How The Summer Heat Affects Your Roof

The temperatures are really heating up now that summer has officially arrived, and your roof is starting to feel it. As a homeowner, you may be tempted to forget about your roof this season when it comes to home maintenance, but that’s a mistake. The summer heat and sun rays can be incredibly damaging to your home’s roofing system and cause serious problems. 

Here are the many ways the summer heat can affect your home’s roof: 

High temperatures

If your roof isn’t shaded, the dark colors in your roof will absorb the heat. These high temperatures being absorbed into your roofing system will accelerate the aging process and cause the materials to break down, meaning costly repairs in the future.  

UV Exposure

The UV rays from the sun hitting your roof day after day for hours cause the aging and wearing process to quicken. As well, these harmful rays cause wood to bleach and crack, asphalt shingles to buckle, and oils used during the construction process to dissipate. 

Thermal Shock

Your home’s roof will reach very high temperatures during the day while the sun is blaring and will then cool off quickly after the sun sets, causing what’s known as thermal shock. This thermal shock causes the materials in your roof to expand and contract as the temperatures change, leading to a weakened structural integrity as time passes.  

Summer Storms

As the temperatures increase, so does the frequency of storms. Summer storms include high winds, heavy rain, lightning, and possibly even hail that can seriously damage roofs. Be sure to check your attic for signs of leaks, look for signs of blockages in your gutters, and call a roofing professional to do a proper roof inspection after a severe storm.  

ROOF INSPECTION, REPAIR, AND INSTALLATION IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CT

If you’re concerned about the safety of your home’s roofing system, it’s crucial to have it inspected and repaired by a team of professionals. 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.

What is Cedar-Life’s Cedar Preservation Process?

Cedar roofing and siding continue to grow in popularity! If you have cedar roofing or siding, proper treatments and maintenance are essential to maintaining a beautiful appearance, increasing the longevity of the shingles, and increasing your home’s value. Luckily, Cedar-Life is here to help.

What is Cedar-Life?

Cedar-Life is a division of Landmark Exteriors and is a leader in cedar roof and siding preservation. We utilize a process that cleans and preserves cedar, which delays the aging process, prevents the harmful effects of sun, rain, and snow, and protects against mildew and algae growth. This treatment will help not only keep your home’s cedar in great, beautiful condition but will also improve the overall structural integrity of the roof or siding.

Our Cedar-Life roofing preservation process consists of:

  • A comprehensive roof inspection to determine the structural integrity.
  • An assessment of any necessary repairs or shingle replacement.
  • Our bleach-free, environmentally-friendly cedar cleaner is applied to remove dirt and fungus in conjunction with a controlled, pressurized cleaning system.
  • Lastly, we use our exclusive, highly-refined, formulated preservative, which will make the shingles more supple and protect them from sun damage.

We have used this process on countless homes with cedar roofs across Connecticut to improve the appearance and lifespan of their roof.  

Why Choose Cedar-Life For Your Cedar Preservation

Here are a few reasons why you should choose Cedar-Life for your home’s cedar roofing or siding:

  • We are recognized as an industry leader in cedar roof and siding preservation.
  • Cedar treatments require a specialist who is knowledgeable and trained in properly cleaning and treating cedar, and every person in our team is an expert.
  • We use only proven, tested, and certified products. Our cedar cleaning and restoration products are bleach-free and environmentally friendly.
  • We are fully insured and follow strict safety standards as well as Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau guidelines.
  • Our preservation process has been proven to last longer than the competition. Our products help extend a cedar’s roof life by 35 to 50 years.
  • Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and our experts are committed to improving the health and beauty of your home’s cedar.

CEDAR ROOF INSTALLATION & PRESERVATION IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CT

If you’re looking to have a cedar roof installed on your home or need your home’s cedar to be restored and maintained, we’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s cedar looks beautiful and is healthy for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 or visit our website to learn more!

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.