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If you take a good look around your neighborhood, do you notice that there are a fair amount of people who secretly leave their holiday lights up way after the holiday season? Not many do, but you aren’t alone if you’re included in this scenario! It can be a grueling and challenging task putting those lights up there in the first place, so taking them down can take a long time. But, what are some of the consequences of leaving those holiday lights up there all year long?

Benefits:

The most common reason homeowners leave their lights up until next year is to avoid the hassle of set-up and take-down. It can be a difficult task getting on the ladder to set everything up. Not only that, but the process of taking everything down will be just as hard. The truth is that setting up for the holidays is never easy, so we don’t blame homeowners for opting for these simple solutions. However, we do have some warnings. 

Concerns:

There could be a few concerns to leaving your lights up all year round, including:

• Curb Appeal: sometimes, having these decorations up during off-seasons could decrease your curb appeal. During months in summer or spring, your home will seem a bit off. It depends on the type and size, but still, it can end up being an eyesore. 
• Susceptible To More Weather: Sure, our holiday lights are capable of combating heavy snowfall in winter. However, leaving them up year-long means leaving them at the mercy of weather conditions every season has to offer. Bulbs and wires could eventually break, which leaves you needing to buy an entirely new set to wrap next year. 
• Could Lose Money: It might seem like it’s a great way to save on your bills, as you won’t have to buy new materials or hire anyone to help. However, as we stated above, once any bulbs break–it’s over. The whole line of lights will be ruined! 
• Could Hurt Your Roof: Your roof is meant to protect your home all year round, but with a little extra weight and whatever materials you use to keep those lights in, you could end up harming your roof over a year. 

Roofing Experts of Norwalk

Our professionals are ready and willing to help you take down your lights at an affordable price, as well as inspect your roof for any damage caused during this winter. The JM Roofing and Siding experts are licensed and insured to serve you in Norwalk, Connecticut, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today for a free estimate!

Lighting up your home for the holidays is a great tradition to participate in. It’s an easy way to express yourself and your family through decorations and fun. However, even if you’re a professional, everyone should remember these specific safety tips when it comes to Christmas lights. Stay safe this year and keep these dos and don’ts in mind. 

Dos:

• Do remember ladder safety. Always have someone spotting you before and while you climb! Make sure the ground is clear and has not snow or ice, and be sure to wear the right protective gear, such as suitable footwear and gloves. 
• Do plan everything out first. Things can get messy and cluttered if you start putting up random decorations with no rhyme or reason. Take a second to make a simple plan of where you want to place things to make sure your home looks organized. 
• Do get some help. You could hurt yourself in more ways than one if you decide to take on all the decorating yourself. Call on a family member or friend, and you’ll be done with everything in no time! 
• Do have your roofing checked. Do you remember the last time you got your roof inspected by a professional? If your shingles or gutters are weakened or broken in some parts, they might not be able to hold up individual decorations. Do this before you plan on putting everything up.

Don’ts: 

• Don’t forget to road test your decorations. Always plug them in and make sure no bulbs are broken before putting them all up. You don’t want to waste your time! 
• Don’t overload outlets. Plugging in too many decorations into one extension cord or outlet could cause everything to overload, and a fuse will blow in your breaker panel. The outside and inside of your home will go dark before you know it.
• Don’t cause an accident. Make sure outlets and holdings are adequately secured so that no one trips on anything in the dark. 
• Don’t overestimate the strength of your roof. Besides having to keep lights and decorations hanging off of it, your roof might also have to withstand you on top as you place everything down. As we stated before, it’s essential to make sure that your shingles and materials are up to par with taking on these tasks. Don’t just get up there and start working. Be safe and have a professional do it or have a professional check-up there before you start. 

Roofing Experts of Norwalk

When it comes to ensuring your roofing 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!

When it comes time for heavy snowfall and icy nights, your roof is going to get a lot thrown at it. While our roofs are constructed in a way to protect us even during the harsh winter, some parts end up being more vulnerable than others. And it’s these sections that are not able to hold against that snowstorm. Here are the areas of your roof that you should keep an eye out for when you know you’ve got a big storm heading your way:

The Roof Edge

This area often takes the brunt of strong winds during any storm. Strong gusts can even end up taking apart shingles in this area if it has not been installed properly or inspected recently. There should be no gap between the first row of shingles and the decking, so call a professional if you notice that since you might need an upgrade. 

The Gutter System 

Your gutters take a lot more than they can handle most of the time. From rain to water runoff from melted snow, they are always working to keep your roof and home from flooding. However, they can easily be cluttered with debris. When this happens, it’s not long after that water begins to flood over the side of your home and cause water damage. Just make sure you occasionally clean out your gutters during every season. 

One Lower Side

For some roofs, depending on how your home was constructed, one side leans more downwards than the other. This means that after a storm, everything will slide down to that specific side automatically. In cases of heavy snowfall, the snow may melt and cause the rest to be stuck to this one side. This uneven distribution of weight will cause the area to weaken over time, eventually breaking down sooner than the stronger side. If you notice this sort of slant in your roofing, you can have a professional come in and strengthen the vulnerable spots. 

Roofing Experts of Norwalk

When it comes to ensuring your roofing 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!

As winter rolls around, homeowners should begin to prepare their homes for the extreme weather changes it brings. Every home needs a little extra care when it comes to snowy and icy conditions. And when it comes to your siding, it is important to take preventative measures in order to avoid any future damage since freezing temperatures can cause costly issues. Here are some of the best siding care tips for wintertime.  

Vinyl Siding:

Cleaning: When ice and snow sits for a long period of time on your siding, it could lead to dirt and debris attaching to the material. It can help mold grow once the water melts off and slowly cause deterioration. That is why it’s recommended you clean your siding a few times this winter! You can either use a power washer or use a bristle brush and a solution of water and bleach. It would be the same process as cleaning your siding in the warmer months. 

Do not install in freezing temperatures: Your vinyl siding should be installed during a more mild season so that you don’t have any issues with material expansion or contractions. 

Wood Siding:

Too much water is bad news: The worst thing for your wood siding is an excessive amount of water. After snowy or icy storms, be sure to go out and check the material for signs of rotting or mold. You’ll want these issues handled as soon as possible in order to maintain the structure of your home. A professional can help make sure it hasn’t spread to other parts of your house as well. 

Remember fire safety: Wood is more flammable than other siding materials, so if you’re planning on cuddling up next to a winter bonfire, make sure it’s far enough away from your house to avoid any fire hazards. 

Fiber Cement Siding:

Easy maintenance: Although fiber cement siding is known to be more durable during the winter months, it will still require some regular maintenance in order to keep it looking brand new. Ice can chip away at the paint, so it’s best to give your siding some extra coats of color in areas you notice problems. 

Caulking is important: You’ll want to make sure the caulking done between your windows and doors is secure, as this will help make sure your heating stays inside and the cold stays out. If it’s all in place, it will help lower the cost of your energy bill overtime as well. 

Siding Experts of 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!

It’s a bit of a guessing game when it comes to what kind of decorations you should have up near the end of November and early December. Most people, after Halloween is over, move right on to Christmas and December holidays as if the ones in between don’t exist. So, how you decorate has all to do with which celebration you wish to honor more! We have a little guide for this exact situation. 

When To Leave Up Fall Decorations:

• If you are planning on having a small gathering at your house for Thanksgiving, consider leaving up those pumpkins and colorful leaves. You’ll need the ambiance for the celebration. 
• If you don’t like skipping holidays, then keep up your fall decor until the season ends. Winter doesn’t come until December 21st. 
• If you can’t stand when Christmas is celebrated too early. We get you, sometimes even the music can get way too repetitive if you’re forced to listen to it for two months instead of just one. 
• If you don’t mind a mix. You can have pinecones and acorns out along with those winery lights and snowy decorations. It’s your home, make it look how you like! 

When To Switch To Winter Decorations:

• If you’re all about December holidays. You’d rather just skip the rest of November all together and move right to the holly jolly singing and ornaments. 
• If fall wasn’t your favorite season in the first place. Little things such as snowflakes and snowmen can start filling up your home as early as you would like if winter is much more your style. 
• If you don’t have many plans for Thanksgiving. No one will really see your home, so who cares if you get a head start on those winter celebrations? 
• If you don’t mind a mix. As we stated earlier, pinecones and other outdoor decor can be mixed together to create the perfect autumn/winter design for your home. 

And remember safety if you are putting any of these decorations on your roof or siding! 

Roofing & Siding Experts of Norwalk

When it comes to ensuring your siding and roofing 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!

The changing of the seasons is almost upon us again, and this time we’re going from chilly to freezing weather. The transition to winter isn’t always an easy one, so make sure you plan ahead in order to protect your home. Here are some of our top tips to transition your home from fall to winter this year:

Change Of Decor

It’s about that time to switch from your fall to winter decor. It doesn’t necessarily mean they need to be holiday centered, just that autumn decorations are going to become outdated very soon. Say goodbye to those pumpkins and hello to snowflakes. It’s the perfect way to bring that winter feel into your home.

Get Your Insulation Checked 

The best way to keep your home warm is by making sure your insulation is installed properly and ready for the next season. Without a checkup, there’s a chance that your heating may escape through your attic, or that the cold will enter through there. Make sure to get this done before winter comes in full swing.

Update Your Roofing

If it’s been a long time since you last got your roof updated or checked on, it’s a good idea to get this done now before big snow storms come rolling in. If your home has broken or damaged shingles and roofing, you could face water damage after snow or hail hits. A lot more damage can be done than you realize, so don’t waste any time. 

Roof Repairs and Renovations In Norwalk CT

When it comes to ensuring your roofing lasts and is ready to endure extreme weather conditions, 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!

Winter might seem like a far away thought, but it’s coming around faster than you may realize. With only a few months to go, it’s time to start keeping in mind safety for your home during strong winter weather. A part of that includes making sure your roofing is prepared to take on heavy amounts of snow! But, what kind of roofing material is your best choice to combat snowstorms? We have your answers:

Metal Roofing

Probably one of the most durable kinds of roofing, metal roofing is your best bet for year round protection. It can withstand many kinds of weather, especially snow. Any home with a metal roofing material over its head can sleep safe knowing they will run into little to no issues at all this winter! 

Slate Roofing

Slate roofing is known for its nice outward appearance and strong durability. It’s been the average homeowner’s favorite for quite some time now. So, it only makes sense that it is a great material to have this winter. It fairs well in extreme temperatures, and can withstand conditions such as wind or hail. This sturdy roof type is a great option for homeowners this year. 

Asphalt Roofing

This type of roofing material is not only strong, but affordable as well. They are waterproof and made for spring and winter weather. You can have these installed, knowing your home will be guarded this winter, and it won’t leave a giant dent in your wallet after investing in it. It’s a quick and easy way to change up your home for the better. 

Cement Tiles

Quite different from all the other roofing options, cement tiles act as a barrier as it’s an erosion-resistant material type. This means it can take on heavy amounts of snow for days or even weeks in a row without damage. Cracks and leaks are rare with this kind of roofing, but it comes in at a high price. 

We are here for all your roofing needs.

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. Contact us today for a free estimate!

Halloween is coming up fast, so if you haven’t put your decorations up yet you should get started soon! Depending on how all out you want to go this year, you may have many spooky items hanging around. But for more higher up areas, make sure you are setting up everything safely. Here is our official safe guide to putting up Halloween decorations. 

Never Climb A Ladder Alone

When it comes to using ladders, having a buddy at the bottom to hold it steady for you is vital for your safety! It also comes in handy to have someone with you just in case of an emergency. Not to mention, as things start to cool down, the ground could be icy or slippery due to fallen leaves. Make sure you’ve got your ladder buddy with you before you start climbing. 

Do Not Drill Into Your Home 

Even though it looks like a great spot to put that ghouly sign, if you need to drill into your siding in order for it to work– then it doesn’t work. You should avoid anything that might damage your siding or roofing. This will cause unnecessary damage to your home and increase your vulnerability during the winter.

Be Careful With Electronics 

Some decorations light up, blow up, and make creepy noises when anyone comes near. All of these are fun to add to your home, but always take electric safety precautions when setting up. If you need extension cords, remember not to plug them into each other and make sure they are approved for outdoor use. Also keep in mind which parts of the decoration are waterproof and which are not. 

Keep A Clear Path

Sure, it’s exciting to decorate your entire lawn and home. But, it could become too overrun with no clear path to your home if you’re not careful. Trick or treaters could trip, or you could forget where you placed things and step on them accidentally at night. It’s important to set up your Halloween decor neatly and clearly, which makes your lawn all the more safe!

Roofing & Siding Experts of Norwalk

When it comes to ensuring your siding and roofing 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!

There’s a lot more that could be hiding behind your siding than you realize! This is the case for any season, as the outdoors play a part in the health of your home’s siding. Don’t ignore the signs and make sure you’re aware of what issues can occur. Here are some of the real truths that could be currently hiding behind your siding, and what you can do about them. 

Mold 

What many homeowners don’t realize is that water damage can happen during any season. Whether it’s due to the heavy rains of spring or the clogged gutters of fall, if any part of your siding is damaged or broken, water can get in. And that is when mold forms, as it thrives in high moisture spots. If your siding has been overtaken by mold and water damage, you’ll need to call a professional to get it replaced. 

Carpenter Bugs

If you notice your siding has been eaten and picked at, you might have an infestation happening. Carpenter ants, termites, and bees love to create issues for homeowners. Obvious signs include holes throughout your walls, deterioration, or signs of a nest. If ignored, they will essentially take apart your home from the inside out. Get an exterminator and siding professional over to your house as soon as possible! 

Dry Rot

What is dry rot? Well, it’s actually the opposite of its name. This occurs when the wood in your siding is too wet, causing rotting. When this happens, the main cause is usually that your insulation has been installed poorly and isn’t doing its job properly. This kind of water damage rots out the inside of your house fully, weakening its structural integrity and possibly creating a dangerous situation for your home and family. 

Siding Experts of 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!