LANDMARK EXTERIORS

Doing your part to reduce your environmental impact is on the minds of many individuals and homeowners in these modern times. One of the best decisions you can make for your home to be more eco-friendly is to choose a roofing material that is more sustainable.  

From the roofing experts at Landmark Exteriors, here are three sustainable roofing materials to consider for your home: 

Cedar Roofing

Homeowners love cedar roofs for their classic beauty, great durability, and many other impressive qualities. Wood is a sustainable source itself, making cedar roofing one of, if not the most eco-friendly option, assuming it is sustainably harvested. Because wood is a biodegradable material, it is fairly easy to dispose of and it won’t harm the environment. And for you and your home, cedar roofs help conserve energy because they provide natural insulation that reduces your energy bills.  

Metal Roofing

Though metal roofing uses an energy-intensive process to produce, they are one of the best options if you’re looking for a sustainable roofing material that is also incredibly strong, long-lasting, and customizable. So what makes metal roofing eco-friendly? Metal roofs are often made using repurposed materials and can be easily recycled when they’ve reached their lifespan. 

Slate Roofing

Slate tiles are very popular amongst homeowners for their beautiful appearance, but they are also the most durable roofing shingles, with some maintained slate roofs lasting for more than a century! Slate is a natural material from the earth and it lasts for a very long time, making it very environmentally friendly. Slate roofs also provide excellent thermal insulation, helping to reduce energy usage in your home.  

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 true; more and more homeowners are looking to replace their asphalt shingle roofs with something more durable and long-lasting. Cedar wood roofing continues to grow in popularity for homeowners looking to replace their roofs. The top-quality nature of cedar can not be matched!

From the Landmark Exteriors Connecticut roofing experts, here are five reasons to invest in a cedar roof: 

Gorgeous Appearance

Many homeowners agree that cedar roofing is one of the most beautiful roofing materials. Cedar shingles have a timeless, classic and sophisticated look that is sure to enhance your home and increase your curb appeal. 

Durability

Cedar wood is exceptionally strong and makes for a very durable roofing material. Because of their great durability, homeowners can expect their cedar roofs to last upward of three decades if properly maintained over the years.  

Thermal Insulation

When you install cedar shingles, you can expect lower energy bills. Cedar roofing provides natural insulation; twice as much as asphalt shingles! You’ll be amazed at how much heat and cooling energy you conserve that, in turn, will help reduce your energy costs.

Storm and Weather Resistance

If you’re looking for a roofing material that can withstand even the strongest severe weather, cedar is for you! Cedar shingles are very resistant to strong winds, heavy rain and snow, meaning you are less likely to need roofing repairs or replacements after a serious storm. Moreover, cedar roofing doesn’t rely on sealant to be installed, so you can have a cedar roof added to your home at any time of the year.  

Increased Home Value

Because of its great appearance, durability and more, your cedar roof will increase the overall value of your home. When it comes time to sell your house, potential buyers will love that you’ve invested in a strong, long-lasting roof that will protect their home and family. 

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.

Even the smallest roof leaks can seriously damage your home, and the longer you wait to get it fixed, the more costly and severe the destruction will be. After handling damage control inside your home, locating the source of the leak should be one of your next steps.

From the Landmark Exteriors team, here are four steps to help you find a roof leak and get it repaired:

Use Your Senses

When it comes to finding a leak in your roof, start by using your senses. 

• Look for any leaking water, water stains on your ceiling, bulging patches on your interior walls, and spots of water damage on your exterior walls. 
• Listen carefully for any sounds of dripping water. 
• Smell for any musty and unpleasant odors.

Any of these signs can point to a leak in your roof. But it’s important to be aware that the first place you notice the leak may not actually be where the leak in your roof is coming from. 

Inspect Your Attic

The next step to finding that pesky roof leak is to head to the attic and look for evidence. Grab your flashlight, watch your head, and look for water stains, mold, and black marks along the roof sheathing. If you don’t have access to an attic space, you’ll have to go directly to the roof. 

When inspecting the attic, you want to rule out any other possible causes of the leak. One particular place to check is around exposed nails; when moisture from the below floors meet the attic’s cold air, it condenses around the nail and then melts throughout the day, creating a water drip. 

Make It Rain

If your home and attic inspections are turning up dry trying to identify where the hole in your roof is, it’s time to simulate some rain; you’ll just need the help of two friends! Have one person waiting inside where you believe the leak is entering your home. Then have someone watch your ladder as you carefully climb up to your roof. Use a handy garden hose to shower one section of your roof at a time for a few minutes, and have your friend inside shout when they see a drip.  

Contact a Professional For Repairs

The best and safest way to ensure your roof is fully repaired is to contact your local roofing professionals. They will be able to inspect and repair any leaks and other issues with your roof quickly and safely. You’ll feel at ease knowing your roof will be back to tip-top shape before you know it.  

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.

Have you started your spring cleaning yet? Homeowners, year after year, make long lists of work that needs to be done to get their house ready for the spring and summer seasons, but too often is the roof overlooked. 

From the Landmark Exteriors roofing experts, here are a few tasks to add to your spring cleaning checklist to protect your roof:

1. Clear Off Debris

The fall and winter weather has likely left your rooftop a bit cluttered. Debris such as sticks, branches, and leaves left on your roof can clog up your gutter system and cause damage to your shingles. You can remove this debris either by hand or with the help of a leaf blower. If you can’t complete this task safely on your own, don’t hesitate to reach out to Landmark Exteriors for help.  

2. Cut Back Trees

If you have any trees with branches overhanging your roof or trees that look unstable, consider removing them asap; you never know when the next storm can come and knock them down on your home. 

3. Wash Off Mold And Mildew

If your roof has any leaks or is holding in moisture, you may notice mold and mildew growth. This is a serious concern because it can be dangerous for you and your family’s health. Look for any discolored streaks on your roof, and be sure to have it thoroughly cleaned by a professional.  

4. Look For Signs Of Damage

It’s possible the seasonal changes in weather, and heavy storms have left your roof with some concerning damages that you need to get fixed this spring. Be on the lookout for curled, missing, or broken shingles that need to be replaced and any holes or leaks, and don’t delay getting those repairs completed.  

5. Examine The Attic

One of the most important places to inspect for leaks and mold is the attic. If holes or leaks are present, have them addressed as soon as possible before the damage and your costs increase. It’s possible to also have mold and mildew growth even without a leak if there isn’t adequate ventilation, so be on the lookout for discoloration and foul smells signaling fungi growth. 

6. Check And Clean Your Gutters

Cleaning your gutter system twice a year should be on every homeowner’s list of to-dos, especially in the spring. Clear out any debris from your gutters and downspouts and look for any cracks that need to be fixed to ensure they can handle all the rain on its way. 

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.

Gutters serve an essential function in the well-being of your home, but the truth is, many homeowners take them for granted. At least twice a year, it’s crucial to clean out your entire gutter system because even one clog can lead to serious problems.  

From the Landmark Exteriors team, here are a few tips to help you handle your gutter cleaning safely:

Have The Right Tools Ready

First, you’ll need something to help you reach the gutters; a sturdy ladder should do the trick. Next, you’ll want to wear protective clothing and accessories such as a long-sleeved shirt, goggles or glasses, and gloves. Then, make sure you have a bag, bucket, or tarp ready to toss all your gutter muck into after removal. Lastly, make sure you have a hose, gutter scoop, or any other materials you are using to clean out the debris ready.  

Don’t Do It Alone

Never clean your gutters on your own; enlist the help of a friend or family member to ensure the job gets done safely. Your partner should be there to hold the ladder securely and hand you the tools you need while cleaning out the system.  

Scoop Out Debris

The best way to get those cluttered pieces of leaves, sticks, dirt, and more out of your gutters is to simply grab them and pull them out. Either use your gloved hands or a gutter scooping tool to get the job done. However, do not use a metal gutter scooping tool since scraping the bottom of your gutters can lead to serious rust and cracks after repeated use. 

Flush The Gutters

Now that you’ve scooped out all that gunk, grab your garden hose and let the water flush out your gutters to ensure a clean and functioning system. This will eliminate any last pieces of debris stuck throughout the unit and check for any leaks. 

Don’t Forget The Downspouts

Downspouts are very prone to clogs but are often forgotten about when it comes to gutter cleaning. A strong stream of water may be enough to rinse out the downspouts, but if not, you may want to be certain all those chunks of debris are out with the help of a trusty plumber’s snake.

Contact Landmark Exteriors for gutter 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 Rain Causes Roof Damage

Springtime in Connecticut means plenty of rain, wind, and more rain. Though that means we can expect lots of beautiful flowers once May comes, your roof may suffer some damage in the process. 

Your home’s roof is the first line of defense against severe weather, but heavy storms can compromise and damage your roofing system in many ways. Intense rainfall and fast winds can cause shingles to blow off, curl, or crack, leaving your roof vulnerable to even worse damages such as leaks: the most serious and common destruction caused by storms. If water finds its way into your house, you also may be left to deal with unsightly and dangerous mold or rot. 

Seeking help from your local roofing experts to repair any storm-caused damage and regular inspections is essential for maintaining a safe and functioning roofing system to protect you, your family, and your home. 

Tips To Prevent Roof Leaks

As previously mentioned, heavy rain storms can cause damage to your roofing system, resulting in leaks. The best way to rest assured that your roof is strong and less likely to spring leaks is with these tips:

• Routine maintenance and inspections – Enlisting the help of a roofing professional for regular maintenance and inspections can extend the lifespan of your roof and prevent serious and costly damages. 
• Inspect on your own – Make time to periodically check your roof, attic, and walls for any evidence of leaks or other damage that may need attention. 
• Check your drainage system – Give your gutters a lookover to make sure they are working properly and are safely draining water off your roof and away from your house’s foundation. As well, make sure there are no areas of your roof where water could be pooling. 
• Remove debris – Any debris such as sticks, branches, and leaves should always be removed from your roof to prevent clogs in the drainage system and avoid damage to the shingles.

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 get your roof replaced, consider slate roofing. Slate stones are metamorphosed sedimentary rocks made from clay and volcanic ash. Considered the highest-quality roofing material on the market by many, slate is loved by homeowners for its wide range of benefits. 

Take a look at these five advantages of slate roofing:

Incredible Longevity

You can expect your slate roof to last upwards of a hundred years! It’s true; with expert installation and periodic maintenance to ensure the tiles are in proper shape and there are no issues, your slate tiles can last for more than a century. Since slate is a natural stone that has existed on the earth for thousands of years already, it is incredibly strong and near indestructible, making it an ideal roofing material.   

Stunning Appearance

One of the most-loved qualities of slate roofs is their beautiful appearance. Slate roofing is opulent and timeless but also unique and modern. Many slate tiles come in different styles, colors, sizes, and textures to find the best option to match your home’s exterior. You’ll be amazed by the beauty of your home’s slate roof.  

Very Durable 

If you’re looking for a strong roofing material that can withstand the harsh elements, slate is for you. Water and fire damage are common causes of roof damage, but slate tiles are naturally fire-resistant, mold-resistant, and absorb little water. Strong winds also won’t be a problem since slate tiles are heavy and won’t be blown off easily. 

Eco-Friendly

The longevity of slate tiles for roofing is one of the main reasons it’s considered a very eco-friendly option. As well, slate is made from natural stone, as opposed to other roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, which are made from non-biodegradable materials. When it does come time for the slate tiles to be replaced, they will not negatively harm the environment.  

Add Value to Your Home

When it comes time to sell your home, potential buyers will be very interested in your slate roof, knowing its vast benefits and longevity. Homes with slate tile roofs will have a higher market value than similar houses without. Though the cost of a slate roof installation is more expensive than other materials, your home will then be valued much higher.  

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.

Getting a roof replacement is a big investment for your home and one that can’t be delayed for too long. It’s also a stressful process that takes time to prepare for and complete. If you’re looking for the best time during the year to get your roofing project completed, try spring!  

Here are just a few of the reasons why it’s best to schedule your roof replacement for the spring season:

Optimal Weather

The spring season brings the ideal weather for roofers to work on your home’s roof replacement. The temperatures are warmer than during the winter but typically not too hot, and the humidity tends to be lower than in the summer. High humidity is particularly not favored during a roof replacement because excessive moisture can cause damage quickly. Spring’s warm weather also provides a good seal for the roofing materials to set. The most you’ll likely have to worry about are those April showers.  

More Availability

Surprisingly, many homeowners get roof replacements done in the fall as they rush to get it done before winter arrives. Summer is also popular for roofing projects because people prefer to get outdoor work done when the weather is nice and sunny consistently. Because of this, spring often has greater availability for roofing companies, making it easier to work around your schedule. 

More Affordable

Since spring is often a slower season for roofers, the market becomes more competitive, leading to roofing companies offering you their best and lowest prices. You can likely avoid the hiked-up costs of a summer or fall roof replacement when they are at their busiest by booking for spring. 

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.

There’s something special about spring in Connecticut! Flowering trees that bloom when spring arrives is one of the excellent showings of all the great plant life that thrive in this warmer weather here in CT. Flowering trees look pretty, smell amazing, and also play an important role in feeding pollinators.

If you’re looking to spruce up your Connecticut yard, consider adding these spring-blossoming trees:

Eastern Redbud

If you’re looking for a colorful spring-esque flowering tree, eastern redbuds are a perfect choice. Their brilliant purple, red, pink flowers line their broad branches come mid-spring creating a pretty shape in any garden or landscape. Pollinators also love these flowers; just make sure they get plenty of water and proper fertilization to protect them from the heat.  

Serviceberries

This shrubby tree native to easter United States is more compact with its branches growing far with an explosion of crisp white flowers and a recognizable yellow center. Consider planting your serviceberry tree in front of your evergreens, so their spring white petals pop against the dark backdrop, and their fall foliage colors of red, yellow, and orange will stand out beautifully too.

Sweetbay Magnolia

Magnolia leaves have simple, dark green leaves that provide the perfect backdrop for their stunning, cupped white petals. The flowers on a Sweetbay Magnolia are often loved for their fresh aroma and strong resistance to pests and diseases. When the flowers’ seed pods are produced after blooming, revealing their bright red seeds, more birds and other wildlife may even visit your property.

Dogwoods

Dogwoods, especially Korean dogwoods, boast beautifully crisp, yellow, and white flowers when they bloom. A popular landscape addition for Connecticut homeowners, these trees are reliably disease resistant and incredibly picturesque.  

Flowering Cherries

Weeping flowering cherries are classic spring with their bright pink blooms mid-season. One of the reasons homeowners love planting this tree is that after spring ends and the pink tones in the petals begin to fade, they turn to coppery shades of burgundy come fall time. 

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.

Spring has sprung, which means warmer weather, longer days, and heavy showers are in the forecast. It’s important for every homeowner to consider the well-being of their home’s roof as the seasons change, and that especially goes for when spring arrives.

Take a look at these five tips to ensure your roofing system is ready for spring:

Schedule a Roof Inspection

One of the first things any homeowner should do when spring arrives is schedule an inspection with your local roofing team. The fall and winter weather can be harsh to any roofing system — it’s important to be aware of any serious issues and damages that need to be quickly addressed. Spring is the perfect time to get any work done on your roof since the warm weather is ideal for outdoor labor.  

Fix Any Damages

Now that you’ve had your inspection, it’s time to fix any problems. Your home’s roof has a big job in protecting your home and everything in it — lingering roofing issues can cause bigger and more costly issues for your entire house if they aren’t addressed properly. Don’t hesitate to consult with your local roofing experts to create a plan of action to get your roof back to tip-top shape. 

Clear Off Debris

It’s crucial to make sure any dangerous debris is cleared off your roof. This may include large sticks, leaves, and even animal nests. Sitting debris can create damage to your roof and clog your gutters. Since leaves and branches will continue to fall on your roof as the seasons change, it’s best to start spring with a clean slate. 

Evaluate and Clean the Gutters

Gutters play an integral role in any roofing system to help collect and redirect water safely away from your home. Gutters, unfortunately, do get clogged easily with leaves, sticks, branches, and more, which all get stuck and prevent a steady flow of water. Now that snow and ice are over, it’s the perfect time to check your gutter system for any damages and make sure they are thoroughly cleaned out and ready for April showers.  

Check Your Attic

The well-being of your roof can also tell you a lot about the condition of your roofing system. First, check for any signs of holes and daylight intrusion. Next, examine the entire space for water damage, including active drips, damp beams, standing water, mold, etc. Regularly inspecting your attic space can help you spot leaks and other roofing problems.   

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.