LANDMARK EXTERIORS

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. 

2. 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.  

3. 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.  

4. 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.  

5. 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.

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.  

2. 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.  

3. 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. 

4. 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. 

5. 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.

6. 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. 

7. 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.

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.

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.

It’s important to care for your property every season, but when summer comes, your home requires some extra maintenance. Summer is the time for outdoor living and enjoying the outdoors, meaning your property’s looks and functionality is more important than ever. 

From the team at Landmark Exteriors, here are some maintenance tips to help you take care of your home and property this summer season: 

Clean up With a Power Washer

The heat and humidity that encompasses the summer season can cause mold and mildew to grow outside your home. Use a power washer to help you get a thorough clean on your patio, driveway, walls, and siding; they’ll all look good as new! 

Clean Out Your Gutter System

The spring and winter seasons likely have left your gutters clogged with all kinds of dirt and debris that can lead to broken and inefficient gutters. Take some time to safely remove all that gunk out of your gutters and downspouts to make sure water has a place to safely drain away from your home. 

Beautify Your Lawn

If you love having a luscious green lawn and vibrant plants surrounding your home, it will take some work to get there. Your plants, trees, and grass are begging for some TLC to help them grow and thrive. Mow, seed, and fertilize your lawn while giving your flowers and trees the mulch and water they need to grow to make your property look great!

Wash Your Windows

Let the light shine into your home by getting outside and cleaning your windows. Use hot, soapy water to scrub and thoroughly clean the surfaces for a spotless finish. Don’t forget the screens, too! 

Get A Roof Inspection Done

As the seasons change, your roofing system handles a lot, from heavy snow to rain to hail to heat. Getting an inspection done every year helps ensure your roof remains in good working condition. As well, your roofing expert can spot any damages and potential issues that need to be addressed soon before it worsens and becomes more costly. 

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.

Summer is in full swing, and it’s time to enjoy it to the fullest! Fairfield County, CT, is a great place to be this time of the year with wonderful weather, beautiful nature, and a scenic coastline. 

If you’re looking for a few ideas on what to do with the family this summer season in Fairfield County, CT, our team at Landmark Exteriors has a couple of ideas for you: 

Enjoy Some Time by The Water

Fairfield County, CT, is home to a variety of gorgeous beaches where you can enjoy a beautiful summer day. Stick your toes in the sand or take a refreshing swim in the water while you’re at the beach. Click here to see which beach is closest to you. 

Visit the Zoo

Who doesn’t love animals? Have a fun-filled day learning about and seeing various animals at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo this summer! Located in Bridgeport, CT, the Beardsley Zoo has plenty to see and do for everyone in the family; you’re sure to have a roaring good time!

Take a Trip to Some Local Museums

From the Fairfield Museum & History Center to the Housatonic Museum of Art to The Glass House, there are plenty of exciting and educational museums to check out. There’s plenty to learn about and enjoy at these museums (plus you can cool off from the summer heat)! See a list of more interesting museums in Fairfield County, CT, here.

Play a Round of Mini Golf

The mini version of this loved sport is fun for every member of the family! Compete with your loved ones or just have some fun playing 18 holes on creative courses while enjoying some fresh air outdoors or some cool air conditioning indoors. Find some Fairfield County, CT, mini golf courses here.

Go Berry Picking

A variety of berries are in season and ready to be picked during the summer season. Visit a local berry farm to pick your own fresh blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and more. You’ll enjoy a great day outdoors and have some delicious fruit to snack on and cook with at home. Click here to see a few berry farms you can consider visiting!

Enjoy a Nature Hike

There are so many beautiful sights to see in and around Fairfield County, CT. Grab your hiking shoes and some water, and get ready to hit one of the many great hiking trails in our area to breathe in some fresh air and see all that nature has to offer. Click here to see some of the best hiking trails near you. 

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.

Did you know a quiet, hot sunny day can damage your roof as much as a heavy snowstorm? The summer heat is no joke as it can be really intense. While you stay cool in the comfort of your home, your roof is taking the brunt of the sun’s burning rays to protect you and your family. And you may not realize it, but the consistent heat on your roof can cause damage and speed up the aging process.  

How Heat Can Affect Your Roof

Just like heavy snow, hurricanes, and intense winds, it’s important for homeowners to be aware of how summer heat can affect their home’s roofing system. Here are some of the problems to keep an eye on throughout the summer to protect your roof:

• Intense Heat – The roof’s surface will absorb a ton of heat throughout the summer season. Depending on the roofing material and outdoor temperature, a roof without any shade protecting it can reach upwards of 170 degrees Fahrenheit. Though most roofs are designed with this in mind and are built to withstand high temperatures, extreme heat still has the capability of accelerating wear and tear, decreasing the lifespan of your roof. If your attic is poorly ventilated, this can also worsen the problem.
• UV Radiation – Radiation emitted from the sun’s powerful rays are also a serious threat to your roof during the summer because of the longer days. Did you know UV rays can even reach your roof on cloudy days? The UV radiation can cause the oils in your roofing materials to dry out quicker, any wood to bleach, weaken, and even crack, and asphalt shingles to curl and buckle. 
• Thermal Shock Cycles – After your roof reaches really hot temperatures during the day, it can then cool off very quickly due to reduced outdoor temperatures after the sun sets at night. This daily cycle and drastic temperature change can cause your roofing materials to expand and then contract, weakening the overall structural integrity of the roofing system as a whole. If this is a problem, you may notice warping and cracks forming throughout the roof.  

How to Protect Your Roof From the Heat 

Summer heat won’t damage your roof overnight; the effects will instead accumulate over time, causing its lifespan to decrease. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to protect your home’s roof from enduring damage during the summer months: 

• Proper Ventilation – Every homeowner needs to ensure their attic and roofing system are well-ventilated to avoid heat from being stored and causing problems. 
• Pick the Right Roofing Material – If you’re getting a roof replacement done, consider installing a metal, tile, or slate roof, as these materials are very durable, especially against heat and UV radiation. 
• Pick the Right Roofing Color – Lighter colors generally help reflect the sun’s rays, while darker colors will absorb the heat. If you’re concerned about heat absorption in your roof, consider opting for a lighter shade during your roof replacement. 

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.

When building a new house or replacing your roof on your existing home, deciding on which roofing material is best is an important choice. Asphalt shingles and metal roofs are among the most popular options for homeowners for their many benefits, but they are very different. 

Here’s what you need to know about metal roofing and asphalt shingles before getting your roof replaced:

What is Metal Roofing?

Metal roofing consists of large, flat sheets of metal that are molded into roofing panels and attached to your roof using an interlocking seam design. Metal roofs come in all shapes and sizes, making it easy to find exactly what you are looking for to match your home. 

Advantages of Metal Roofing

• Long-lasting and strong
• Thermal insulation
• Low maintenance
• Customizable

Disadvantages of Metal Roofing

• Higher cost of installation
• Installation is longer and more difficult
• Heavy in weight– can cause complications regarding the load-bearing capabilities of the house

What are Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material used on homes all across the United States. Asphalt shingles consist of a smooth asphalt layering over a fiberglass sheet base with a granular top surface. These shingles are layered and staggered down the roof’s slope and then nailed onto a wooden-framed roofing structure.

Advantages of Asphalt Shingles

• The cheapest roofing option
• Very readily available in various colors
• Easy to work with
• Relatively durable

Disadvantages of Asphalt Shingles

• Minimal energy-efficiency
• Susceptible to damages from severe weather
• Not long-lasting

For more information about metal roofing installations in Connecticut, turn to the experts at Landmark Exteriors.

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.

Roofs serve an important function in protecting your home and everything inside, but it also plays a big role in the overall aesthetics and attraction of your house’s curb appeal. Color can make all the difference, and if you’re looking to get a new roof, this isn’t a decision you’ll want to rush. 

From the Landmark Exteriors roofing experts, here are a few tips to help you choose the best roofing color for your home:

Match The Color of Your House

The first step in choosing the right roof color is to look at the rest of your home’s exterior. The most important thing is that your roof’s color complements the rest of your home for a unified, attractive look. Take a look at these expert recommended color combinations to get you started: 

• Red house – Dark brown, dark gray, black roof
• Blue house – Gray, brown, black, white roof
• Green house – Light cream, light brown, ivory, gray roof
• Brown house – Shades of brown that are lighter or darker than the siding color, black, gray, green, blue, red roof
• White house – Brown, gray, black, green, blue, red roof
• Beige house – Brown, black, gray, dark green, dark blue roof
• Light gray house – Dark gray, dark green, dark blue, black, white roof

Decide if You Want to Make a Statement or Not

Do you want your roof to stand out on your block or blend seamlessly with your neighbors? Do you want a vibrant color or one that’s more neutral? You’ll definitely want to consider how bold of a color you want to choose for your home and how much it will pop compared to your house’s exterior and surroundings. 

Look Around Your Neighborhood

Drive or walk around your neighborhood and look for other homes with a similar style or exterior color to yours and see what color roofing they have. This can help you get a real-life idea of what colors will look best and what to avoid when making the decision for your home.

Look at The Color in Real Life

Don’t just base your decision off of what you see on a screen. Get some sample roofing colors and get outside. Hold up the colors and see what matches. Don’t forget to look at different times of the day and in various weather conditions! 

Consult With The Experts

If you’re having trouble deciding, don’t be afraid to ask your local roofers for their opinion; they’ve seen just about every color roof you can think of and know what works best and is most popular among homeowners. They’ll help steer you in the right direction.

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.