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Is today finally the day you’re going to fix the small hole in your siding that you’ve noticed every day as you pull into your driveway? Not only is a hole unsightly, it acts as an open door for rain, bugs, mold and mildew to come into your home. If you notice a hole in your siding, the worst thing you can do is leave it alone. Take matters into your own hands and fix it in just a few steps.  

Step 1: Step away from the caulk gun.

If the hole is more than a 1/4 of an inch, caulk won’t solve the problem. While installing a new piece is the easiest solution, that piece probably won’t match the faded siding around it. So what’s a homeowner to do? With a small gap, your best bet is to try sliding the panels together.

Step 2: Head to the hardware store.

To slide two pieces back together, you’ll need a zip tool. While you probably won’t find this in most home tool kits, they’re available at almost any hardware store.

Step 3: Unlock the overlapping pieces.

Follow the instructions on the back of your zip tool packaging and free the pieces on each side of the gap. Then, slide the panels back together until they overlap slightly. Before you celebrate closing this gap, make sure you didn’t pull the siding too far and open another hole on the opposite end.

Step 4: Secure your siding.

If your siding is now completely covering your home, it’s time to secure it in place. Drive a nail through the right side of the flange hole at the end of the left-hand piece. While you want your siding to be sturdy, you don’t want to drive the nail in too deep, since vinyl siding expands and contracts throughout the year.

At JM Roofing and Siding, the siding we install will protect your home, save energy, enhance the value of your property, and last for years. Whether you’re looking to replace or update your siding, we’ve got your house covered! For more information, give us a call at 203-299-0716.  

Whether it’s your very first house or you’re an avid mover, few things are more exciting than moving into a new house. So naturally, most people choose to celebrate this new chapter of their life with a housewarming party. But what do you get your friends or family who just moved into a new house? Whether you want to go practical or stylish, here are a few things every new homeowner will want.

1. A Tool Kit

This may not seem like the most exciting gift at first (especially if your friends aren’t exactly handymen), but they’ll be thanking you when a pipe starts leaking in the middle of the night and they have a wrench on hand.

2. A Comfortable Throw

Because every good couch needs an equally good blanket.

3. A Coffee Machine

Now that their nights will be spent setting up furniture and clearing out boxes, they’ll need all the caffeine they can get.

4. Flowers

Spruce up an unfinished home with a few colorful plants.

5. A First Aid Kit

Again, this may not be the most exciting gift at the time, but every home needs a good first aid kit — and most don’t get one until after the first injury.

6. Advice

There’s nothing new homeowners want more than some good advice. If you’ve owned your home for years and know the names of a few good contractors or professionals, jot them down in a nice notebook. It’ll certainly come in handy when your friends notice the first sign of trouble.

7. Kitchen Essentials

Get them all the kitchen essentials they’ll need in one fell swoop.

8. One Good Cookbook

Sure you can get plenty of recipes online nowadays, but there’ still something so charming about having a cookbook on the kitchen counter.

For 15 years, JM Roofing & Siding has been a family owned and operated residential roofing and siding company, proudly serving New Canaan, Greenwich and Norwalk areas. 

Your roof is important for many reasons. While it protects your furniture and belongings, it also protects those who you love most, so it’s important that it stays in good condition. Whether you just got the keys to your dream home, or have been living there for the better part of a decade, it’s never too soon or too late to learn a little more about your home.

1. How old your roof is.

Was the roof constructed a year before you bought the house, or 15? When deciding whether to repair or replace your roof, you’ll need to know this. If you’re incredibly organized and still have your home’s written inspection filed away, it will likely say the year your roof was installed. If you don’t have it, a professional can likely tell you how old your roof is.  

2. How your roof is ventilated.

Ventilation is sometimes seen as a bad word, especially in the summer months when homeowners are doing everything they can to keep their cool air in. But in reality, ventilation is incredibly important for your home’s health, since roofs that aren’t properly ventilated are susceptible to mold and mildew.

3. How a leak is happening.

Contrary to popular belief, leaks aren’t always caused by a hole in the roof. More often than not, it’s caused by over saturated tiles and spotty workmanship. 

4. Your gutters need love too.

Gutters play a key role in protecting your home and basement from leaks (see, we told you it wasn’t always from a hole in the roof!). The rain that falls off of your roof needs somewhere to go, so if your gutters are filled with leaves, twigs, and frisbees, they’re not able to do their job. 

5. Roof repairs shouldn’t be left to DIY handymen (or handywomen).

We’re all for the DIY trend of turning old dressers into bookshelves, but roof repairs should be left to the professionals. Not only are roof repairs difficult and time consuming, but they’re incredibly dangerous.

No matter what you’re looking for, JM Roofing & Siding can provide you with a wide variety of residential roofing services, including new roof installation, roof replacement, roof repair, and year-round roofing maintenance. To learn how our experienced roofers can help you, give us a call at 203-299-0716!

Plants improve the look and feel of any home. But while adding greenery to your front and backyard is great for your home’s curb appeal and the environment, you should make sure you’re not sacrificing functionality for beauty. If you’re looking to brighten up your home with a few plants this summer, here are a few you might want to cross off the list.

Ivy

For those of you who love the look and feel of an Old English home, ivy can add beautiful texture and color to a traditional home. But, that beauty may come at a cost. Ivy is a fast growing vine plant and can work its way into even the smallest cracks between your bricks and vinyl siding. With enough time, ivy can begin to crack the foundation and walls of your house.

Ivy has also been known to attract unwanted insects and pests, since their structure makes it easy for squirrels and other rodents to climb into your attic. 

Shrubs

Shrubs look beautiful when they’re lining the driveway of your house, or planted in the flower garden in your backyard, but shrubs sitting right beside your home isn’t a good idea. Because they grow thick and quickly, they can scrape against and mark-up your siding.

Trees

Overgrown tree roots cost homeowners millions of dollars in structural and roofing damages every year. A good rule of thumb for trees is to plant them no less than 30 feet away from your house. But it’s not just tree limbs and roots you need to be on the lookout for. Some mature trees drink as much as 300 gallons of water a day. Overtime, all that water can saturate and weaken the soil and foundation under your house.

At JM Roofing and Siding, the siding and roofing we install will protect your home, save energy, enhance the value of your property, and last for years. Whether you’re looking to replace or update your home’s fixtures, we’ve got your house covered! For more information, give us a call at 203-299-0716.  

 

Years of wind, rain, sun, and a rogue soccer ball here-and-there can fade even the brightest vinyl siding. And with summer just a few days away, that sun is only going to get more and more intense. If your vinyl siding is in need of a pick-me-up, here’s the best way to bring it back to life.

What you’ll need:

• Bucket
• Water
• Vinegar
• Hose
• 1 Soft brush
• Vinyl-siding restoration product
• Synthetic bristle paintbrush
• Paint roller with a long handle

Directions:

Step 1: Mix vinegar and water in a large bucket (30 percent vinegar to 70 percent water). This mixture will eliminate dirt, dust, pollen, and mold. If after scrubbing a small area your siding still isn’t looking as bright as you want, try mixing in a little bit of laundry detergent.

Step 2: Pre-rinse the vinyl siding with a hose. To reach every surface, attach a garden sprayer to the end of it.

Step 3: Using a soft brush, apply the vinegar and water mixture to your house. For the best results, start at the bottom and work your way up — this will keep the bottom consistently wet and prevent streaking.

Step 4: Now that you’ve just scrubbed every nook and cranny of your house, apply a coat of of vinyl siding restoration to each panel. This will prevent future sun damage and protect all of your hard work.

 

If you’re tired of refurbishing your siding every year, it might be time for new siding all together! At JM Roofing and Siding, the siding we install will protect your home, save energy, enhance the value of your property, and last for years. Whether you’re looking to replace or update your siding, we’ve got your house covered! For more information, give us a call at 203-299-0716.  

There’s something so inherently annoying about a door that doesn’t shut right. Somehow, this one little thing has the ability to throw off the feel of your entire room. But ill fitting doors aren’t just a cosmetic problem, they can also be a drain on your energy bill. Whether it slams closed, sags, or swings back and forth, here are a few ways you can quickly fix any door.

A swinging door.

If your door swings open every time a breeze rolls in, just:

1. Remove one of the hinge pins and lay it across a nail.
2. Tap the pin with a hammer and reinsert it.

The extra friction you just added to the hinges should prevent your door from swinging open.  

A sagging door.

Your front door should swing open between half an inch and an inch above your floor. So if your door is scraping against the floor, you probably just have to secure the screws. To do this:

1. Take the screws out and leave them somewhere safe (since you’ll be placing them back in at the end).
2. Dip a match in white glue and place it into the screw holes.
3. Using a craft knife, trim the matches until they are flush against the wood.
4. Leave the glue to dry for about one hour (time may depend on what kind of glue you use) and replace the screw.

Now, that extra wood will help secure the nail’s grip.

A stuck door.

One of the most common front door problems is that the door just doesn’t sit in its frame. If your door is spring bound and hard to close:

1. Remove the screws from the top hinge.
2. Cut a few pieces of cardboard to the same size as the hinge plate. Then, pack it into the top hinge plate.
3. Once it’s packed, screw the hinge plate back on.
4. Repeat these steps for each hinge on your door until it’s secure.

Because you don’t have to completely take the door off of its hinges to do this, this is an easy technique that almost anyone can do.

A front door is the entryway to your home, so it’s important that it looks its best. But, don’t stop there! Make sure your house is in tip-top shape by replacing any siding that’s been lost or damaged. At JM Roofing and Siding, the siding we install will protect your home, save energy, enhance the value of your property, and last for years. Whether you’re looking to replace or update your siding, we’ve got your house covered! For more information, give us a call at 203-299-0716.  

When it comes to energy efficiency, most homeowners are always looking for the latest gadget that promises to lower their energy use or make their home more green. And while products like energy efficient washers and dryers are can do that to an extent, the real answer to your energy troubles might be simpler than you’d think.

Insulation is the most practical and cost effective way to make your home more energy efficient. When compared to a house with no or poor insulation, homeowners in a properly insulated house spent nearly 40 percent less on their heating and cooling bill, all while keeping their home at the same temperature.

But there’s no one-size-fits-all method for insulating a house. To have your house properly insulated, you’ll need to tackle each area individually.

The attic. The attic is the most important part of your home in terms of insulation. The outer shell of your home is what prevents your cool air (or hot air in the winter) from escaping outside. The better insulated your attic is, the less money you’ll have to spend pumping in cool air.  

Air ducts. Homes with central air and heating should have their ducts inspected for small cracks or gaps. Leaky ducts have been known to lower efficiency by as much as 20 percent, so make sure all of your air is going where it’s supposed to!

Air leaks. Even homes with the best insulation can suffer from air leaks due to cracked siding and ill fitting windows. Save on energy use by caulking and weather-stripping any holes you find.

Siding. Insulation doesn’t just belong inside your home anymore, it’s also important on the outside. Cracked and damaged siding not only makes your home more susceptible to weather damage, but it also leaves your house feeling drafty. Insulated vinyl and aluminum are great choices because they come with a layer of foam attached to them, which improves their R-value (how great a material’s insulating power is).

 

At JM Roofing and Siding, the siding we install will protect your home, save energy, enhance the value of your property, and last for years. Whether you’re looking to replace or update your siding, we’ve got your house covered! For more information, give us a call at 203-299-0716.  

Okay, we know it probably sounds like a silly question — “What can metal roofs be made from?” The obvious answer is, well, “metal.” But there are plenty of different types of metal that you can choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. 

Tin. Though it may be called “tin,” tin roofs are made from a surprisingly low amount of tin. Tin roofs are actually made from a number of soft materials, then coated in a mixture of tin and lead. When installed properly, a tin roof can last for as long as 50 years. 

Galvanized steel. These roofs are typically made from a sheet of alloyed steel and then coated with zinc. Two big advantages of galvanized steel roofs are that they’re relatively inexpensive and will last for 60+ years because they are highly rust-resistant. But, they will require plenty of maintenance throughout the warmer and colder months.

Aluminum. It seems like with each passing year, aluminum roofs get more and more popular. And that’s no surprise, seeing as how they are corrosion-resistant and require very little maintenance. For those who live in warmer climates, aluminum roofs are also known as cool roofs, because they reflect sunlight instead of absorb it into your home.

Copper. Copper is definitely the longest lasting metal roofing option, but it’s becoming less and less popular seeing as how its also one of the most expensive options, and can be difficult to find in large quantities. 

Here at JM Roofing & Siding, we offer a variety of metal roofing options that will provide an authentic look without the drawbacks of mold growth, rotting, high maintenance, and unreasonable costs. To learn more about your metal roofing options, call us today at 203-299-0716 to learn more and request a FREE ESTIMATE. Let our experienced roofers help you!

It’s no surprise that the summer is most people’s favorite season. After all, who doesn’t love warm weather, barbecues, relaxing on the beach, and fresh fruit? But, while there are a million reasons to love summer, there is one big reason to fear its arrival — your energy bill. This year, before you decide to rip your air conditioners out of the wall, look to these energy saving tips to help get you through the summer.

Wash your clothes in cold water. Not only is cold water less expensive to use, it will also keep your clothes brighter and in better condition.

Unplug large appliances. Even when your TV or air conditioner is turned off, it still uses power. If you’re going away for a night or more this summer, make sure to unplug your larger appliances.

Open and close your blinds throughout the day. When the sun is up during the day, keep your blinds closed to prevent heat from coming in. At the end of the day, open them back up to expel any heat in the house.

Keep your water heater at 120 degrees. Especially in the summer, when people prefer cooler showers, don’t waste energy trying to keep your water really hot.

Run your fans counterclockwise. On a hot day, the first thing most of us reach for is the chain to the ceiling fan. But did you know that there is a right and wrong way to run a fan? During the summer, your fan should be rotating counterclockwise, so that it pulls hot air up and expels cool air down.

Seal all “air leaks” or cracks in your siding. If your siding is cracked, or it doesn’t line up perfectly with your windows and doors, the cool air in your home can easily escape through these leaks.

Consider “cool roofs” for next season. While we know this isn’t as easy as pulling your drapes open and closed, metal roofs (also known as cool roofs) are excellent at reflecting sunlight, instead of absorbing it. If you’re thinking of installing a new roof within the next few years, this is definitely one to consider!

 

To learn more about your siding and metal roofing options, call us today at 203-299-0716 and request a FREE ESTIMATE. Let our roofing and siding experts help you stay cool all summer long.

When it comes to calculating the value of your home, most of us think about the number of bathrooms it has, it its square footage. While those are important factors, one of the major selling points of a house is actually its roof. When you think about it, a good roof is an invaluable part of your home. Without it, you really don’t even have a house! If you’re considering redoing your roof, here are the pros and cons of going with a metal or asphalt shingle roof.

The Pros and Cons of a Metal Roof

Pro: Longer Lifespan

When installed properly, a metal roof can outlast almost any other traditional roofing material.

Pro: Fire and Heat Resistant

One of the common myths about metal roofs is that they attract lightning. In reality, they’re less likely to attract and store heat, or catch on fire.

Pro: Very Little (If Any) Water Damage

Because of the way metal roof plates lock together, they’re highly resistant to water damage. And when your roof is free of excess water, it’s likely free of mold and mildew!

Con: They’re a Bit Pricier

When comparing upfront costs, metal roofs are more expensive than most other roofs. But, studies have shown that because they’re so durable, they cost less than a traditional roof over a lifetime.

Con: The Potential of Denting

Just like a ball can dent your car, large hail can dent a metal roof. However, this typically only happens during severe hail storms.

The Pros and Cons of Asphalt Shingles

Pro: They’re More Affordable

Asphalt shingles typically have a very low upfront cost, making them very attractive to first time homeowners.  

Pro: Easy Installation

Unlike a metal roof, which requires professional installation, people with minimal carpentry or building experience can learn how to install shingles.

Con: You Get What You Pay For

After a few years, cold temperatures, fallen tree limbs, and heavy rainfall can start to take a toll on your shingles. During hurricanes, shingles have been known to completely blow away.

Con: They’re Not As Environmentally Friendly

Asphalt shingles are a petroleum based product, meaning it takes a lot of energy to make them. 

The Takeaway

If you’re a first time homeowner and won’t be in your house for more than a few years, or live in a very mild climate, asphalt shingles are probably the way to go. However, if you’re going to be in your house for the next 30 or 40 years, or live in an area with extreme weather (especially rain) a metal roof may be a better option for you.

No matter what you’re looking for, JM Roofing & Siding can provide you with a wide variety of residential roofing services, including new roof installation, roof replacement, roof repair, and year-round roofing maintenance. To learn how our experienced roofers can help you, give us a call at 203-299-0716!