All About Slate Roofing

If you’re looking to get a unique, timeless, and high-quality roof for your home, slate roofing tiles may be just what you need! Along with the many positives that make slate tiles an intriguing option for your home’s roof, there are some additional considerations, as for any roofing material, you’ll want to take into account.  

Here’s all you need to know about slate roofing:

The Advantages of Slate Roofing

Investing in slate roofing for your home has some major upsides, mostly because it’s a natural stone product that is sure to make your roof stand out. Take a look at all the amazing pros to entice you to choose this roofing material:

  • Beauty – One of the main reasons homeowners want to use slate tiles for roofing is its beautiful and unique appearance. No other roofing material has a classier, more regal and timeless look. Also, slate tiles can be found in varying sizes, thicknesses, and colors including gray, green, purple, black, red and mixed so you can get the perfect look for your home.
  • Long-lasting – Most roofing tiles, particularly the most popular type, asphalt shingles, are made to last between 20 and 30 years before needing to be replaced. A slate roof, however, can last for well over a century if properly constructed.
  • Fire-resistant – Slate tiles are among the most fire-resistant roofing options, which is essential in keeping your home and family safe. Unlike other materials, slate is entirely fireproof on its own, so you can feel confident your roof won’t catch on fire from wildfires, fireworks, adjacent house fires, and more. 
  • Environmentally-friendly – Roofing waste accounts for about 5 percent of the total waste in landfills in the United States each year. This natural stone, while incredibly long-lasting, is a great option to minimize any environmental impact.

Additional Considerations When You Choose Slate Roofing

Just like any roofing option, there are several negatives you may need to consider before deciding on slate tiles for your home. Be aware of these cons before choosing slate for your home’s roof:  

  • Cost – Because of its longevity and it being a high-quality natural stone, slate tiles are more expensive than other roofing materials. The installation cost will also be higher since fewer people are aware of how to install it properly. 
  • Requires Expertise Installation – Slate roofing is less common than other roofing materials, and many roofing companies don’t have the necessary skills and knowledge to install slate tiles properly but they may try anyways. Be sure that you hire a roofing team with plenty of experience and solid references from past slate roofing installations.
  • Maintenance and Repairs – If, for any reason, slate tiles are damaged, cracked or fall, replacing them calls for careful attention and a specific skill set.
  • Weight – Slate roofing is much heavier than other roofing materials. Slate tiles can range between 800 and 1,500 pounds per 100 square feet, so you must have your house inspected for structural stability prior to installation.  

If you have more questions or are interested in slate tiles for your roof, make sure to call a trusted team of professionals to get you what you need.

ROOFERS IN FAIRFIELD, CT

Interested in slate roofing or need a roof replacement or repair? We’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your roof both looks great and functions properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.

Tips For Keeping Deer Off Your Property

Here in Connecticut, there’s no shortage of deer! While they typically mind their business and are away in the woods, if they find your plants and shrubs tasty and enticing, they’ll be coming back time and time again! It’s certainly reasonable for you to want to do what you can so they spend their time elsewhere. Luckily, you have plenty of options to safely keep these pesky deer off your property and away from your home. 

Fence Your Property

The most effective method of keeping deer off your landscape is to utilize fencing. Though this may be laborious and more expensive, installing proper fencing at least 8 feet high around the perimeter will help keep deer out. You can opt to put in temporary fencing just for the winter season, but be sure you have an area to store it throughout the warmer months.

Cover Your Plants

Deer most often come on your property because they’re looking for something tasty to eat, so try to make their food source unattainable. Do this by covering your shrubs and plants with burlap, deer netting, or secured tarp so no deer can get to it. Deer will mainly target any new trees or plants, making it important to prioritize covering those.

Utilize Repellents

You can purchase various deer repellents to keep deer from returning to your property while looking for a meal. Spray your repellent across your trees, plants, and shrubs from the ground up to 6 feet high for a season-long barrier to keep deer away. You may need to reapply the repellent after lots of rainfall and change the type of repellent to prevent deer adaptation.

Plant Natural Deer Repellent Plants

You may also want to consider planting various plants and shrubs that act as natural deterrents for deer. Swap out tulips or lilies for daffodils in your garden, as daffodils as they are unpalatable to deer. You may also want to consider planting thorny roses and other prickly plants that deer won’t want to go near, such as fuzzy lamb’s ear, cleome, or barberries.

Create Levels

Deer are not good climbers, so adding levels to your property is an effective way of keeping them out. You can do this by adding sunken beds, terraces, or stacking pallets around your home’s perimeter. As well, any important potted plants or greenery you wouldn’t want them getting, you can move to your porch as they will likely not climb your stairs. 

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.

Our Winter Home Care Services

We’re here to protect your home all year long, and that includes winter! We know that the cold-weather season can bring a lot of snow, ice, and other harsh weather conditions to the Connecticut area. Though we’re sure you’re more than prepared and adapted to New England winters, the professionals at Landmark Exteriors want to help ensure that your home is ready to withstand any severe weather and fix any issues that arise as a result.  

Take a look at our winter home care services:

Roof Snow Removal

Continuous snowfall that sits and weighs heavily on your roof can cause significant problems for your home, including holes, leaks, and more costly damage. Whether you have a flat or slanted roof, our team can come and safely remove the snow, to prevent any further issues, and so you don’t have to worry.

Ice Dam Removal

Ice dams and those beautiful-looking icicles that hang off the side of your house can destroy your gutter system and can create cracks or leaks in your ceiling. Let us safely remove any ice dams along your home to ensure everyone’s safety and keep your roof protected.

Snow Guard Installation

Snow guards can be installed to prevent snow collection on the edge of your sloped roof. This product is designed to protect your house from snow buildup that causes hefty damages. Give us a call to install these as part of your roofing system to put your mind at ease.

Gutter Repair

If your gutter system has been damaged by winter weather, we’re here to help! Our team of experts can help fix or replace your gutters so that they can do their job.

Roof Inspection and Repair

If you are worried about possible damages to your roof caused by winter weather or any other reason, let us take a look! We can carefully inspect for any issues or potential problems and make the necessary repairs so your roof can continue to protect the rest of your house and everything that’s inside.

ROOF REPAIR 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. 

Common Winter Roof Damage To Be Aware Of

Winter may be a beautiful season, but it can come with some costly damage to your home. Your roof is the main barrier to protect your house and all that’s inside it, but the elements can destroy even the best of roofs. It’s crucial that any homeowner is aware of all the potential risks and knows what to look out for during the winter season.

Take a look at these potentially dangerous situations for your homes roof:

Icicles and Ice Dams

Although icicles hanging off the side of your house are a beautiful sight, they can cause severe damage to your gutter system and your roof shingles. As well, icicles that fall off of trees onto your roof can create holes or cracks. If you notice an abundance of icicles hanging off your home, be sure to have a professional examine your roof, gutters, and insulation in the surrounding area for any leaks. If it is safe to do so, try to remove any icicles before they develop further.

Heavy Snowfall

Those fluffy snowflakes can really do some damage! If heavy snowfall is in the forecast frequently, you’ll want to pay extra close attention to the condition of your roof throughout the winter season. Snow can be mixed with ice, and though it may appear soft, it is heavy and will weigh down on your roof, causing shingle damage, leaks, and cracks. Contact a local professional to help examine and correct any roof damage, and have it cleared off if you have concerns.

Melting Snow

When snow first falls, there is the potential for damage, but snow melting can be even more dangerous. If the snow’s heavyweight isn’t enough, as it melts, it starts to pool and find its way through any cracks and holes and into your house, creating costly destruction. One of these risks is mold growth that can affect your families’ health. If you notice any leaks or cracks, call a professional immediately.

Hail

Those intense lumps of ice falling from the sky can be devastating to the condition of your roof. The force at which these ice chunks fall can easily knock shingles loose, damage them, or even punch right through and leave holes in the roof. Missing or damaged shingles don’t look good but are also a reason to give your local roofer a call to fix the problem.

ROOF REPAIR IN NORWALK, 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. 

Can A Roof Be Repaired During Winter?

Simply put, yes, your roof can be repaired during the winter! Sometimes, your roof must be fixed if it received any severe damage due to the winter elements, which can often happen. Destruction caused by snow, hail, ice, and more often leads to other costly problems in and around your house. No matter the cause for damage, a fully functioning roof is essential to you and your home’s safety.

Here are some pros and cons of roof repairs during the winter months:

Pros

Here are some positives of getting your roof repaired during winter:

  • Problems are solved immediately – As we mentioned, roofs do a lot of work and are exposed to many harsh elements, especially during winter. Getting repairs done right away can ensure no further problems are created.
  • No heat is escaping your home – As a result of roof damage, hot air will escape, leaving you with a colder home and higher energy bill, so getting repairs done is essential.
  • Cheaper – Since warm weather is always busier for roofers, the cost of repairs may be less expensive.
  • Ready for spring – Your roof will already be in tip-top shape before warm weather arrives, and it’s one less spring-ready chore to get done.

Cons

Here are some negatives to getting your roof repaired during winter: 

  • Shingles take longer to seal – Though it may be cheaper, it may take your roofers longer. If your roof has shingles, replacing them is a timely task as they require a specific temperature range to seal correctly.
  • More difficult to schedule – Weather is undoubtedly unpredictable, and roofers need to work under safe conditions, making it harder to plan and schedule roofers to come and get the job completely done.
  • More dangerous – As we mentioned, weather can be harsh, making it often unsafe for roofers to work, so there are more chances of risks and problems completing the job.  

ROOF REPAIR IN NORWALK, 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.

What Are Ice Dams And How To Fix Them

Severe winter weather can wreak havoc on your home if you’re not prepared when storms roll around. One of those potential dangers, not only for your house but also for your safety, is ice damming. This bizarre occurrence affects and causes costly damage to many houses each year, so we’re here to help you stay ahead and help you when you need it.

What are Ice Dams?

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that has formed on the ledge of a roof. For these to form, there must be snow piled on the roof, while the temperature at the top is more than 32 degrees Fahrenheit and the lower surfaces are below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, causing melting on one end and freezing on another. This temperature difference is most often caused by heat from your home due to air leakage.

This ice ledge is dangerous because it prevents water from melting snow from safely flowing off the roof. Instead, the water builds up and can leak into your home and damage, including mildew and mold growth on walls, ceilings, insulation, and more. This damage can be costly, inconvenient, and potentially affect your health from breathing in mold and mildew if it has grown as a result. As well, ice dams can be a hazard to individuals outside that can unexpectedly have snow, ice, or icicles fall on them.  

How to Fix Ice Damming

It’s important not to let ice damming sit and take immediate action, so here are a few things you can do to solve the problem: 

  • Use a roof rake – A push broom can be used to quickly remove snow that’s piled up on your roof, but it’s possible to damage your roof in the process unknowingly.
  • Hose with tap water – In a dire situation, you can use a house and warm water to start the melting process.
  • Improve your home’s insulation – Thinking long-term, seal any air leaks that would cause higher temperatures on the top areas of your roof.
  • Call a Professional – The safest and most effective way to get rid of ice damming dangers is to call a team of expert professionals to handle the job so no one is injured and to ensure your home is safe as well.

ICE DAM REMOVAL IN NORWALK, CT

Need help removing ice dams from your home safely? The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home is safe this winter season and all year long! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.

How to Lower Your Energy Bill in Winter

All homeowners know that winter’s arrival also means you’re also expecting a much higher energy bill. Heating your home accounts for a large portion of that bill, making it necessary for many to find alternative ways to stay warm and keep costs down. Don’t worry; you’re not alone, and we’re here to help!

Take a look at these handy tips to help keep your energy bills a bit lower this winter season:

Set Your Thermostat Lower

The easiest way to save some money with a lower energy bill is to simply lower your thermostat. Don’t feel as though you need to suffer what feels like arctic temperatures while in the comfort of your home, but setting your thermostat just a few degrees lower can result in significant, long-term savings on your bill.

Bundle Up Instead 

Rather than cranking the heat when you feel cold, bundle up in some warm and cozy clothes! Put on some thick socks, slippers, sweaters, hats, and more to get rid of that uncomfortable chill. Don’t be afraid to add some extra blankets to your bed at night to keep you warm while you sleep.

Seal Up Air Leaks

Do you feel any chilly drafts inside your home? That means heat is escaping. Hunt down those air leaks and stop them by caulking or weather-stripping doors and windows. Make sure also to check that the attic, crawl-spaces, and other areas of your house are properly insulated. 

Let The Sun In

The most natural way to keep warm: the sun! If the sun is shining brightly during the day, open up those blinds and curtains and let the rays give your home some natural light and heat. As soon as the sun starts to set, close those blinds and curtains back up.

Close Your Fireplace When Not in Use

Lighting a fireplace is a great way to stay warm in your home. However, cold air will sneak inside when there is not fire. Be sure to keep your damper closed whenever the fireplace is not in use. 

Reverse Your Ceiling Fans

Don’t just keep your ceiling fans set to off this winter! Reverse your home’s ceiling fans to rotate clockwise, which will then help create an updraft, displacing the hot air gathered by the ceiling, so it can move downward and keep the whole room warm.

HOME EXTERIOR CARE IN NORWALK, CT

Need help taking care of your home’s exterior? The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help the outside of your home look and perform its best this winter season and all year long! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.

Home Exterior Trends For 2021

Have you been putting off those home exterior renovations? Are you looking to modernize and redesign your house? 2021 is the perfect year to do so! 2021 is filled with exciting new trends that abound to make any home look modern and beautiful.  

Have the trendiest house on the block by trying out some of these exciting exterior home trends for the new year:

Extra Windows, Please!

Bright and airy interiors are totally on-trend and increasing in popularity for new homes, so naturally, lots of windows are a must! The appearance of windows and how they are shaped and accentuated can drastically change the overall look of your home and may just be the architectural eye-catcher you’ve been looking for.

Creamy White Paint

White will never go out of style, but painting your whole house the right shade of this neutral, is never easy. Creamy shades of white covering your home, whether you’re painting the brick or utilizing siding panels, are a top trend this year. Utilizing the right pleasing shade of white will give you the chance to experiment with various accent colors and architectural designs for other parts of your home, such as the roof, windows, doors, and more.

Intriguing Dark Colors

Others are deciding to go dark and mysterious when deciding on a new exterior color for their house. Dark paint colors have been increasing in popularity over the years, which will be no different in 2021. Homeowners are excited about taking dark colors such as navy blues, maroon, and dark grays and finding ways to make their home look unique and inviting. Dark colors are eye-catching, dramatic, and bold and also make for a perfect canvas for other colors, materials, and architectural elements for your house.

Different Sized Garage Doors

Garage doors, serving an important house function, can also be utilized as an eye-catching architectural element to your home’s overall design. This year, homeowners are experimenting with different sized garage doors for an exciting appearance and to take advantage of their available space as much as possible.

Copper & Metal Roofing

Shiny and durable copper or metal roofing is bound to be at its peak in popularity this year. If homeowners are looking for a unique and sensible new look for areas of their home, these roofing materials are a great option. Not only do they look beautiful, but they can also withstand all sorts of weather, are long-lasting, light-weight, and sustainable. 

HOME EXTERIOR DESIGN IN NORWALK, CT

Want to take advantage of some of these trends? Do you need help making your home and property look their best? The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help bring your dream home to life! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.

Winter Safety Guide: For You And Your Home

Are you enjoying the winter season? Aside from the beautiful snow and cozy days indoors, winter brings dangerous and frigid outdoor conditions that can leave you and your home susceptible to hazards and potential harm. Taking the time to ensure you are safe from any dangers, and your home is ready to protect you, and your family is crucial for getting through this chilly season.

Tips For Keeping Yourself Safe This Winter

It’s getting cold, and between the temperatures and dangerous weather, winter is a time you’ll want to be sure you’re doing what you can to keep you and your family safe from any dangers:

  • Think about your health – Winter is flu season, so be sure you and your family are taking necessary precautions to stay healthy by getting immunized, washing your hands frequently, keeping your distance from others, and wearing masks when you leave your home. 
  • Bundle up – Keep yourself warm and cozy both indoors and outdoors by dressing appropriately and covering your extremities to avoid frost-bite and chills.
  • Stay hydrated – Just like when the weather is scorching, you want to be sure you’re staying hydrated with lots of water throughout winter, especially if you plan on being outdoors.
  • Watch for ice – Mind your steps when outside to avoid slipping on ice, especially on blacktop pavement where it may be hard to see.
  • Handle snow removal safely – If you plan on removing snow from your property on your own, be sure to do so safely and protect yourself from injury.
  • Be prepared for emergencies – Winter storms can lead to power outages or being trapped in your home for extended periods, so prepare ahead by gathering necessary supplies such as flashlights, batteries, food, water, blankets, winter clothing, charging devices for electronics, and more.

Tips For Keeping Your Home Safe This Winter

Your house is your biggest defense in staying warm and safe all winter long, so make sure your home is up to the task:

  • Winterize your home’s interior – Be sure that your home is adequately insulated by checking for any drafts, weather-stripping doors and windows, and adding more insulation to attics, crawl spaces, or other areas that need it. 
  • Winterize your home’s exterior – Make sure your gutters are cleaned out, be sure your exterior water system is turned off and your pipes are secure and insulated, and fix any damage to your roof or siding before a serious snowstorm.
  • Check your heating system – Have a professional look at your heating system if you have any concerns about how it’s functioning. As well, if you have a fireplace, have your chimney inspected and cleaned.
  • Have your snow gear ready – Whether you’re using shovels or a snowblower to tackle the snow on your property, have them readily available for you when needed. 
  • Keep up with repairs throughout winter – If your home’s roof needs snow removed or is damaged, or there are damages to your siding or gutters, call a professional to make sure your home is properly protected and prevent further damage.
  • Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors – If you haven’t in a while, now is a great time as any to check your safety detectors and change their batteries.

HOME EXTERIOR CARE IN NORWALK, CT

Need help making your home and property look its best? The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help the outside of your home look and perform its best this winter season and all year long! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more. 

How Ice And Snow Affects Your Roof

There’s nothing like a beautiful snowfall during the winter season! While it’s undoubtedly an incredible site, lots of snow and ice falling on your roof with nowhere to go can for sure be a nightmare. We’re here to help you be prepared before more snow falls, so you can ensure your roof is well-protected.

Take a look at all the ways snow and ice can negatively impact your roof and home, so you know to be cautious:

Roof Stress

Snow and ice don’t run easily off of your roof as rain does. The added weight and pressure from built-up snow and ice, especially in back to back snowstorms, can cause severe stress and potential damage to your roof. In a worst-case scenario, part of the roof can collapse. Take a look inside at your ceilings to spot any signs of stress such as leaks, tiles falling, etc., and call a professional if you have any concerns.

Ice Dams

If there is enough ice accumulating on the roof, ice dams can form. Ice dams are created from ice and snow melting and flowing down off of the roof and then freezing again right at the edge. Not only can this cause water damage, but ice dams could also potentially destroy your gutters.

Freeze and Thaw Cycle

As the snow and ice thaw and then freeze, often in a repeated cycle, damage can happen quickly. The melted water seeps into any cracks, and then, when the water freezes, those cracks will widen and cause more damage and possibly lead to mold and mildew developing in your living areas.

Icicles

While they may be pretty to look at, those icicles hanging off the sides of your roof can be hazardous. Not only do you have to worry about one falling on you unexpectedly, but forming icicles can be a sign that you have more significant problems at hand, including gutter blockages and roof damage.

Damage From Roof Snow Removal

Having snow removed from a roof is often a necessary step in protecting your home during a heavy snow season, but this is no easy task. Since it’s easy to remove shingles accidentally, make holes or cracks in the roof during removal, it’s best to call in a professional to do the job correctly and safely.

ROOF SNOW REMOVAL IN NORWALK, CT

The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help protect your roof and home from the dangers of snow and ice! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more about our services that are here to help your home look and perform its best and keep you safe all winter season long.