siding Archives - JM Roofing & Siding

August 15, 2022September 14, 2022

Are There Termites In My Siding?

Checking wood damage in siding due to termites

Signs of Termites in Your Siding

Are you hearing clicking noises inside your home, but there’s no sight of any bugs? You may have some unwanted guests knocking on your door (or, in worse cases, breaking your door down). No need to worry because our siding professionals are here to help determine if you have a termite infestation.

What are Termites?

Termites are known as one of the most destructive pests. They may be referred to as “white ants.” They are an insect that loves dead plant matter such as decayed wood. According to the National Pest Management Association, they cause an estimated $5 billion in damages to structures annually.

Three main types of termites are seen in homes:

Subterranean termites – found underground in nests
Damp wood termites – thrive in extreme moisture conditions
Dry wood termites – located in coastal areas

How do I Know if I Have Termites?

Homeowners often struggle to monitor termite activity until it is too late. However, it won’t be you because you will be fully prepared to catch the evidence. An obvious sign of termites are broken doors or windows, usually when it is time to replace your house’s foundation. Additionally, look around to see if there are wings scattered on window sills, foundation walls, or your patio. Last but not least, make sure you locate any mud tubes, as that is where termites hide for protection.

How Can I Prevent Termites?

Unfortunately, homeowner insurance does not cover termite infestation, so you should take preventative measures to avoid a pricey exterminator and house siding replacement bill. Some ways to keep these pesky insects away from your equity are controlling moisture, storing wooden materials in a separate location, and hiring termite monitoring services.

Roofing and Siding Professionals of Norwalk

Are you in need of a siding replacement because of a termite infestation? JM Roofing and Siding provides exceptional residential roofing and siding services in Norwalk, CT. We take pride in our work and strive for customer service satisfaction.
Contact us today at 203-299-0716 or fill out a form for a free estimate.

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!

April 26, 2022April 26, 2022

Is Mold on Siding Dangerous?

Mold is a problem that plagues many homeowners. The weather, especially with all this rain and moisture, makes it almost inevitable that mold will grow on your home’s exterior. It may not seem like it’s that big of a deal to have some mold on your house, but there are health risks associated with this issue. Here’s what you need to look out for, why mold occurs here, and how to prevent it from happening in the future.

How to Spot Mold

Mold can be found anywhere there are high levels of moisture or humidity. Depending on the color of your siding, it may be very obvious or hard to spot. If you are unsure whether or not you have mold growing on your siding, check for any discoloration of the surface or areas where there is evidence of water damage, like stains from leaks.

Why Mold Forms

As rain continues to fall, many homeowners see their humble abodes develop water stains or mold on the exterior of their house. This is because moisture gets trapped in cracks in the walls, windowsills, roofs, and other areas around your home where air doesn’t circulate well. The lack of circulation makes it the perfect place for mold spores to grow and spread. Mold loves warm, damp surfaces, and, unfortunately, your house’s siding might just become the ideal spot.

Dangers of Mold

Mold on siding is not always dangerous, but it can be if the mold is toxic. Toxic mold causes respiratory problems and other illnesses in humans. However, non-toxic mold can grow just as easily as its unhealthy counterpart and cause pretty ugly stains that you may have to clean up before you paint or sell your home.

If you are worried about having any type of mold on your siding, contact a professional for an inspection and cleaning recommendation.

Contact Us For New Siding Installations in Norwalk

March 22, 2022March 22, 2022

Which Siding Lasts the Longest?

Siding is a material used to protect your house from the outside elements. You want to make sure that you are choosing the right type of siding for your home, as it is important to find one that lasts a long time and offers great protection.

There are many different types of sidings on the market today, so finding one may seem like an overwhelming task. You need to consider some things when deciding which type of siding would be best for you and your family!

Wood Siding

Wood is a more natural option, with many varieties such as cedar or pine. When installed and maintained properly, natural wood makes an attractive and durable siding application. Most types have a natural resistance to rotting and pests. And, when installed correctly, wood siding has weather-tight joints and seams. The lifespan of most wood siding is between 15 to 40 years!

The main downfall of this material is that it is vulnerable to warping due to external factors. As long as it’s properly installed and well maintained, this might not be too big an issue for homeowners.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl has been around longer than any other type of siding and comes in a wide array of colors, lending a hand in creating the house of your dreams. Vinyl siding is known to last between 20 to 40 years, is resistant to bugs and mold, and remains relatively maintenance-free.

The biggest downfall is that vinyl siding is known to fade and lose its color due to outdoor factors such as heavy rain or long, sunny days. You’ll need a professional to repaint!

Fiber Cement Siding

Manufactured from sand, cement, and cellulose fibers, it’s one of the toughest materials you can find for your home’s exterior. Fiber cement siding provides numerous advantages over less durable products. It’s fireproof, impact-resistant, pet resistant, and often comes with safety warranties. Due to last 30 years or longer, fiber cement siding is often considered the most durable material for your home’s siding!

Contact Us For New Siding Installations in Norwalk

February 16, 2022February 17, 2022

The Importance of Siding on Your Home

A home’s siding is one of the most important features that can make or break a humble abode. Not only does it protect your house from the elements, but it also affects how much cold air or heat gets inside. To understand why you need to maintain your siding, you first have to know what it does for your home. Here at JM Roofing and Siding, we have a full breakdown of just how important your siding is on your house.

Protection From Outdoors

Siding is the outermost layer of your home. It protects you from weather, water, and other outside forces that can cause damage to your house. Siding will keep your home safe from all sorts of hazards such as mold, pests, mildew, moisture, and rot. If there are any water or air leaks in the building frame underneath the exterior walls, this could lead to an unsafe environment for you and anyone else who lives in your home.

Helpful Insulation

One of the most important parts about your siding is that it helps to insulate your home for year-round comfort. In the winter, the right insulation paired with your siding will keep the heat in your home. Vice versa for summertime and your home’s cool air! Your home will be energy-efficient, and you will save money.

Curb Appeal

In addition to all the benefits stated above, various colors are available when choosing your siding! So that you can choose one that fits with the style of your home and match other exterior finishes such as roofing materials, trim work, doors, and windows. The best way to increase your curb appeal is to keep up with maintenance so that the exterior of your home is always up to par.

Contact Us For New Siding Installations in Norwalk

February 15, 2022February 15, 2022

How The Right Siding Can Help Your Save Energy

There are many ways to make your home more energy-efficient, but you may not know that your siding can play a part in how much energy your home uses. Siding provides an excellent opportunity to help insulate your home and save money. The type of siding you have will affect how well insulated and sealed your home is from the outside world.

This means that whatever material you choose for your exterior will play a major role in determining just how much energy is being lost during the winter months or on hot summer days. And we have a further in-depth guide to the right siding for you and how it can help save you money and energy.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl has been used for decades because it is easy to install, affordable, and, most importantly, excellent protection from the elements. Vinyl siding is more energy-efficient than other types of siding because it requires less maintenance and does not require painting.

Wood Siding

When installed and maintained properly, natural wood makes an attractive and durable siding application. Cedar siding is a top choice due to its natural resistance to rotting and pests. Its lovely appearance can be allowed to age to an earthy silvery-gray or treated, stained or painted to ensure years of worry-free service. It is generally installed with weather-tight joints and seams.

Cedar wood is environmentally friendly since it’s biodegradable, and it’s a great insulator to keep the heat in during the winter and cool air in during the summer.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding provides numerous advantages over less durable products. Manufactured from sand, cement, and cellulose fibers, it’s one of the toughest materials you can find for your home’s exterior. With its ability to withstand various weather conditions, the outdoors will stay out of your home’s indoors. With this high-quality material and benefits, you’ll be saving energy in no time!

Contact Us For New Siding Installations in Norwalk

January 24, 2022January 26, 2022

When Should I Upgrade My Siding?

When you think of your home, how long have you lived there? How old is your home’s siding? When was the last time you invested in some upgrades? All these questions and more can often end up in the back of your mind, but taking care of your house requires answering them. Especially when it comes to your siding, which can be subject to wear and tear after years of aging and exterior weather conditions.

So, the JM Roofing and Siding team is here to answer one of the most important questions homeowners have: when should you upgrade your siding?

When You Notice Fading

When the color of your current vinyl or aluminum is faded, cracked, peeling, or has been scratched by a tree branch, that’s how you’ll know it’s time for an upgrade. Adding siding to your house is one of the most cost-effective improvements you can make. A new installation immediately increases the curb appeal of your home now that all that fading is gone.

If You Experience Leaks

If you have leaks in your walls caused by wind or weather conditions, then your siding is not up for the task of protecting your home. It’s essential that if you notice water coming into your home from your cracked or peeling walls that it’s taken care of immediately. Not only can this lead to water damage, but it could also cause mold to fester. Protecting your house from the elements reduces the time and money you’ll spend on maintenance due to the effects of harsh weather, so keep an eye out for this sign of a needed replacement.

When Your Energy Bill Increases

One of the biggest reasons you should upgrade your siding is that it will save you money in the long run. You’ll save money on energy bills by blocking out drafts and heat from escaping — especially if it’s been years since your siding last had a proper update and insulation check.

After Many Years

A common rule of thumb is that if properly installed and well maintained, most siding will last anywhere from 20 to 40 years. However, this lifespan can be shortened if any of the issues mentioned above arise. Also, other factors such as weather, personal preference, and more can affect when an upgrade is due.

In the long run, our JM Siding installation technicians will produce a solid and attractive new covering for your house. We sheathe your home in a superior finish to other materials in appearance, value, weather resistance, and longevity.

Contact Us For New Siding Installations in Norwalk

January 7, 2022January 7, 2022

New Year’s Home Resolutions For 2022

New Year’s resolutions are a good way to start the new year on the right foot. And if you’re looking for a fresh beginning, sometimes there’s no better way to start than with your home! So, if you’re thinking about ways to keep your home in tip-top shape this year, then here are some resolutions that might be worth considering.

Clean Out Your Closets

You may not have noticed it yet, but there’s a lot of junk hiding in your closet! Take this opportunity to clean out those old clothes and get rid of anything that doesn’t fit, or you haven’t worn in a while. Not only that, but your closets can become areas for random storage, so now is the perfect time to go through all the items you have stuffed in there and see what you can get rid of or donate.

Clean Your Gutters Often

We know how easy it is to skip this chore, considering it can be hard to go out of your way to go up there and clean up. But, we encourage you to clean your gutters regularly! You’ll be less likely to have the misfortune of an overflowing gutter during the snowy or rainy season.

Change Your Furnace Filter Monthly

It’s recommended that you change your furnace filter once every three months or at least four times per year. It will help with air quality and protect against expensive mishaps throughout the year. For better protection and more energy efficiency, it’s the resolution to remember.

Finally, Upgrade Your Roofing and Siding

If it’s been years since you last gave your roofing or siding the upgrade it deserves, then this year is the perfect time to call up the professionals here at JM Roofing and Siding. As your local roofing and siding company, we provide the services you need to keep a highly functioning roof and home exterior surrounding you. We do everything from repair and replacement to installing a new surface.

Contact Us Today For Roofing and Siding Services In Norwalk, CT

The best way to up your curb appeal this season is by investing in comprehensive roofing and siding services. 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!

December 29, 2021December 30, 2021

Safety Tips For Taking Down Holiday Decorations

The holidays have come and gone, and just like that, all your decorations are suddenly outdated. Some homeowners leave up their lights into the new year, but the sooner you take everything down, the fewer chores you’ll have in January. And while you’re taking down your decorations, it’s essential to always keep safety in mind. Here are some tips to follow to ensure a safe and healthy start to your new year.

Do Not Climb Ladders Alone

A ladder will be an essential part of the process when you need to climb up to reach high up lights and décor. However, for your safety, you should never climb a ladder alone. During winter, the ground could be feeble due to ice or snow. Not only that, the colder weather could make movement more difficult, so having a climbing buddy will be the best way to ensure safety while using a ladder.

Wear The Appropriate Gear

Ensure you wear gloves and sturdy footwear while taking down your outdoor holiday decorations. This way, you’ll be protected from both the weather and any dangerous conditions caused by the tools you use.

Electrical Safety

It would be best to always keep electrical safety in mind with any light up and electrical equipment. When taking them down, always unplug your lights and inflatables before removing them from the socket. If you have any cords, make sure they are completely unplugged before handling them or putting them away. Be aware of electric shock hazards from plugging new items into outlets that still have power running through them.

Protect Your Roofing and Siding

Some decorations more commonly cause issues for your roofing or siding than others. Whether they were not installed correctly or are in critical positions that make it difficult to take down — it’s important to avoid any damage to your roof’s shingles and gutters or vinyl siding. And if any damage does occur, our team here at JM Roofing is ready to help.

Contact Us Today For Roofing and Siding Services In Norwalk, CT

November 23, 2021November 30, 2021

Can Siding be Installed in the Winter?

The question of whether or not it is possible to install siding in the winter can be a difficult one. Winter weather presents several challenges for installing new siding. You’ll want to consider a few factors before making your final decision, and we have all the important ones ready for you to think about!

Companies May be Limited

Winter might not be the most suitable time for a siding installation because many companies have limited or no work crews available in the winter months. This can lead to longer waiting periods for installation, which means more time without protection from the elements.

Check in with your installer and see if they can give you an accurate timeline of when they believe they could have the job done — that way, you’ll know if it’s the right time.

The Weather Can Make the Job Harder

Say your installation team is working on your siding one day when suddenly cold, light snow begins falling from above. Firstly, wet and cold weather will make working conditions very uncomfortable, so workers may need to return on a better day. Secondly, snow and ice can pose problems with installation: shingles will get stuck together, and freezing rain could lead to water damage if left unchecked. And lastly, if it begins to precipitate outside while your siding is exposed or not ready to protect your interior, it could mean long-term damage to your home! So timing this project is key.

The Benefits to Installing Your Siding in the Winter

While the reasons mentioned above make winter seem like not the best time to get your new siding installed, know that there are a few benefits to choosing this season for your project.

Siding is one of the most effective ways to protect your home from weather and outside debris damage. Installing new siding on the house during the winter months will keep you warm inside because of less airflow through open windows.

So, if it’s been a while since you last updated your siding and you notice a few issues with its structural integrity, it’s recommended that you take advantage of the end of fall and early winter to get this project started. Since, as we saw above, the more intense part of the winter season won’t be the best time to get your installation done.