What To Do If Your Roof Is Leaking

A home’s roof handles a lot of intensity from the natural elements to protect you and your family, so damage and leaks are unfortunately inevitable. No one wants to spot a leak coming from their home’s ceiling, but if the time comes, it’s important you know what to do. The most crucial thing to remember when it comes to roof leaks is to always take immediate action.

Contain The Roof Leak

Once you’ve found a leak in your roof, the first step is to contain it the best you can so further damage doesn’t spread. Start by clearing the area where your leak is so your personal belongings don’t get ruined. Then, try to catch the water with a pot or bucket wherever the leak is dripping.  

One important thing to be aware of is that the leak is likely not coming from where you believe it is, and to find the cause, it’s crucial you call your local roofing company in Connecticut

Don’t Wait, Call A Professional

Contact your local roofers for a thorough inspection to see what needs to be done to resolve the issue. It’s essential you don’t wait to get your leak fixed, even if it doesn’t seem to be serious. The longer it persists, the worse the damage will spread, and the more costly the repairs will be. Other than water dripping from your ceiling, some signs to look out for that mean your roof is leaking include: 

  • Water spots on the ceiling or walls
  • Water spots or roof decking that is wet (visible in the attic)
  • Cracked or damaged shingles
  • Missing shingles
  • Missing flashing around your chimney

Prepare For Repairs

Hopefully, you were able to catch the leak quickly, and the repairs will be isolated to one area. However, if the damage was extensive or your roof is relatively old, a total roof replacement may be needed. Be sure to consult with your local expert roofers to handle any repairs or replacements.

ROOF REPAIR AND INSTALLATION IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CT

If you’re looking to have your roof fixed or redone or your gutters replaced or cleaned, we’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing, and gutter systems both look great and are functioning properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.

When Do Roofs Need To Be Replaced?

Homeowners often forget to think about a roof’s needs until it’s too late and there is a serious issue. However, proper care and maintenance can help ensure your roof stays strong for years to come. Are you thinking about getting a replacement done soon? 

When Should My Roof Be Replaced?

Determining when a well-cared-for roof needs to be replaced will depend on the roofing material. Here is the general timetable for each type of roof:

  • Asphalt shingles – 15-30 years
  • Metal roofs – 25 – 35 years
  • Copper roofs – 30 – 50 years
  • Slate roofs – 50 – 100 years
  • Cedar roofs – 18 – 25 years

Getting yearly professional inspections, fixing any issues as soon as possible, and getting any required maintenance done when it’s recommended will all help you extend the life of your home’s roof.

Signs Your Roof Needs Replacement

It may be time for a replacement if any of these are the case for your home’s roof:

  • You have a leaky roof – Check the inside of your home, specifically the attic, for signs of leaking. Any leak, especially one that went untreated, will likely require a total roof replacement.
  • Shingle problems – If you notice there are missing, curled, or cracked shingles, a repair is needed as soon as possible. If problems with shingles and granules are progressively falling off, a replacement will be required soon.
  • Rot – A noticeably drooping or sagging roof will need to be replaced right away to prevent a collapse and further home damage.
  • Your roof is turning green – Green patches on your roof aren’t a good sign. This means that moss, mold, or fungi have started growing because of trapped moisture, which can ruin your roof.
  • It’s been a long time – Check your paperwork and see when it was that your roof was last replaced. If it’s past the average time that your roofing material lasts, it’s time to contact your local roofers for a replacement.

ROOF REPAIR AND INSTALLATION IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CT

If you’re looking to have your roof fixed or redone or your gutters replaced or cleaned, we’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing and gutter systems both look great and are functioning properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.

Tips To Prevent Carpenter Ants

Have you noticed any large black or reddish ants wandering through your home’s interior or exterior? You may want to get a close look at those ants because if it is indeed a carpenter ant, you’ll need to ensure they don’t cause your house any severe damage. 

Carpenter ants are wood-destroying insects that love to make their nests in the wooden parts of your home, such as decking, cabinets, siding, fencing, and more. Actively preventing these ants from hurting your home should be on the list of to-dos for any homeowner. 

Why Carpenter Ants Are A Serious Problem

Many homeowners shrug off seeing one or two carpenter ants crawling around, which is a mistake. Just because you only see a couple of these little ants doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty more eating out at the wooden areas of your home. 

Carpenter ants don’t eat through wood the same way that termites do, but they still can leave you with a lot of damage. These ants create tunnels throughout the wood to create comfortable nests. When this happens, support beams can break, floors can dip, walls can bulge, and much more severe destruction can ensue.  

What You Can Do To Prevent Carpenter Ants

Before these carpenter ants start infesting your home, it’s ideal to take preventive measures to ensure they never find their way to your house in the first place. Here are some ideas to help you prevent a carpenter ant infestation:

  • Relocate wood items – If you have any firewood, construction materials, or any other wood products, consider storing them outside of your house at least 20 feet away, and if possible, elevate them off the ground. 
  • Cut back branches – Keep branches and brushes cut short and away from your home, so shade is reduced. The sun can dry up any exterior moisture and prevent rot, which attracts carpenter ants. 
  • Keep your gutters clean – Obstructed gutters with any breaks throughout the system create puddles and moisture outside your home, which create rot.
  • Fix any issues – If there are any water issues near your home or any rot, have them fixed as soon as possible. 
  • Get an inspection – Have a professional inspect your home for any issues or signs of carpenter ants frequently to ensure your house is safe and protected.

ROOF REPAIR AND INSTALLATION IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CT

If you’re looking to have your roof fixed or redone or your gutters replaced or cleaned, we’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing and gutter systems both look great and are functioning properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.

How to Start Composting at Home

If you’re looking to reduce your food waste at home and live a more environmentally conscious lifestyle, composting is for you! Easily done at home, composting helps give items you would typically throw out in the garbage a new life.  

What is Composting?

Composting is the natural process of recycling organic matter and turning it into a beneficial fertilizer to help enrich your soil and help plants grow. The composting process involves putting items such as food scraps, paper waste, and yard waste into a bin or pile where worms and microorganisms can break down the scraps and turn them into nutrients. 

How Can I Start Composting at Home?

Are you ready to start composting? Here’s how to get started:

  • Select your food scraps and be ready to store them – Think about what foods you eat and cook with and what scraps you’ll have available. When composting, you’ll learn that there is a decomposition time frame that requires you to layer your scraps over time rather than throw it all together at once. So, gather some containers and make space in your fridge and freezer to store these scraps.
  • Choose the right location for your compost – Depending on your space available, you’ll want to decide if a compost bin or pile is right for you. Luckily, both options work great! Determine which part of your home or backyard you’d like to keep your compost.
  • Make your mix – Start making your compost mix with both green and brown organic material. The green would be considered food scraps, while the brown would be paper or yard waste. Ideally, you want to layer the browns on the bottom with the greens on top.
  • Wait and aerate – The decomposition time varies based on the temperature. If it’s hot, it can be as short as two months. Another crucial part of composting is allowing air to flow throughout, so turning your compost every seven to ten days will bring you success.

What Items Can and Can’t be Composted?

There are plenty of different items from your home that can be composted that you would normally throw away. This includes: 

  • Vegetable scraps
  • Fruit scraps
  • Cooked food without oil, dairy, or meat
  • Coffee grounds
  • Teabags
  • Eggshells
  • Grass clippings
  • Flowers
  • Tree leaves
  • Wood shavings or sawdust
  • Black and white newspaper clippings
  • Printed paper

Be sure not to add these items to your compost:

  • Oils and butter
  • Dairy
  • Meat and fish
  • Bones
  • Diseased yard waste

ROOF REPAIR AND INSTALLATION IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CT

If you’re looking to have your roof fixed or redone or your gutters replaced or cleaned, we’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing and gutter systems both look great and are functioning properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.

5 Most Commonly Asked Roofing Questions

Roofs are easy to forget about when caring for your home, but they have an important job and can get damaged easily! Doing your research to understand the maintenance needed for your roof and what to do if there are any issues can be very beneficial. Take a look at these most frequently asked questions about roofing.

How can I tell if my roof needs to be replaced?

Typically, roofs, especially asphalt roofs, should be replaced at least every 25 years. By this time, shingles can curl or fall off, mold can grow, and leaks and cracks can develop, leading to more costly damage to your home. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to speak with a local roofing contractor about repairs or a complete roof replacement.  

If there’s a leak in my roof, do I need a whole new roof?

It depends on what has caused the leak. Older roofs that are leaking because of severe wear and tear and damage will need to be replaced soon. If the leak is due to an issue with the chimney, or a missing or damaged shingle, repairs can be done. Your roofing contractor can help determine the severity of the leak and damage and recommend the best course of action.

What is the best type of roof?

Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer to this question. The best roof for your home is the one that suits your needs, budget, and house the best. Every roofing type such as asphalt shingles, metal, tiles, cedar, slate, and more all have their positives and negatives. When considering which roof type to install for your home, be sure to think about the budget you have available, beauty and curb appeal, durability, weather resistance, longevity.

Why are the shingles discolored?

If you notice your shingles are changing color, there is likely algae, fungus, or mold growing. This growth occurs when the weather is very humid. It’s essential to have a roofing contractor come and clean the issue and determine if more serious damage is a problem that will persist the algae, mold, or fungus growth.

How long do roofs last?

On average, asphalt roofs last up to 30 years, metal roofs last up to 70 years, and cedar roofs can last up to 50 years. With any roof, proper maintenance and routine inspections can help extend the lifespan of your span. When it does come time to get a roof replacement, being proactive is key to ensuring a quick, easy, and successful new installation.

Call us for an inspection today

If you’re looking to have your roof fixed or redone or your gutters replaced or cleaned, we’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing, and gutter systems both look great and are functioning properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.

How To Celebrate Arbor Day at Home

Arbor Day, which means “tree” day translated from the Latin word for tree, arbor, is a national holiday that celebrates the maintenance, planting, and preservation of all trees. In 1872 in Nebraska, Arbor Day began when a journalist named Julius Sterling Morton led an initiative where approximately 1 million trees were planted by himself and others volunteering. Their newly started tradition then spread, and this holiday is still celebrated by many today!

If you’re looking to celebrate Arbor Day this year, here are a few things you can do at home: 

Get Planting

Get out in your yard and get to work! Planting a tree will require you to get your hands a bit dirty, but the results will be amazing:

  1. First, decide which tree is suitable for your property. You’ll want to consider how it will grow and look over time, how much care, sun, and water it needs to thrive, and which trees work best in your climate.
  2. Next, you’ll want to find the perfect spot for planting where there is enough room for it to grow.
  3. Lastly, prepare your soil, plant your tree in the ground, and water it.

Tend The Trees On Your Property

Give the existing trees that are a part of your home’s landscape some love! Go outside and give them a good watering, clean up any dead leaves or branches, trim any wild and unwanted branches, or add mulch to the soil to control weeds and maintain moisture. Now your trees can continue to grow happily and healthily.

Visit a Local Park and Clean Up

Take a trip to a park nearby your home. Grab some garbage or recycling bags and clean up! Litter can harm the environment, including the trees and the animals that call those trees home. This simple task makes a difference and will make the park a more enjoyable place to play and admire nature for everyone.

Support Organizations That Plant and Protect Trees

Another way to celebrate Arbor Day is to support a charity that works to plant or protect trees! A quick donation of any amount can help make a difference. You can also research stores and companies that donate money to these organizations or plant trees when you make a purchase.

Enjoy and Appreciate Nature

Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the nature around your home. Breathe in some fresh air and marvel at the beautiful trees on your property. Have a happy Arbor Day!

EXTERIOR HOME MAINTENANCE IN FAIRFIELD, CT

Does your roof need some repairs done? We’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your roof both looks great and is functioning properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more. 

Tips To Prepare Your Roof And Gutters For Spring Weather

Don’t forget about your roof and gutters as you’re doing your spring maintenance! Both these systems play a crucial role in the safety of your home and everyone that’s in it. So, it’s important to be sure there are no damages or issues that could cost further problems. 

Be sure to seek professional help with inspections and fixes to be certain everything is working correctly.

Here’s what you need to do to ensure your roofing and gutter system are ready for the warm weather season:

Remove Any Debris

The first step to getting your roof ready during the spring is to remove any foreign object and debris. This can include sticks, branches, leaves, and more. These items can cause holes, damaged shingles, and clogged gutters that could leave you with costly repairs.  

Inspect Your Attic

Take some time to look in your attic and crawl space the best you can for any signs of holes, including drafts, daylight intrusion, or leaks. Mold growth is also a sign of a leak or opening, which can cause health problems for anyone in your home, so be sure to check frequently.

Check Your Roof For Damages

It’s essential to be aware of any damage caused to your roof during the winter season. To be sure everything is safe, have a professional inspect your roof for any missing or damaged shingles or tiles, any holes, shingle buckling, or any other issues. They’ll also be able to tell you the right course of action to have any damages repaired or if there is a risk for future issues.

Clean Your Gutters

Your gutters need to be cleaned! They likely have leaves, twigs, or even animal nests creating clogs in the system that can cause damage to your home. Have a professional take a look and clean the entire gutter system to ensure the job is done correctly.

Fix Any Problems

If you notice any problems or damages, you must have them fixed as soon as possible. Call a team of professionals to fix any issues with your roofing and gutter system, so you don’t have to worry during the spring and summer seasons.

ROOF AND GUTTER MAINTENANCE IN FAIRFIELD, CT

If you’re looking to have your roof fixed or redone or your gutters replaced or cleaned, we’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing, and gutter systems both look great and are functioning properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.

Spring Yard Cleanup Checklist

Spring is in full swing! How does your lawn look? If you’re like most people, you’re noticing some dead areas, little green color, and grass that needs some serious TLC. When you’re doing your spring cleaning, don’t forget to add yard maintenance to your list so that it can be happy and healthy all summer long.

Take a look at some tips to help you with your yard cleanup:

Grab Your Rake

You’ll want to start by clearing up all the debris that has been left behind from the cold weather months. You might find dead leaves, dead grass, pinecones, sticks, and more. Clear it all out so you can start fresh with a clean yard, and don’t forget to go in your gardens to clean up around your plants and shrubs as well

Perennials and Grasses

Grab those pruning shears and get to work! Ideally, you want to prune flowering perennials to be a high of about 4 inches, and ornamental grasses should be pruned to about 2 inches so they can grow and thrive for the season. Dig up any perennials that are damaged and where the soil has thawed or where there is overcrowding. 

Lawn Care

It’s time to give your lawn some attention. Prepare for seeding by raking up any dead areas and testing the soil’s pH levels to fix any issues. Gather your seed, fertilizer, and compost to prepare for new, healthy grass growth. With plenty of water and care, your lawn will look green, healthy, and bountiful before you know it!

Don’t Forget Your Trees And Shrubs

The cold, windy, and snowy weather may have hurt some of your trees and shrubs, so begin your care by pruning any dead or damaged branches off. You’ll also want to use your shears to help shape any hedges to get a more consistent and even growth as the season continues.

Give Your Other Yard Elements a Lookover

Check your pathways and patios for cracks, damages, and debris that needs to be cleaned up or fixed. Grab your pressure washer and give those surfaces a shiny clean that will have your neighbors impressed all season long. As well, check out your fences and ensure they are sturdy and don’t need any repairs.

EXTERIOR HOME MAINTENANCE IN FAIRFIELD, CT

Does your roof need some repairs done? We’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your roof both looks great and is functioning properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more. 

Beginner Gardening Tips

Are you looking to enjoy the outdoors more this summer? Gardening might be the perfect activity for you, and now is the time to start! Gardening can be a relaxing, enjoyable activity for you to get more sunlight and fresh air in the warm weather season. Gardens, whether you’re growing flowers, fruits, or vegetables, your garden will look beautiful on your property and is sure to put a smile on your face.

If you’re a beginner to gardening, these few tips should help you get started: 

Pick The Right Site

The first, most important part of starting a garden is finding the optimal location. Start in an area of your yard that you’ll be able to see easily from inside; that way, you keep an eye on it, and you’re more likely to tend to it regularly. As well, your plants need sunlight and water, and lots of it! Be sure your garden is put in an area that gets lots of sun time and is near a convenient water source.

Don’t Be Afraid To Use Containers or Raised Garden Beds

If you don’t have much space to work with or have impossibly rocky soil making up your ground, you can utilize raised garden beds or containers to home your plants, so you don’t have to worry about these issues and place your garden where it’s best.

Invest In Good Soil

One of the best ways to ensure a thriving garden is to use both nutrient-rich and well-drained soil. Speak with your local garden shop or do some research about which brands of soil are optimal.

Think About Your Climate

Not all plants, fruits, and vegetables grow best under the same circumstances. Some actually prefer colder temperatures, while others love the heat. Think about what you’re looking to grow before you go shopping and check which are ideal for the current weather conditions.  

Seeds or Plants

You’ll want to think about and decide if you wish to plant seeds, which will take a bit more work and more care, while you can replant already growing flowers, fruits, or vegetables. This decision may change your work amounts, your time, and what you want to plant. 

Don’t Forget Mulch

Be sure to apply a layer of mulch around each of your plants 2 to 3 inches deep to help reduce weed growth and hold in moisture. 

EXTERIOR HOME MAINTENANCE IN FAIRFIELD, CT

Does your roof need some repairs done? We’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your roof both looks great and is functioning properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more. 

Important Reasons To Keep Your Roof in Tip-Top Shape

It’s no secret; the roof is one of the most essential parts of any home. Despite this, many homeowners overlook the maintenance and care required to keep your roof in working order protecting you and all that’s inside your house. Seeking a professional’s help to care for your roof will be very beneficial for you. 

Here are five important reasons why you should keep roof maintenance in your mind as each season starts:

Protection From The Elements

Weather is unpredictable, and it’s important to feel confident that your home is there to protect you from the harsh elements no matter what comes your way. Your roof is the most significant part of this defense and protection, so be sure it’s properly maintained and ready to do its job.

Home Value

A good-looking and maintained roof will increase your home’s value and is a great selling point. Potential buyers are cautious about investing in a house with an older or damaged roof as they will need to make costly repairs or a replacement in the future. 

Curb Appeal

Every homeowner deserves to smile every time they look at their beautiful house. If your roof shows signs of damage or wear and tear, it takes away from your home’s curb appeal and attractiveness. 

Energy Efficiency

A roof in tip top shade should provide your home with great insulation that will keep the indoor temperatures steady and comfortable. This can help cut down your energy costs as well.

Health Concerns

A leaking roof that isn’t fixed leads to mold and mildew growth inside your home. As the mold or mildew spreads throughout your home, air quality becomes unhealthy, and serious health complications can occur for those living in the house.

ROOFERS IN FAIRFIELD, CT

If you’re looking to have your roof maintained or redone, we’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing system both looks great and is functioning properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.