Why is My Roof Leaking?

Flooded residential house. Water dripping from roof.

We’re no stranger to how much rain April can bring to the east coast. However, it’s not always because of a downpour that homeowners run into leaking issues! A leaky roof can be a very annoying problem, and there are many reasons why your roof might be leaking. Knowing what the issue is will help you fix it, so we have some reasons as to why you’re having problems:

Installation Issues

To start with, let’s talk about problems with installation. If you’ve had any work done on your roof recently, then there is a chance that the contractor might not have installed flashing correctly. This could leave room for vulnerable areas in your roof, such as near your chimney or skylight. Be sure you check in with your contractor and that they are reliable with their service!

Rotting

After being exposed to the elements for so long, the shingles on your roof will start deteriorating and start letting water into your home – as well as an infestation of mold spores that can spread quickly throughout your house if not treated immediately! If you notice any water coming in through the ceiling or walls, it is time to take action and replace your old roof with a new one.

Faulty Shingles

Faulty shingles are often a leading cause of water leaking into your home, and after a heavy rainstorm, this could be a lot worse. The storm can weaken the bond between the roof deck and any installed roofing materials like shingles or tiles, leading to leaks in your ceiling. It’s essential to inspect your roof for any signs of damage from these storms, especially if you live in an area where hail falls frequently.

Emergency Roof Repairs in Norwalk

When it comes to ensuring your roofing lasts and is safe for your family, you need to hire the best contractor possible. 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!

5 Things To Know During Home Renovations

Thinking about starting a renovation project for your home? This can be a time-consuming process, and there are always plenty of little details to keep track of. It’s essential to take the time to do it right and plan for everything that could go wrong to avoid any costly mistakes. When planning your next renovation project, be sure to keep these five things in mind:

1. Have An Idea in Mind

It’s important to start with an exact or somewhat exact idea of what you’re looking to get out of this renovation project. It will be easier for a contractor to give you the correct estimate and tell you if it can be done on your budget. Whether you’re adding new space to your home or renovating your roof, sit down and plan out your ideas first before picking up the project. 

2. Establish a Timeline

If you are thinking about renovating your home, you should know how much time will be needed for each phase. Any renovation project can range from a few months to one year from start to finish. This includes design and construction phases and other necessary tasks like choosing materials and furnishing rooms in between these two processes. The process can take longer if there’s something wrong with the property or home’s structure.

3. Research Your Contractor

No matter what type of renovation project you’re planning, the key to getting it done is to make sure that you find a contractor who has had experience with similar projects. A contractor’s past jobs will show if they have completed a project like yours in the past and give you an idea of how much work they are likely to need for your job. 

4. Know If You Need Permits or Insurance 

Many people have found that when they start a renovation project on their home, they may not be aware of the specific permit requirements for certain jobs in their area. If you are unsure about what type of permit is required for your next project, contact your local municipality office or building department before starting work on the renovation. 

5. When is The Best Time to Start?

The best time of year to start on your renovations is right after winter. The climate is usually milder during this time, and there is less risk of being caught out by unexpected snowstorms or heavy rains. Spring is also a good choice, but it can be very wet and humid at this time, so make sure the contractors know what they’re doing. 

Roofing Renovations 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 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!

Why Is My Roof Creaking?

Are you ever just relaxing at home when suddenly your roof lets out a loud creak, loud enough to wake the neighbors? Not only is it startling, but it also could be the result of another underlying issue. It’s normal for homes to make noises here and there, especially if they’re older. However, there are a few specific reasons why your roof creaks all day and all night long. 

Nighttime Creaking

If you notice an increase in roof creaking at night, it’s most likely because of the temperature changes that occur then. Shifting humidity during any season also causes this, and it’s nothing to be too concerned about. It’s the most common during spring and summer, as your roof’s material is warming and cooling constantly, leading to constrictions in the base. 

Weather 

One of the more apparent reasons for home creaks is the weather. From strong winds to heavy rains, most wood-structured buildings will make noises. However, if you find that your roof is making sounds even when the wind is very low, you may need to call in a professional to assess your structure, considering it might be on its way out, especially since your home has weakened over the years. 

Popping Sounds

If you begin to hear louder, more prominent popping sounds, don’t panic! No matter how concerning it sounds, it’s usually just the result of your home’s interior reacting to temperature changes. Lumber and other materials will shift and budge, creating the loud noise you’re hearing. If it still concerns you and happens during moderately temperate days, it can’t hurt to call up a professional to take a look. 

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 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!

Changes Spring Will Bring to Your Home

Chamomiles with blurred house in background in spring

We can’t wait to welcome spring, but not every change it brings is a positive one. Of course, there are longer days, new blooming, and warmer weather. However, there are also some significant weather changes and temperature fluctuations that homeowners aren’t always prepared for. Here are some of the most common changes spring will be bringing to your home this year:

Poor Air Quality

People with allergies or asthma know full well that spring is the worst season for those with respiratory issues. If your home’s indoor air quality was already poor, then spring will begin to make it even worse. The pollen mixed with the dust and debris that build up in air ducts will only make things more complicated, especially if you like to open the windows on nice days!

Better Curb Appeal

On the more positive side of things, spring is the season that allows your curb appeal to prosper. With the flowers blooming and green in the trees and grass coming back, that picture-perfect home will really shine. Now all that’s left is to upgrade your siding to look brand new, and your house will look fantastic!

Rainy Days

We all know the saying “April showers bring May flowers,” but these showers can often end up being pretty intense. Your home’s roof will be facing a lot more downpours than usual, and if it’s not up for the task, you could be facing some potential leaking issues. Be sure to work with a roofing contractor to ensure your home is ready to take on heavy amounts of rain this season. 

Roofing and Siding Experts of Norwalk

When it comes to ensuring your roofing and siding lasts and is safe for your family, you need to hire the best contractor possible. 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!

Unlucky Home Emergencies

shot of green wreath outside of the house

Home emergencies can happen whenever, whether it’s due to weather conditions or aging. When you do run into these unlucky emergencies, know that you have us to come to assist. But what kind of sudden issues might arise if you don’t have the luck of the Irish on your side? Here are a few examples:

Roof Leak

Even the seemingly smallest leaks can mean major emergency roof repairs. Homeowners tend to put off fixing a leak when it is a small drip in their house, but that’s a bad idea. Anytime water is visible inside your home, you should call a professional immediately. It could lead to mold or mildew within your home or decomposition in your home’s foundation. It is difficult to remove and dangerous to your family, and you can prevent decay by contacting us as soon as you notice a leak.

Hail Damage

Winter isn’t over yet, and we could be facing some potential hail storms in the future. While most roofing materials can handle small hailstorms well, systems that produce large hailstones or even small stones and high winds can wreak havoc on your rooftop. If protrusions are caused on the material or vulnerable areas, it could open up the chance for water to leak in. 

Wind Damage

The stormy season is on its way and windy days. This can lead to some significant damage to your home. Not only can the heavy breeze cause shingles to rip off and create dangerous projectiles, but it can also cause surrounding trees to fall into your home’s siding or windows. Once these spots have been hit, it’s an open opportunity for water to get in. Professionals can come in and prevent damage to your interior walls and belongings.

Emergency Roof Repairs in Norwalk

When it comes to ensuring your roofing lasts and is safe for your family, you need to hire the best contractor possible. 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!

Ways to Start Prepping Your Home For Spring

Image of window with a flower in a pot and curtain in the room.

Spring is just around the corner, so it’s best to start preparing your home for seasonal changes. Every season brings its specific challenges, so we encourage homeowners to take advantage of the time they have before winter leaves and start getting their entire home ready, both indoors and outdoors!

Clean Windows

After months of the sun setting exceptionally early, it’s time to enjoy some time in the sunshine finally! While it might still be a little too chilly to go outdoors, you can always bring yourself close to nature by opening your windows or working by them. So, take some time to give your windows a deep clean before spring comes so that your home can bask in the beauty of the sun all day long. 

Clear Gutters and Downspouts

Now is the time to clean your gutters out and ensure your downspouts are not facing your house. Check for potential clogs or damage in these areas since they will have a lot of work to do once the rainy season begins. You do not want to deal with pooling or flooding this year in your home! 

Check For Roof Damage

Between freezing temperatures and snow showers, your roof probably has seen better days. Now is the time to get your roof checked for any possible damage, especially if you want to avoid water damage during extreme downpours. Have a professional come and take a look, as they can recommend any upgrades or repairs that it might need before spring arrives. 

And luckily, you’ve got us! 

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 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!

Best Sunroom Roofs

Modern Sunroom or conservatory extending into the garden with a featured brick wall

A sunroom is an excellent addition to any home. It’s a space that allows you to connect with the outdoors, even if the weather isn’t that forgiving on certain days. With access to constant sunlight and fresh air, a sunroom hardly ever will feel crowded. Now that spring is near, maybe it’s the perfect time to consider this addition! And here are some of the best roofing types to go with your new room:

Gable Roof

This classic design is frequently used during the construction of sunrooms. It can handle all seasons since it’s made on a 40-degree angle that allows water and snow to fall off easily. This means more ventilation, allowing a more open environment. Like most roofs, proper installation is key to adequate support against heavy wind and rain conditions. It also allows for more room for windows, an essential aspect of bringing light into this room!

Single-Slope Roof

When it comes to home additions, sheds, and porches, single-slope roofs are the most popular. But, in recent years, they’ve become more prevalent in modern home construction. Its steep design makes for an ideal choice in areas that experience a lot of rainfall and snow. There’s also plenty of room for windows and sliding doors. 

Solarium

If you want to bring the outdoors into your home, a solarium roof is perfect for you! Your sunroom will essentially be made up of windows while still protecting you and your family from harmful summer temperatures and chilly winter days. Look at the stars during the night or sit and watch a rainstorm slowly roll in. It makes for the perfect hangout area!

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 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!

Snow Vs. Skylights

When it comes to heavy snowfall, as a homeowner, it’s normal to worry about specific areas of your home and how well they will hold up against the piling up of snow. But, it’s elementary to worry about your skylight as you are watching it become covered in white. Not every snowstorm means something negative for your skylight, but there are a few issues that you should keep an eye out for.

The Fear:

Most homeowners are nervous about heavy snow amounts on their skylights because they fear the weight might cause cracking or breaking in the glass. The truth is that snow poses no direct threat like this to your skylight! However, other issues can arise from high snow accumulation in this spot.

Reality:

Water damage is a real probability for some skylights after big storms! As snow melts, it can block the usual drainage areas. When these spots puddle up, and temperatures drop again, ice dams can cause increased pressure. It’s this pressure, not directly on the glass, that causes leaking and water damage around the skylight. So, how can this be prevented?

Proper Maintenance

The best way to avoid water damage and ice dams after a big storm are to clean off snow from your skylight. While brushing this area off, it will be easy to see if any cracks or dams have formed. When these issues are spotted as soon as possible, they can be treated and fixed before preventable damage occurs. You do not need to do this after every storm. Just take precautions for ones where more than five to eight inches accumulate. 

And, you don’t need to handle this alone! Our professionals can come to inspect your skylights and roof after a big storm to ensure no weather damage has occurred. With icy and snowy conditions likely, it’s best to leave it to a professional.  

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 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!

Ways To Show Your Home Some Love

Love is in the air, and maybe now is the time to direct that love towards your home finally. When was the last time you gave it the attention it deserves? Take some time to change things up inside and outside your house, as every little touch-up and upgrade can do wonders for your home’s structure and look in the long run. 

Declutter

When was the last time you gave your home a good clean? This isn’t just including the washing, vacuuming, or dusting. To make your home truly clean, you must declutter your messiest rooms. Start by throwing away anything you know you don’t need, and then pick out items that you can give away for donation. We often have more than we need, so take your time and think the process through!

Do a Makeover

When was the last time you gave your house a lovely makeover? Consider little tricks like changing up your decorations, or maybe consider a big project such as repainting an entire room or two. We’ll be indoors for a bit longer, so there’s plenty of time to focus on creative projects that will benefit the look of your home in the long run. 

Paint Your Siding

Are you tired of the design outside your home? An easy way to fix that is by repainting your siding. Depending on the type you have and your experience, this could be a DIY project. But, we highly recommend getting in contact with a professional so that you can have that fresh, beautiful look done by the time spring hits!

Get Your Roof Restored

If you can’t remember the last time you gave your roof an upgrade, you might be due for one. Over time, our roofs become weaker. Getting this checked annually is the best way to ensure it will be safe for years to come, and getting your roof restored is a great way to make sure everything is brand new and ready to protect your home! 

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 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!

Roof Leak Repair Steps

With the snow we just got this week, and the rainy season just around the corner, homeowners could be facing water damage problems even more than usual. When leaks start appearing throughout your roof, that’s when you know it’s time to call a professional. Here are some of the steps a technician will take when repairing the leaking problem and how they will help prevent future issues. 

The Steps

  1. Find the leak: It’s essential to narrow down the exact spot with the troublesome leak in it, not just a general area. Roof leaks start from specific locations; even if there are multiple, they can usually be narrowed down. 
  2. Secure curled shingles: The reasoning behind your leak can be caused by a few different factors, such as damage caused to the caulking, water finding its way through cracks and breaks, or from your shingles curling. For all three, your shingles will have to be secured back to normal while your leaky roof is being repaired. Professionals will use a fair amount of roofing cement to keep the underside of your shingles in place. 
  3. Replace damaged shingles: Any shingles found on your roof that show signs of cracks, rotting, and breaking should be replaced as soon as possible. A technician will help get rid of old shingles and replace them with new ones that will withstand wet and hazardous weather conditions.  
  4. Fix the flashing: Sometimes leaks are caused by weak spots around your chimney or dormer. This is an easy fix! All that needs to be done is a reseal in the joints in these areas with caulk. 

Keep In Mind…

Spot repairs won’t do much to extend the life of your roof over the years. If you continuously experience leaking issues, then it might be time to consider replacing your roof altogether. A professional can come in and assess the situation, guiding you through the best decision moving forward. Either way, your safety during any season is what is most important. And with us, you won’t have to worry about leaks and water damage during any season. 

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 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!