3 Reasons Your Chimney Is Leaking

why is your chimney leaking

Chimneys can leak for a variety of reasons. And once it starts leaking, it can lead to a multitude of other problems. Knowing the root cause of the issue can help you make a better repair decision, so let’s start with the most common causes.

3 Reasons Your Chimney Is Leaking

Reason #1: Flashing Issue

One of the most common repairs with chimneys is from flashing issues. The flashing is the material, usually aluminum, that surrounds the part of the chimney from your rooftop. This metal part of the chimney is meant to form a waterproof seal between your roof and chimney. This is susceptible to leaking because flashing is difficult to install and flashing is also prone to rust, which can cause a leak over time.

Reason #2: Deteriorating Mortar

The mortar is what cements the masonry and holds it together — and it doesn’t last longer than 25 years (meanwhile the stones can last for centuries). When the mortar begins to deteriorate, moisture can pour into the chimney structure. And if the mortar isn’t replaced, the chimney can lean or collapse.

Reason #3: No Chimney Cap

This part is not necessarily required when a chimney is installed, however, its a very important feature. The chimney cap prevents rain from pouring into your chimney and causing various moisture issues.

Just these three reasons alone are three reasons why you should schedule annual chimney and roof inspection. Professionals can help you prevent any issues and find any repairs before they become bigger issues.

FREE Estimates On All New Roof Installations. Contact JM Roofing Today!

4 Projects To Complete This Summer

Just as we thought we might never see the summer, it’s mid-June, and we’re finally experiencing some warmer weather. All of us may be frantically scheduling our weekend vacations and backyard parties, but this warmer weather is also great for some home projects as well!

roof inspection

Here are four roofing projects you can add to your list…

Roof inspection and repair.

Now is the time to check out your roof to ensure everything is up to par. Other seasons bring on snow, hail, or rain, which is not an ideal condition for inspection. Spring and summer are the best time to call a professional roofing contractor to check everything out.

Clean and remove debris and pests.

If you have the proper equipment and feel safe enough, check out your roof for any moss or pests. Moss grows on dark, wet roofs and insects are known to make nests in our roofs and gutters rooting the wood and eaves.

If you notice any rot or discolored shingles, call a professional!

Check out your gutters.

Gutters are very important. They help remove water and debris from your roof and clear it away from your home’s foundation. If your drains are blocked, cracked, or broken, it can cause serious issues.

Now we know fall is usually the time homeowners check out their gutter system, but chances are the springtime left some debris in your gutters, so it doesn’t hurt to check it out quickly in the summer also.

As a local roofing contractor with 15 years of experience, we’ve made a name for ourselves by providing the highest standard of installation and repair. Homeowners can and should conduct regular examinations of their rooftop, and if they notice any issues, they should call JM Roofing & Siding!

Fiber Cement Siding vs. Wood Siding: Review and Comparison

Adding siding to your home is one of the most cost-effective improvements you can make. Plus, it immediately increases your curb appeal, which makes pulling into your driveway a lot nicer.

worker installing wood siding

But, when it comes to choosing what kind of siding to buy, how do you decide? In this blog, we’ll discuss the difference between wood and fiber cement siding and all the pros and cons they both have to offer.

Wood Siding

Wood siding is a classic design choice with a variety of different materials including, cypress, pine, pine, spruce, and cedar. Thanks to these options, homeowners can make their home look clean and traditional or go the more modern route.

Pros and Cons:

  • Pro: Wood siding is durable and can last for decades with proper care.
  • Pro: You can customize wood siding since its such a pliable material.
  • Con: Wood siding requires constant maintenance, including paint or preservative treatments.
  • Con: While some options can be inexpensive, you can easily cross the line with installation and maintenance costs.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding is a complex material made up of wood fiber, sand, clay, and cement. And although you may picture a more grey, modern look — fiber cement siding can take on a variety of appearances, including wood, making it a great choice for any home renovation.

Pros and Cons:

  • Pro: Fiber cement siding is resistant to many things including insects, fungus, and UV damage (making maintenance super easy!).
  • Pro: It can last for years to come! It’s also resistant to fire, making it more durable than any other material (and eco-friendly).
  • Con: Installing fiber cement siding isn’t something you can do on your own — you need to hire a professional, and the cost can rise.
  • Con: The upfront cost of this material tends to turn homeowners away, however, it has low maintenance costs overall, which can help offset this price.

At JM Roofing and Siding, the siding we install will protect your home, save energy, improve the appearance and enhance the value of your property. We replace worn out or damaged exteriors. We install naturally durable cedar and fiber cement, one of the highest quality materials with the longest warranty.

Call us today for a FREE estimate for any siding service!

What To Consider When Evaluating a Porch Roof

When you think about your dream home, do you picture a wrap around porch? We know we would love one! It’s the perfect place to relax, no matter the weather thanks to the roofing system. But did you know that a porch roof has its own set of issues and upkeep aside from the rest of your home’s roof?

porch furniture

Warning Signs To Look Out For

Do you notice inadequate flashing?

Porches need flashing where it meets the side of your home. If there isn’t any flashing, water can get beneath the shingles and cause mold, rot, and deterioration.

Are the gutters in good shape?

Like the rest of your roof, the gutters around your porch need to be cleared of any leaves or debris. And if the gutters are cracked, it’s going to affect the rest of the porch next time it rains.

How sturdy are the beams?

How old are your porches beams? Over time, beams can become weak due to various weather conditions like rain and snow, causing them to rot. Once it begins to disintegrate, it can transfer to the rest of the porch.

This is a serious safety issue and should be addressed by a professional immediately.

Emergency Roof Repair

Emergency roof repair can help prevent small damages from becoming catastrophes. JM Roofing & Siding, a residential roofing company, can provide same day service for leaks and storm damage.

Call us today for more information!

Comparing Different Types of Roofing Material

Shopping for a new roof can be stressful and confusing (to say the least). We’ll try to clear up some of the questions you may have to make the process a little bit easier.

tile roofing of  home

What Are The Different Types Of Roofing Material?

Shingles

Shingles are the most popular roofing material on the market and we can think of two reasons right off the bat. One, they are the least expensive with a decent lifespan (20 to 25 years) and two, they are very durable (they have layers of fiberglass, unlike traditional shingles).

Metal

Aluminum or steel roofs are the two materials you’ll find when shopping for a metal roof. Aluminum is slightly more expensive than steel but is sometimes a better choice due to their resistance against corrosion. Metal roofing is up and coming as the most popular option because they are lightweight, energy-efficient, durable, and weather-resistant (they also can last for more than 50 years!).

To find out more about metal roofing: Metal Roofing Installation in Fairfield County, CT.

Wood

Cedar shakes or shingles give a beautiful appearance and is also very durable, making it the most popular wood option. However, they require much more maintenance compared to other roofing materials, which turns some homeowners away.

Tile

Concrete or clay tile roofs are the most popular in the southern and western states in America, but cooler climate homes can have them as well! Tile roofs are very durable and weather resistant, and they provide a curb appeal unlike any other.

Are you looking to revamp your home’s roof? JM Roofing & Siding will provide you with a wide variety of residential roofing services, including new roof installation, roof replacement, roof repair, and general roofing service.

Call us today for a FREE estimate on all new roof installations!

Do Clogged Gutters Affect a Home’s Condition?

After the fall and winter seasons, the gutters of some homes are chock-full of debris. Leaves, pebbles, mud, and other hazards are trapped in those gutters, and the water that enters into the troughs has no place to go. Although this is a common problem, the question remains as to how clogged gutters affect the condition of your home. However, we have the answer you are looking for!

Clogs Can Deal Damage to Roofing

Gutters are known for hanging off the side of your home, collecting rainwater and transferring it to a predetermined outlet. While gutters ensure your home doesn’t develop a moat, clogged drains can impact the health of your roof. When gutters become clogged, they collect rain water that has no place to go. When the clog is left alone, rain water will begin to swell and pour over the side of the gutters. While this is bad for your property, the reality is that roofs aren’t mean to hold clogged gutters for weeks on end. Clogged gutters are heavy from the added weight of the rain water, and when the clog isn’t released, it may end in gutters getting ripped away from your house, taking a piece of the roof with it. Therefore, ensuring that your channels are clean of debris is one of the best ways to protect the health of your roof.

Clogs Can Deal Damage to Siding

As previously mentioned, clogged gutters will eventually overflow with trapped water.

This water will run down your siding and can cause some issues like:

  • Rot
  • Mold
  • Wear and tear
  • Chips in the paint

As you can see, clogged gutters can severely impact the health of your home. If you have plugged drains, JM Roofing & Siding can help. Contact us for a free estimate for debris removal!

Which Project Is More Important: Roofing or Siding?

Home renovation projects are never easy because they are usually extra-curricular, and there seems to be an infinite number of developments that people can take on. From repainting a room, ordering new counters, putting in new carpet, and thousands of other repairs, choosing between a roof repair and a siding repair may be seemingly impossible. However, after reading this blog, you will have a better grasp of which home improvement project is the superior choice for you.

Roofing: the Best Project for Necessary Repairs

Although old and worn siding poses a threat to your home, the reality is that a broken-down roof is more threatening. When a roof has holes and its integrity is compromised, the health of your whole home is at risk. If a roof caves in, it could do tens of thousands of dollars of damage to a house, not to mention that it could injure you or your family. Additionally, a patchy roof can let in leaks or other weather-related problems which can devastate your home’s interior structure. Animals will use the holes in your roof to infiltrate your home and your dwelling place may be overrun by wildlife as result. All of these issues are more serious than a breach in the integrity of your siding, but it is important to note that it is entirely dependent on extensiveness of the damage done to your siding. However, as a rule of thumb, a problem with your roof is more serious.

Siding: the Best Project for Style

While roof repairs are more serious than siding issues, the style of your siding is massively more important than the style of your roof. If you are renovating your home in order to sell it on the market, a siding renovation can work wonders in regards to your home’s curbside appeal and market value. The siding is often the “face” of the home, and damaged or old siding may be an unappealing blemish for potential buyers. Without a doubt, if you are looking to upgrade your home’s style it is typically better to renovate your siding.

Regardless of the home project you choose, JM Roofing & Siding is here to help! We have extensive knowledge of roofing repairs and siding styles that can help you make the right renovations to boost your home’s value and protection. If you have any questions regarding our prices or projects, contact us now!

Is Home Siding Expensive?

While your roof defends your home from rain, snow, and shine, your home’s siding is also an essential part of your home’s security from the elements. Additionally, siding is the first thing that people see when they look at your home, which means you want your siding to look polished and neat. However, deciding on a siding material can be difficult due to pricing.

Siding Types & Prices

  • Vinyl: Costs $2 to $7 per square foot—For a two-story house, the total could be anywhere from $6,000-$13,000
  • Wood (Clapboard): Costs $5 to $8 per square foot—For a two-story house, the total could be anywhere from $14,000-$23,000 Note: Wood siding upkeep is expensive, expect to pay another $2,000 to $5,000 every five years to keep it looking new!
  • Wood (Shingle): Costs $6 to $9 per square foot—For a two-story house, the total could be anywhere from $16,800-$25,200 Note: Wood siding upkeep is expensive, expect to pay another $2,000 to $5,000 every five years to keep it looking new!
  • Fiber Cement: Costs $5 to $9 per square foot—For a two-story home, the total could be anywhere from $14,000-$25,200
  • Stucco: Costs $6 to $9 per square foot—For a two-story home, the total could be anywhere from $16,800 to $25,200
  • Engineered Wood Siding: Costs $3 to $5 per square foot— For a two-story home, the total could be anywhere from $7,000 to $12,000
  • Synthetic Stone: $12 to $25 per square foot—For a two-story home, the total could be anywhere from $33,600 to $70,000

As you can see, the price of siding is dramatically different depending on the look you are trying to achieve! Any of these options are good, but if you have any questions, contact JM Roofing & Siding for answers!

How a Missing Tile Affects Home Defense

You have heard the proverb, “a chain is only as strong as its weakest link.” This proverb, while typically used in reference to a group of people working together or for the strength of a logical argument, takes on a whole other meaning when referencing a roof. Many people believe one missing roof tile is not a big deal, but the reality of a missing tile or shingle is serious.

One Missing Tile Can Make the Rest Obsolete

Imagine a multi-faceted defense system where all of its parts must function together to successfully guard a precious treasure. If one of the security measures of the system breaks, the whole system is obsolete, and the treasure is put at risk. In regards to your house, the roof is the defense system, and the treasure is your home. If a single tile is out of place, guess what you will have in your home the next time it storms on your roof—rain in its interior. What can rain in the interior of your home do? Force repair costs worth thousands of dollars as a result of moldy wood and other parts of your home. Let’s go through a timeline of possible outcomes of an unpatched roof:

  1. Your roof has a missing tile.
  2. A storm hits your house and dumps rain onto your home.
  3. Typically, your home is impervious to rain, but because of the missing tile, rain leaks into your house.
  4. This leak causes your home’s interior to become soaked with rain.
  5. As the interior of your home sees no sunlight, and is in a cool and damp place, mold and rot festers as a result of the rain.
  6. This rot impacts the integrity of your home’s structure.
  7. You will have to replace the structure of the interior of your home to ensure it doesn’t collapse on itself from the rot.
  8. You will be out tens of thousands of dollars all because of one missing tile.

Clearly this process doesn’t happen overnight, but the reality is that it can happen in a couple of months depending on the season and your home’s local. Don’t make a mistake you will regret, get your tile fixed by JM Roofing & Siding. We will ensure that your home’s defense can continue doing its job so you and your family can stay safe.

Staying Safe While on Your Roof

No matter how protective your roof is, at some point in time you will need to perform routine maintenance. Although roof maintenance may seem like an easy job, thousands of Americans are injured in roof-related accidents every year. For this reason we have complied a number of safety tips that will help you stay safe while on top of your roof.

Never Work in Extreme Weather Conditions

Although summer days may seem like a good time to work on your roof, shingles dry out and become brittle when exposed to the sun for hours on-end. On the other hand, during cold seasons, your shingles may become brittle due to freezing temperatures. Therefore, the best time to work on your roof is during weeks where mild temperatures are the norm.

Wear Soft-Soled Footwear for Traction

Although your steel-toed boots are great for construction work, the typically hard-soled bottoms may cause you to fall off your roof. While hard-soled bottoms can help your feet during other projects, it is better to pass on these shoes while working up in the air. In fact, experts suggest that you use soft-soled footwear for any roofing project you engage in. Traction is better than support for roofing projects, so make sure you leave your hard-soles in the closet.

 Always Have Three Points of Contact While on a Ladder

When climbing a ladder, best practice dictates that you should always have three points of contact on the ladder at all times. Three points of contact means having a total of two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand on the ladder. If a job requires that you use both of your hands while on a ladder, it may be time to think of a safer solution. Unfortunately, tens of thousands of workers are injured while using ladders every year, but if you follow this rule, the chances of you joining their ranks is significantly lowered.

Hopefully these tips help you protect yourself against injury while maintaining and cleaning your roof. Stay safe out there!