How to Choose The Best Gutters For Your Home

Gutters serve an important function for the home; they catch and relocate water safely off your roof and away from the house’s foundation. Ensuring your home’s gutter system is always working properly is essential for any homeowner. That especially includes knowing the right time to consider gutter replacements.  

There is much to consider when getting a new gutter system for your home: shape, material, cost, installation, etc. Overall, you’ll want your gutters to look great against your house, but ensure that they will function efficiently for years to come. To ensure you get the right gutters, working with an expert team is best.  

From the gutter experts at Landmark Exteriors, here’s what to consider when getting new gutters for your home:

Gutter Materials

There are many types of materials that can be used to make gutters that you’ll need to choose from: 

  • Galvanized steel – These steel gutters are coated with aluminum and zinc for extra strength and protection and to alleviate any chances of rusting.
  • Zinc – Another great option, zinc gutters are durable and often don’t need any painting or finishing. 
  • Copper – A very strong gutter material that offers a unique, beautiful appearance. 
  • Aluminum – The most common and often least expensive gutter material, aluminum gutters are lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and available in various colors to match your home but will need replacement every few years if not maintained properly.
  • Vinyl – Another more inexpensive option that is customizable but not as durable and long-lasting as the options above.  

Gutter Designs

Homeowners in the market for new gutters will not only have to choose the gutter material but also their shape and style. Some popular options to consider include: 

  • Half-round – Half-round gutters are the most decorative gutter option as they are designed to complement both traditional and contemporary architecture, adding upscale detail to any home. They have a weightier feel and work well when installed with a slate, wood, or tile roof. As they are convex in shape, they allow water to flow easily, typically with less pitch than other gutter options.
  • K-style (OGEE) – The most common gutter style, k-style or OGEE gutters, have a similar shape to decorative crown molding and are seamless, which adds to their appeal and reduces the possibility of leaks.
  • Yankee – Yankee gutters preserve the intricate woodwork details of a structure, are integrated into the roof’s framing, and create a traditional look. Their channels are generally wider than modern gutters and consist of a wood-framed gutter trough lined with copper.

Contact Landmark Exteriors for gutter inspections, repairs, and installations!

The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s gutter system looks great and functions properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 or visit our website to learn more.

The Benefits of Replacing Your Roof During The Fall Season

A total roof replacement is a major renovation and takes a lot of hard work from an expert team, but they are essential to protect your home and all it houses. If you think it’s time to replace your roof, the fall season may be the perfect time to cross it off your list. 

From the expert roofers at Landmark Exteriors, here are five reasons why the fall season is ideal for your home’s roof replacement: 

Storm Season Has Ended

Spring and summer storms are not to be underestimated. Since rain can extend and derail a roof replacement, it’s important to avoid it as best you can when scheduling roofing projects. By the fall season, hopefully, most of the serious storms are past, and the cool, dry weather is in full swing. As a result, there will be little interruption to prolong the job. 

Be Prepared For Snow

Whether you want it to or not, winter is coming, and so is the snow! With a brand new roof, you’ll be more prepared than ever to protect your home from snow, ice, hail, and whatever else the winter season can throw your way; after all, that’s its job! You won’t have to worry about any damages or issues with your roof’s well-being all winter. 

Save on Heating

Just like the snow on its way, the chilling cold will be here before we know it! A new roof can reduce your heating bills this winter, as it can provide excellent insulation for your home. 

Proper Sealing

By getting your new roof installed in the fall, there will be an adequate amount of time for your roof materials to bond to the roof before snowy, cold weather arrives. This as well helps improve insulation from the moisture and cold temperatures.  

The Conditions Are Ideal

Many roofers will agree that temperatures between 45 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal for roof installations for the materials to dry and bond. Also, the cooler temperatures are more comfortable for your roofers to work in since roof replacements require intense labor and lots of work.  

Contact Landmark Exteriors for roofing inspections, repairs, and installations!

The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing system looks great and functions properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 or visit our website to learn more.

Tips For Protecting Your Gutters From Severe Storms

Severe storms can pop up at any time, so it’s best to be prepared. Your home’s gutters serve an important function of collecting rainwater off your roof and rerouting it safely away from your home’s foundation. If your gutter system is clogged, broken, or not functioning properly, this could cause a serious and costly issue after a heavy storm.

From the team at Landmark Exteriors, here’s how to get your home’s gutter system ready for severe storms:  

Empty And Clean Your Gutters

To handle the tons of water that flood your gutters during a heavy storm, you need to ensure nothing is clogging or taking up space in your gutters. Make sure to periodically clean out any dirt and debris throughout the gutter system, downspouts included, to ensure they can do their job properly– this is the most crucial step in preparing your gutters for rain.  

Check The Hardware

Gutters can take a real beating from a storm’s rain and wind, so while cleaning your gutters, take a few moments to check over all the hardware that makes up the system to ensure it’s ready for what’s ahead. Be on the lookout for cracks, loose pieces, rusting, or anything else concerning that might need to be fixed.  

Trim Nearby Trees

And now that your gutters are clean and debris-free, you’ll want to make sure any overhanging or nearby trees are trimmed back. Doing this helps reduce worry that leaves and sticks can fall off and damage or clog your gutter system. 

Get an Inspection

The best way to be certain your home’s gutters are ready to handle severe weather is to have a local professional inspect the system. It’s recommended to get an inspection done at least once a year to ensure the gutters are doing their job properly and to avoid more costly damages. 

Don’t Wait For Repairs And Replacements

If you or the inspector determines that repairs are needed, or it’s time for a total replacement, don’t put it off. Waiting to get them fixed can leave you with more serious and costly problems for the gutters themselves and your house’s exterior. 

Contact Landmark Exteriors for gutter inspections, repairs, and installations!

The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s gutter system looks great and functions properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 or visit our website to learn more.

How Long Does It Take to Replace a Roof?

Getting a Roof Replacement

A roof replacement for your home can take anywhere between one to twelve days (even longer if unforeseen circumstances arise). On average, roof replacements don’t need to take too long, especially if you have a skilled team handling the job. However, there are various factors that can affect the project’s timeline.  

What Affects How Long a Roof Replacement Takes?

Several factors can affect how long your home’s roof replacement will take:  

Roof Accessibility

The ability of your roofing contractor and their team to access your roof may impact the roof replacement. For instance, if your home is surrounded by many bushes, trees, or fences that get in the way of the roofers and the equipment, it could take longer for the project to be done.

Roof Materials

There are many different roofing materials to choose from when getting a roof replacement, and some roof types will take longer to install than others. For example, metal and tile roofs are among the most durable and long-lasting roofing materials, but they can take longer to install initially as opposed to asphalt roofs which are designed to be installed quickly and replaced more frequently.  

Home Size

In general, the larger your home is, the longer it will take to get the roof fully installed. Some small homes can be done in a day, no problem, while other, larger homes will need at least a few days to complete. 

Weather

Weather, as we all know, is very unpredictable. Installing a roof is unsafe for the workers and the roofing materials when there is rain, snow, or very hot or cold temperatures. If bad weather is on its way, your contractor will have to delay the project until it’s safe to continue.  

Contact Landmark Exteriors for roofing inspections, repairs, and installations!

The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing system looks great and functions properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 or visit our website to learn more.

The Importance of Cedar Roofing Preservation

Cedar roofing continues to be a popular choice for homeowners for its beautiful appearance, longevity, weather resistance, and energy efficiency. However, some homeowners forget the importance of regular maintenance and preservation to ensure that their home’s cedar not only looks its best but lasts as long as possible.  

Benefits of Cedar Roofing Preservation

Here are some of the many ways cedar roofing preservation is beneficial: 

  • Enhance the cedar’s natural beauty. Cedar roofing adds elegance and class to your home, and with preservation, that beauty will remain and last for years to come. 
  • Increase your roof’s lifespan. An untreated cedar roof may need complete replacement after 15-18 years, while treating your roof every five years may make it possible for your roof to last 35-50 years before needing to be replaced.
  • Protect against the weather. As the seasons’ change, your cedar roof will be battered with snow, rain, winds, and more. Though your cedar roof is durable, the shakes can be damaged more easily if not protected and preserved regularly. 
  • Prevent mildew and algae growth. Cedar shakes are prone to mildew and algae growth if left untreated for long periods of time. 

Cedar-Life by Landmark Exteriors

Cedar-Life, the sister company of Landmark Exteriors, is a leader in cedar roof and siding preservation. Our proprietary process cleans and preserves cedar, delaying the harmful effects of sun, rain, and snow, as well as preventing mildew and algae growth. We only use proven, tested, and certified products, including our one-of-a-kind cedar cleaner, which is bleach-free and environmentally friendly. 

Cedar-Life is proudly regarded as an industry leader in cedar roof and siding preservation. When you choose Cedar-Life, you are hiring cedar experts dedicated to improving the health and beauty of your home’s cedar.

Contact Landmark Exteriors for cedar roofing inspections, repairs, and installations!

The cedar roof experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing system looks great and functions properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 or visit our website to learn more.

5 Tips to Prepare Your Roof for Hurricane Season

Hurricanes can be scary, but they’re even more frightening if you aren’t prepared. Your home’s roof is your first level of protection from the intense weather, so it’s essential to make sure it’s prepared to handle all that a hurricane can bring.  

From the expert roofing team at Landmark Exteriors, here are five tips to help prepare your roof for hurricane season:

  1. Schedule an Inspection

The only way to be certain that your roof is in good shape and ready to handle a hurricane is to get it professionally inspected. An expert roofer can spot any damage and vulnerable areas of your home’s roofing system. Furthermore, they can recommend the next course of action for any needed repairs. 

  1. Continue With Regular Maintenance

Every homeowner should follow a consistent roofing maintenance routine, including professional inspections, examinations, cleanings, and repairs. Before hurricane season, do not skip out on any important roofing maintenance tasks to ensure there are no damages or problems that can put your roof, your house, and you at risk when a storm hits.  

  1. Trim Nearby Trees

Hurricane winds can be very powerful and cause trees around your home to fall and potentially strike and damage your roofing system. The best way to prevent this from happening is to have any loose or leaning trees on your property removed and trim back overhanging branches.  

  1. Clean Your Gutter System

Your home’s gutter system plays a major role in mitigating rainwater safely off your roof and away from your house. Hurricanes can lead to immense amounts of rain being dumped onto your home, so it’s important to be sure your gutters and drains are clear of any debris and blockages that can interrupt the flow of water.  

  1. Review Your Insurance and Warranties

You can never be certain of how devastating the hurricane will be to your home, and unfortunately, even if you do all the above steps, there still might be significant damage. Before any storm arrives, take some time to review your insurance plan and current roof warranty so if disaster strikes, you are familiar with all the information you will need.  

Contact Landmark Exteriors for roofing inspections, repairs, and installations!

The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing system looks great and functions properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 or visit our website to learn more.

7 Tips For Cleaning Your Home’s Windows

Windows are one of the most important parts of your home! Regularly cleaning them to ensure they look great and sunlight can shine through isn’t the easiest home maintenance task, especially because it can be a challenge to get the results you want. 

Below are a few tips to help you clean your home’s windows so they’re streak-free and spotless: 

  1. Clear off dust and debris first.

Before getting started, take a few minutes to brush or vacuum your window sills to eliminate the built-up dust and dirt. Not doing so can cause them to get stuck to your windows, making it more difficult to get a nice, thorough cleaning done.  

  1. Avoid cleaning in the sun. 

It’s best to wait for a cloudy day to clean your home’s windows. The heat from the sunshine can cause the water and cleaner to dry too quickly, leaving tough spots and streaks across the window. Waiting for clouds or cleaning at hours when the sunlight has moved away from your home can save you from frustration.  

  1. Utilize cold water. 

Similar to the effects of sunlight while cleaning your windows, warm or hot water can evaporate too quickly and leave streaks from the water and cleaner. Using cold water is an easy solution to this problem. 

  1. Use the right cloth. 

Don’t just use any old cloth or paper towels to clean your home’s windows, or you’ll be left with lint and debris all over. For the best streak-free results, use a clean microfiber cloth. 

  1. Try a squeegee.

You may want to try a squeegee to get the job done, especially if you have large windows, just like the pros use! Luckily, they are very easy to use; just soap up your window and wipe downward at 45-degree angles with a dry squeegee. Be sure to dry it after each use, so you’ll be left with spotless windows.

  1. Tackle those tough stains.

If you have difficult hard water and other stains that aren’t coming off easily, it may help to use a mild abrasive cleaner to lift it up. You may also want to try a cleaning solution with vinegar because the acidity can break up the stain. 

  1. If you can, clean the outside from the inside.

Many modern homes have double-hung windows that can tilt into your home, making it easier and safer to clean the outside. If you do need to head outside with a ladder, make sure there is someone else there to help keep you safe. 

Contact Landmark Exteriors for siding and roofing inspections, repairs, and installations!

The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s exterior looks great and functions properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 or visit our website to learn more.

What Should My Roof Estimate Include?

Planning a roof replacement can be an overwhelming experience. Most homeowners don’t know what to look for when getting estimates from different companies, but it’s essential to do some research about roofing estimates to ensure you are getting the best services and minimize the chances of complications.  

Here’s what your roofing estimate should include:

Payment Information

This should include the due dates of payment and what methods of payment are accepted. 

Costs

All service costs should be detailed, including labor, equipment, materials, removing the old roof, dumpster rentals, debris removal, and more.  

Roofing Materials

There should be a detailed section explaining and listing all the materials used on the project and their costs, including roof coverings, shingles, drip edges, flashing, nails, ventilation, etc. There should also be a description and list of all the steps and work being done on the home.  

The Work Being Completed and the Expectations of Work

There should be a complete description and list of all the steps and work being done on the home included in the estimate. The contractors should also list the guarantees of their workmanship, results, and the cleanup afterward.  

Timeline

The estimate should list the entire approximate timeline of the project from start to finish.  

Warranty

Be sure the estimate includes all the information about the warranties for both workmanship and materials. 

Insurance and Licensing

Never sign a contract with a roofing contractor unless you are sure they have proper insurance and a license to work. 

Additional Charges

If there is a possibility for additional charges to be added throughout the project, there should be a section detailing these add-ons.

Contact Landmark Exteriors for roofing inspections, repairs, and installations!

The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing system looks great and functions properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 or visit our website to learn more.

How to Care For Your Home’s Siding During The Summer

Your siding is crucial to the protection and well-being of your house’s exterior– it protects against harsh weather conditions and holds your home together. As the years go by, your siding will need some maintenance and TLC to help it stay in good shape.  

From the home siding experts at Landmark Exteriors, here are a few tips to help you maintain your siding during the summer months: 

Look For Damage and Problems

Before doing any other kind of care for your siding, it’s important to do an inspection. Be on the lookout for any signs of warping, breaks, missing pieces, or other damages or irregularities. More specifically, check for split panels, peeling paint, and changes in texture for vinyl siding. If your home has wood siding, look for loose boards, soft spots, insects, and other signs of rot. 

Clean The Siding

Your home’s siding is very susceptible to plenty of dirt, dust, and debris, especially once summer arrives. As things build up, it is also possible for mold and mildew to grow as well. The cleaning method you choose should depend on your siding’s material. In general, try using a cloth or sponge and a mild detergent to scrub and then rinse for surface cleaning. Consider power washing if your siding is sturdy and needs a deep clean.  

Refurbish The Paint

Your siding sits in the sun all day long, and those intense sun rays can lead to some wear and fading of the paint. Summer is a great time to get a new coat of paint on your siding, so it not only looks good as new but is protecting your home properly.  

Schedule Repairs And Replacements

If any issues with your home’s siding need to be fixed or replaced, don’t put it off– the damage could become worse and more costly the longer you wait. Contact your local roofing professionals to examine the issue and make the recommended repairs or replacements. 

Contact Landmark Exteriors for siding inspections, repairs, and installations!

The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s siding looks great and functions properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 or visit our website to learn more.

FAQs About Metal Roofs

If you’re looking to replace your roof, join other homeowners and consider metal roofing! 

From the metal roofing experts at Landmark Exteriors, here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about metal roofing: 

Q: What are the benefits of metal roofing?

  • Metal roofs come in a variety of colors and design options. 
  • Metal roofing is incredibly durable and can last more than 30 years. 
  • Metal roofing is fire and rot-resistant. 
  • Metal roofing is energy-efficient and can reduce your energy costs. 

Q: Can metal roofs be installed over an existing roof? 

Yes, they can! Metal roofing is lightweight and is unlikely to overload your current asphalt roof. Installing your metal roof over an existing one can also provide extra insulation.  

Q: Is metal roofing noisy?

Metal roofing is typically installed over an existing roof or a plywood and felt base. As a result, sounds from wind, hail, and other weather conditions aren’t any louder than other roofing materials.  

Q: Is metal roofing expensive?

Metal roofing does cost more than an asphalt roof. Initially, installing a metal roof will be more expensive, but it will last longer and need less maintenance over time, potentially saving you money in the long run. 

Q: Is metal roofing environmentally friendly?

Yes, metal roofing is a much more sustainable option than asphalt roofs. Your metal roof may be partially made from recyclable metal, and at the end of its lifespan, it can likely be recycled again, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to other roofing materials. 

Q: How do metal roofs handle snow and ice?

Metal roofs are great for colder climates that get heavy snowfall. When snow lands on your roof, it won’t build up and will instead slip right off, also helping to reduce ice formation. 

Q: How can I learn more about metal roofs?

Give the metal roofing experts at Landmark Exteriors a call at (203) 838-3838!

Contact Landmark Exteriors for roofing inspections, repairs, and installations!

The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing system looks great and functions properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 or visit our website to learn more.