damage resulting from their workmanship.

It’s essential that your roofer carry both liability insurance for any damage caused by their employees as well as workers’ compensation insurance in case anyone is injured while performing work on your property.

Questions About Materials Used

Finally, ask what type of materials the contractor plans on using for your project. Different kinds of materials may require other installation methods — and not all contractors are familiar with every type of material available on the market today. So it’s best to get an idea ahead of time exactly which materials will be used so that there won’t be any surprises when it comes time for installation.

Choosing The Right Roof For Your Fairfield County Home

When it comes to ensuring your roof 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.

February 7, 2023February 16, 2023

Roofing for New Homeowners: What You Need to Know

Holding house keys on house shaped keychain concept for buying a new home

Congratulations on becoming a homeowner! There are so many exciting things that come with owning your own home, but there’s also the responsibility of taking care of all the systems that keep it running. One of those is your roof.

Knowing how to maintain your roof properly is essential for ensuring it lasts as long as possible and for protecting the safety of your family. Let’s look at what new homeowners need to know about roofing.

Types of Roofs

The type of roof you have will determine what materials you use and how you maintain it. The most common types are asphalt shingle roofs, metal roofs, flat roofs, tile roofs, and slate roofs. Asphalt shingles are the most common and affordable option, while metal can last longer but can be more expensive upfront.

Tile is a great choice if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions because it tends to hold up better than other options. Slate is also durable but can be difficult to install and repair due to its weight and cost.

Roof Maintenance

No matter what type of roof you have, regular maintenance is key to ensuring it lasts as long as possible. The best way to do this is by doing twice-yearly inspections—once in spring and once in fall—to check for any signs of damage or wear-and-tear that might need repair or replacement.

It’s also important to make sure all parts of the roof are securely fastened down, so they don’t blow away in high winds or heavy rains; this includes gutter guards and ventilation screens if applicable. If done properly, these inspections should only take an hour or two each time but could potentially save you thousands in repairs down the line!

Hiring a Professional Roofer

If you encounter serious damage or think something might be wrong with your roof but aren’t sure what it is, then it’s always best to call in a professional roofer with experience dealing with these kinds of issues. They can inspect your roof thoroughly and identify any potential problems before they become major issues that require costly repairs or replacements later on down the line.

Plus, having a professional examine your roof regularly can help catch minor damages early on so they can be taken care of quickly without costing too much money or time on repairs/replacements later on down the road!

Roofing Professionals in Fairfield County

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

January 26, 2023February 2, 2023

To DIY or Not To DIY

House Made Up Of Measuring Tapes And Tools

We all want to save money by doing things ourselves. It’s natural to consider tackling projects around the house on our own. But before you start that project, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of doing it yourself (DIY) versus hiring someone who specializes in the task at hand.

Let’s look at three key questions to ask yourself when deciding whether DIY is the best option for your project.

Do You Have The Tools or Equipment?

In most cases, you can only jump into a project with the right tools and equipment. For example, if you’re planning on replacing an old faucet, you’ll need specialty wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers made specifically for plumbing projects. If you don’t already have them on hand, it may be more cost-effective to hire a professional who has all the necessary tools and equipment they need to do the job properly.

Do You Have The Background Knowledge?

It’s one thing to have the right tools, but do you know how they should be used? Consider this same example of replacing a roofing shingle or piece; if you’ve never done roof work before, it will take time and some trial-and-error before you can complete the task properly.

This could become costly if something goes wrong and needs correcting or replacing. In this case, it would be better for a homeowner with little or no background knowledge in roofing repair to call in a professional so that their work is done correctly from start to finish.

Have You Ever Done A Similar Project?

If this isn’t your first rodeo when it comes to DIY projects around the home, then there’s likely no reason why you shouldn’t take on this new challenge yourself! Make sure that any projects requiring a professional hand are handled with extreme care to avoid personal injury. If the project proves to be more than an amateur can bear, please get in touch with a certified handyperson instead of attempting any repairs yourself.

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!

September 27, 2022September 28, 2022

Roof Algae: What is it and How Do I Remove it?

Even though it’s not easy to spot, unless you’re extremely tall, roof algae could form all over your roof. Not only is it unsightly when found, but it can also be dangerous if left to grow and accumulate. Left untreated, it could lead to the growth of mold and mildew that can destroy your home’s interior as well as affect your health.

Fortunately, there are ways to get rid of this issue and tackle it safely. The experts here at JM Roofing and Siding know why this substance forms, how to remove everything from your roof and home, and how to keep it from forming again in the future.

What is Roof Algae?

There are many different types of algae, but the two most common types found on roofs are black and green algae. Black algae is more difficult to remove than green because black algae grows in moist areas, while green thrives on dry surfaces. If the top of your house has a lot of dead vegetation or other organic material that can harbor moisture, then your risk for algae growth increases.

How do Your Remove Roof Algae?

If you find this problem on your home, gently scrub your roof with a soft bristle brush, rinse with water, and avoid using soap. Rinsing the area well will help to remove all traces of algae! If you do use soap, be sure to rinse off any residue completely, or else the soap may discolor your shingles. Repeat this process regularly (weekly or bi-weekly), especially during hot summer months, to prevent further growth of algae on your roof.

Best Practices to Avoid Roof Algae in the Future

Simply put, maintenance is the best preventative practice for protecting your humble abode! The best way to avoid roof algae in the future is to stay on top of your maintenance and have your roof inspected at least once every year. However, if you are having trouble cleaning up an established growth, professional help might be needed.

Roofing Professionals in Fairfield County

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

August 25, 2022September 14, 2022

How to Determine if Your Roof Needs to be Repaired or Replaced

Roofs are expensive, and replacing an entire roof can be even more so. The best way to cut down on these costs is to ensure you’re getting the most out of your current roof. If it’s in good shape, you can get several more years out of it by repairing it as needed. However, if it’s completely worn out or badly damaged, it might be time to install a new one. By following these steps, you’ll be able to know for sure whether your roof needs repair or replacement.

Is Your Roof Worn Out?

Over time, it’s normal for roofs to become worn out and damaged. But whether or not it’s battered to the point of needing an enter replacement depends. One of the main indicators that your roof is worn out is missing, curling, or cracked shingles. If you notice these signs, it’s time to repair your roof. However, if it’s falling apart, breaking off, or not providing proper protection — a replacement is in order!

Does Your Roof Leak?

One of the first things you’ll want to check for is whether or not your roof is leaking. If you notice any water stains on your ceiling, it’s a good indication that your roof is leaking and needs to be repaired or replaced. If you are experiencing heavy amounts of water damage issues, it’s time to start anew with your roofing.

Are There Safety Concerns?

If your roof leaks, has structural damage or is missing shingles, it probably needs to be repaired. However, if more than half of your roof is damaged, it may be time to replace it. Replacing your roof can be a big investment, but keeping you and your family safe all year long is essential.

Have a Professional Help You Decide

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, and it needs to be in good condition to protect the rest of your house from the elements. If you suspect that your roof needs repair or replacement, consider contacting a professional roofing company to help you decide what is best for your needs.

It would help if you also had your roof inspected at least once every 3-5 years by a licensed and qualified inspector who can honestly assess your roof’s current state.

Roofing 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.

May 19, 2022May 24, 2022

3 Signs Your Windows Need to be Replaced

Window repairs are often overlooked in the spring and summer months, but neglecting to repair or replace a faulty window could be costly this upcoming summer season. After all, with hot weather comes hotter temperatures that can lead to leaking windows and other problems. If you notice any signs of water damage or a faulty window, now is the time to act! Read on for three indications that could mean it’s time for new windows:

1. Water Damage

If you notice any puddles on the floor near your window after it rains, there might be an issue with your window that is causing leaks. This is because there might be an issue with the window sealant, which needs to be replaced. This can lead to water damage and even mold build-up. Another reason for water to get into your home through your windows is if they have not been updated in a long time.

After years of hot and cold weather, protecting you from rain and wind, as well as offering natural light, it makes sense that they can start to become weaker over time. Cracks and breaks are possible, along with issues with your screens. Water loves to get into spots that you sometimes might not even notice.

2. Loose Seals

As stated before, many people are not aware that their window sealant may require replacement. If you notice any obvious spikes in your energy bills, it is possible that the bond on your windows is loose and needs to be replaced.

3. Drafts

Notice an obvious difference in temperature near certain windows throughout your home? Sometimes it’s not as easy to notice a loose seal in your windows, but homeowners will certainly be able to detect drafts. Besides a change in energy bills, you’ll also feel your cool air escaping during a warm day, no matter how high you put your AC, and vice versa for cold days and your heating.

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!

March 31, 2022March 31, 2022

Will Roof Vents Prevent Condensation?

When it comes to keeping your attic cool and free of condensation, it requires proper ventilation. Not only that, but it also helps regulate temperature control in your home to make it energy efficient. There are many ways ventilation helps, not just with condensation, making it an essential part of roof maintenance and installation. Here’s a full, in-depth look at roof vents and why you should make sure yours are up to par this season.

Negative Effects of Condensation

Condensation can be a huge problem for your attic, causing mold and mildew to grow. This will also cause moisture damage to your home’s insulation. Roof vents are often overlooked when preventing condensation, but they’re an easy and inexpensive way to reduce the risk of getting moisture in your home.

Is Condensation Normal to Have?

Surprisingly, many homeowners tend to find condensation in their attic and nearby areas. It’s estimated that about 1 in 5 houses deals with this problem yearly. Some common signs of condensation include:

Dampness throughout your attic or roof
Water accumulation inside your roof tiles
Water damage on your roof membrane
Mold or mildew build-up
Strange smells in your attic

How Roof Vents Help With Condensation

The purpose of roof vents is to regulate the temperature in your attic or roof space. The air will stay fresh as it circulates and reduces any risk of condensation. So, with this space keeping a moderate climate, intense temperatures cannot get inside and cause a build-up of moisture levels.

It Also Protects From Intense Heat

Not only do your roof vents help with moisture control, but they also ensure your roof doesn’t get too hot in the spring and summer. Properly installed roof vents can provide relief from excessive heat in the attic. Roof vents are designed to expel warm air out of an attic to circulate new, cooler air.

So, if it’s been a while since you last had your roof vents updated, our JM Roofing and Siding team is here to help!

Roofing Experts of Norwalk

March 18, 2022March 18, 2022

Can Roof Moss be Composted?

It is a common occurrence for roofs to get moss on them. It can be unsightly and detract from the curb appeal of your home. While some types of moss are beneficial to the environment, most roof moss is more of an issue than anything else. Roof moss can block sunlight from getting into your home and increase cooling costs by up to 20%. Luckily, removing this problem is quick, easy, and eco-friendly!

Why Does Moss Form?

Often, moss, algae, and other issues will form on your roof due to moisture and outdoor debris. The more water gets on your roof or debris ends up stuck, the more it will be susceptible to turning green. Also, parts of your roof that receive the least amount of sun tend to get these moss spots more easily.

How to Remove Moss From Your Roof

No matter how confident you are in your home maintenance skills, removing the moss from your roof is a matter that is best left to professionals. This is suggested mainly because moss can create slippery surfaces, making climbing up unsafe for homeowners.

A professional will come in and hose off the worst areas downwards with water. After, they’ll utilize a soft-bristle scrub brush to remove any remaining moss. Professionals will know how to go about this without lifting up your shingles or damaging them.

How to Compost The Moss

Any leftover amounts of moss that washed down from your roof can, in fact, be composted! Whether you are placing it in a composting bin or throwing some into your garden, try to avoid adding too much. Moss can spread easily, so as long as it’s a smaller amount and mainly the ones that fell off your roof in pieces after getting washed off, it can provide a nutrient-rich environment in its new home.

And if any leaks or damage occurred due to the large build-up of moss on your roof, our team here at JM Roofing is here to assist you with all your repair and maintenance needs!