Snow And Your Roof

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

Although our area hasn't seen excessive snowfall just yet, that doesn't mean it isn't going to come by the end of the winter season. And if it does, you'll want to know if and how it can damage your home, right? If so, then you've come to the right place! Thanks to Home Sessive, we've outlined the dangers of heavy snow accumulations as well as the warning signs that suggest your home has been threatened by winter weather; check them out below!

Dangers

While snow covered homes make for a pretty picture, the damage that results from keeping them that way can be devastating for homeowners. When too much snow accumulates on top of your home, its overall weight begins to place a strain on the structure of your roof. Then, when that snow begins to freeze or melt, additional pressure is felt by your home due to the ice or water that develops. Unfortunately, as a result of the added weight, your roof's underlying structure weakens and becomes vulnerable to caving in.

Warning Signs

So how can you tell when enough is enough? If your home exhibits any of the following characteristics following a period of snowfall, it's possible that the roof is about to give out:

• Popping or creaking sounds are coming from the roof.
• Walls are beginning to crack from top to bottom.
• Doors are bursting at the seams or are extremely difficult to open.
• The roof is noticeably sagging.

In order to eliminate the possibility of your roof caving in this winter, it is extremely important to remove any snow immediately following a massive storm. For the best practices on how to do so, click here.

Here at Phil's Main Roofing, we want you to feel safe and secure in your home this winter season. If at any point you start to feel like your roof is no longer stable due to winter weather conditions, please give us a call at (203) 838-4545; we're always ready to help!

Commercial Services at Phil's Main Roofing

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

 

Did you know that our services aren't just limited to residential customers? Here at Phil's Main Roofing, it is our goal to provide quality roofing services to all who need it, which is why our availability extends to those who also own commercial property. After all, it's equally as important to make sure that commercial buildings are covered by a strong, stable roof as well.

To help property owners of all kinds, our commercial roofing services include:

• New construction
• Modified roofing
• Built up roofing
• Leak detection and repair
• Structural repair
• Gutters and downspouts

But that's certainly not all! In addition to repairing and replacing commercial roofs, we also offer preventative maintenance programs to help property owners actively prevent damage from destroying the structure of their building. For example, we offer a waterproofing service that prepares buildings to battle even the wettest weather conditions! To learn more about the roofing services we offer to the commercial sector, please click here.

Since 1948, we have been providing outstanding roofing services to those located in New York and Connecticut. In order to provide our customers with the highest quality work, all of our technicians are factory certified and are well versed in all aspects of roofing. In fact, our long standing reputation for quality workmanship has placed us on the list of contractors who receive automatic warranty release upon completion with several manufacturers.

If you're in need of a roofing contractor to help you with your commercial property this winter, please give us a call at (203) 838-4545!

To Fix Or Not To Fix: Dangers Of Putting Off A Leaky Roof

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

 

So you have a little bit of water seeping into your home through your roof - no big deal, right? Wrong! Although most homeowners look at a leaky roof as something that can be repaired at their leisure, the truth is that even the smallest of leaks can be seriously damaging to any home. Aside from the inconvenience of having a bucket collecting water in your way, leaks also pose a threat to your home's entire structure and can cause things to start crumbling before your very eyes.

To emphasize how imperative it is to have a leak repaired as soon as it is noticed, we've put together a list of some of the dangers that come with one. Check them out below:

1. Electrical Fires: When water has enough time to seep through your ceilings and walls, the chances that it will come into contact with your electrical wiring is high. Not only does this put you at risk for receiving a shock anytime you plug something in, but it also increases your home's chances of breaking out into a fire.
2. Mold: Insulation or any structural framing that has been exposed to water for too long is prime real estate for mold. Since mold is seriously hazardous to your health, this is one problem you want to avoid at all costs.
3. Structural Deterioration: Depending on the location of the leak, you might find that water lands on more than just your floor; it might also be hidden behind your walls. When too much water comes into contact with the wood framing that is holding up your home, the wood will start to become weak and unable to support your walls and ceiling.

At Phil's Main Roofing, we understand how serious a roof leak is, and now, we hope you do too! To keep your roof from caving in, be sure to get in touch with a professional roofer immediately following the detection of a leak. Although you can patch it up on your own at first, the only way to be sure your roof is in good standing is if a professional takes a look.

Are you located in Fairfield County or one of the surrounding areas and suspect that your roof is leaking? Contact us for help! Our leak detection and repair services are exactly what you need to keep a stable roof over your head. To schedule an appointment for service, please give us a call at (203) 838-4545 today!

We're Live On Social Media!

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

 

Do you have questions about your roof? Are you thinking of redoing your roof in the near future? Then connect with us on social media! Here at Phil's Main Roofing, we believe that property owners should be fully educated on the nature of roofing before making any decisions about how they'll alter their home or building. That's why we have made it our priority to push out the latest roofing news and tips as often as possible! A home improvement project is stressful enough as it is, but when you have the right information at your fingertips before hand, signing on the dotted line for your roof couldn't be any easier.

To find us on your favorite social media sites, follow the links below:

Facebook

Twitter

Google+

Flickr

Once you've connected with us on the above sites, be sure to subscribe to our blog using the subscribe feature found on the right hand side of our blog page! When you subscribe via email, you won't have to spend time seeking out the information you need on your own - it will come to you instead! If, on the other hand, you notice that we're missing a topic you need answers about, visit us on Facebook or Twitter to let us know!

Family owned and operated, Phil's Main Roofing has been serving Connecticut and New York for over 65 years. From new construction to structural repair, waterproofing, slate repair and more, our expert technicians can handle it all. For more information on our residential and commercial services, visit us on our website or contact us at (203) 838-4545 today!

5 Questions To Ask Your Roofing Contractor

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

 

Before hiring a contractor to help you with all of your roofing needs, it's important to research and interview several different candidates to see which one is right for the job. While you might find a few that seem to meet your expectations at first, once you really get to talking, your gut instinct may start to tell you otherwise.

Thanks to Angie's List, we've put together a list of questions you should ask potential roofing contractors before selecting one for the job. By having more information on these topics, you can be sure you've chosen a contractor that won't leave your roof in shambles.

Questions To Ask:

1. What is your company's full name and address?
2. Are you licensed and insured?
3. Do you use subcontractors for any part of the job? If so, who are they? Are they insured?
4. Who are your references?
5. What warranties are available to me?

Although several of these questions seem obvious, they are often overlooked by homeowners who are in a rush to get started. However, not knowing things as simple as the company's address can make the process of working with them much more than you bargained for. Once you have the answers to these questions from each of your possible contractors, you'll feel much more comfortable with your decision about who you're going to work with.

Are you currently looking for a contractor to help you with a roofing project now or in the near future? If you're located in Fairfield County or one of the surrounding areas, consider Phil's Main Roofing! Why? We are a fully licensed and insured roofing company whose quality workmanship has landed us a spot on the list of contractors who receive automatic warranty release upon completion with a handful of manufacturers. Furthermore, we only install the top roofing brands so that you can rest assured knowing your roof is built to last.

For more information on how we can help or to speak with us about scheduling your next roofing project, please visit us on our website or give us a call at (203) 838-4545 today.

How To Remove Icicles From Your Roof

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

 

Although many view them as beautiful winter wonders, icicles pose dangerous risks to both you and your home. Aside from the obvious fact that their sharp, pointy edges can harm you when they fall, the stress that they put on the structure of your home while hanging is a hidden concern that most homeowners are unaware of.

Formed as a result of melted ice or snow that comes into contact with freezing temperatures, icicles are extremely heavy and not a friend to your gutters. Additionally, icicles on your roof are a key indication that your home may fall victim to an ice dam. That's why it is so important to inspect your home regularly and take preventative measures to keep them from forming!

To maintain the integrity of your roof this winter, we've collected three ways that you can try to keep icicles from forming on your home; check them out below:

1. If your home is so equipped, turn on your attic fan and direct the airflow to where your gutters meet your roof during periods of freezing temperatures or wet weather conditions.
2. Apply heat tape to your gutters before freezing temperatures are expected. Heat tape works to melt snow and ice before it even has the chance to form into an icicle.
3. Using a roof rake, remove snow from your roof immediately following a snow storm. If there is no time for it to sit on your roof exposed to cold temperatures, there will be no time for an icicle to form! 

Should you not get to your roof in time and you start to notice glistening strands of ice hanging from your gutters, carefully scrape the ice off using a roof rake. However, when doing so, you must be aware of where you are standing so that you don't find yourself with an icicle hanging from you.

Family owned and operated for three generations, Phil's Main Roofing is a fully licensed and insured roofing company offering residential and commercial roofing services. Whether you need minor repairs or complete roof replacement, our technicians are fully prepared to handle any challenge that comes their way. For more information on how we can help, please visit us on our website or contact us at (203) 838-4545 today!

Snow Removal Safety Tips

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

 

Though snow isn't in the weather forecast just yet, it's that time of year again where it is to be expected. Since snow is a potentially damaging condition that could lead to costly home repairs, we recently provided our readers with a few of the best tips and tricks to remove it from their roof. However, we also want our readers to be kept safe in the process.

If you're a homeowner who plans to take snow removal into their own hands this winter, keep the following safety tips in mind as you go:

• Never work alone. Before approaching your roof, make sure you have a trusted partner to supervise from the ground. For added protection, you may even want to consider using a safety harness.
• Don't underestimate the snow's strength. It can be tempting to try and pull down as much snow as possible when using a roof rake, however, it's certainly not as light as it seems. Though it may take longer, remove only small sections of snow at a time.
• Just because it looks soft doesn't mean it is. Always keep an eye out for any ice that may have formed on the edge of your roof and take every step with caution if you find yourself working directly on the roof.
• Remember to breathe. Snow removal is tiring and places a lot of strain on the body, which is why it's important to take a break here and there. Even if it means returning to the task later, it's better to sit and breathe when your body says it's time than to push through and keep going - working on your roof while feeling winded is dangerous for both your safety and your health.

For more snow removal safety tips to help you through the season, click here.

At Phil's Main Roofing, we realize that winter weather conditions can cause the need for intricate roof repairs, and since working on your roof is especially dangerous in the winter, we don't want you to do them alone! To help you have a safe season, our roofing experts are available to provide repair and replacement services so that you don't have to place yourself in danger. To learn more about how we can help, please visit us on our website or contact us at (203) 838-4545 today!

Tips For Hanging Your Christmas Lights

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

 

If you haven't already, now is the time that you're probably preparing to illuminate your home with your favorite holiday lights and decorations. Although some people go the extra mile to decorate around their windows, doors and bushes, most commonly, Christmas lights are hung from the roof. That being said, it's important to take a few minutes to make sure you have the best strategies and tactics in mind to ensure that the quality of your roof is not harmed during this joyful season.

As you prepare your home for the holidays, be sure to keep the following in mind:

1. Test your lights before attaching them to the roof. Though small, Christmas lights are still powerful and can be a fire hazard when faulty.
2. Attach lights to your gutters or shingles using plastic clips specifically designed for this purpose rather than staple lights directly to your roof.
3. Always make sure your ladder is set firmly on the ground before hanging your lights. Should your ladder wobble, your first instinct would most likely be to grab onto your gutters - for your roof's sake, that's something you'd like to avoid!

For additional tips on hanging Christmas lights, click here.

Though Christmas lights seem harmless, the process of setting them up could result in damage to your roof or roof accessories, such as your gutters, when not done correctly. However, when you keep these tips in mind, you can ring in the spirit of Christmas without worry.

If you've already hung your Christmas lights and damage has ensued, contact Phil's Main Roofing for help! At Phil's Main Roofing, we are available to perform all kinds of repairs to keep your home in tip top shape all throughout the year. For more information on how we can help, visit us on our website or contact us at (203) 838-4545 today.

Common Winter Roofing Problems To Lookout For

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

With each season comes a new set of potentially damaging situations that all homeowners should be aware of. Though such circumstances are usually not one hundred percent preventable, being educated on what to look out for prior to the onset of damage is half the battle when it comes to keeping your home in a stable condition.

From a roofing standpoint, there are three common problems that tend to manifest as the winter season unfolds:

1. Ice dams
2. Icicles
3. Condensation

All a result of natural weather conditions, these three problems place a large strain on any roofing structure and should be addressed as soon as possible. Since winter is not an ideal time to have work done to your roof, you'll want to do as much as you can to keep these problems from becoming more serious than they need to be - and that starts with increasing your awareness.

This winter, we want you to have a secure roof over your head, especially when the most damaging weather conditions hit. That's why we're available for service all throughout the year! Don't let your roof battle the harsh weather conditions on its own; contact Phil's Main Roofing for help instead! For more information on how we can help you this winter season, visit us on our website or contact us at (203) 838-4545 today.

Home Winterization Checklist

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

Last month, we offered four tips to help you winterize your roof prior to the start of the season. However, as a homeowner, you mustn't forget about the rest of your home when preparing for the frosty temperatures that are forthcoming.

With this week's holiday bringing an extended weekend for many, now is the perfect time to make sure that your entire home has been winterized. If you're unsure about where to start or what areas need to be covered, check out this home winterization checklist that we've created for you to follow as you go:

• Swap out all window and door screens for storm windows and storm doors and check that the weatherstripping around windows and doors is still in tact.
• Place important tools and materials such as your snow blower. snow shovel and ice melt towards the front of your garage or shed for easy access.
• Clean and/or replace your furnace's air filter to ensure that your home is able to maintain a comfortable temperature.
• Remove or cover all air conditioners to keep the draft out and the warm air in.
• Turn off sprinklers and drain excess water from your outdoor pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting.

In order to have a successful winter, it's extremely important to spend time analyzing your home in its entirety to make sure it's all set to bear the brutal temperatures and weather conditions that the season brings. For a complete list of tips to help you winterize your home, please click here.

Phil's Main Roofing is a family owned and operated roofing company located in Norwalk, CT. Established in 1948, we have been providing commercial and residential roofing services to property owners in Connecticut and New York for over 65 years. If this winter season you find yourself battling roof damage that needs immediate attention, please give us a call at (203) 838-4545; our experienced team of roofs are always happy and ready to help!

How To Remove Snow From Your Roof

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

 

If this year's winter is anything like the last, or, if the recent snow fall in Buffalo is any indication of what we can expect, then it's best to start thinking about how you will handle large snow accumulations on your roof now. Although snow looks light and harmless to the human eye, anyone who has had to shovel excessive piles understands how heavy and damaging it can truly be. Especially when it comes to your roof, it's important to keep an eye on how much snow has piled up since too much can place damaging stress on the structure and cause it to cave in.

When it comes to snow removal, using a snow or a roof rake is always recommended. That's because using a standard snow shovel can cause even further damage to your roof as it scrapes away at the surface when chipping away any snow and ice. Furthermore, although it sounds obvious, never bring a snow blower up to the roof as this is both dangerous and not a feasible way to get the job done.

Although a snow or roof rake is highly recommended, you still need to be mindful of the amount of force you are using since in reality, anything that comes in contact with your roof could be harmful. However, by using this tool as opposed to others, you can help reduce your chances of having to deal with further damage later on.

Are you prepared to handle the snow as it comes this winter? If at any time you feel like this job isn't for you, contact Phil's Main Roofing for help! Our team of licensed roofers would be happy to assist and are fully equipped with the proper tools and techniques to remove the snow from your roof. For more information on how we can help, please give us a call at (203) 838-4545 today!

Dealing With The Aftermath: How To Assess Storm Damage

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

 

Whether it be rain, snow, hail or wind, storms are a major threat to our homes and are often one of the leading causes of roof damage. Even though there are many ways to try and prevent our roofs from being damaged, storms are often much stronger than they appear to be and unfortunately, hold more control over our homes than we do. That's why after every storm, regardless of its severity, we heavily recommend inspecting your roof for any signs of trouble. Not sure where to start? See below for three tips that can help you along the way:

1. Always start by looking for obvious signs of damage such as missing shingles. This form of damage can easily be spotted by walking around the perimeter of your home, and is very common regardless of the type of storm and its strength.
2. In addition to looking for missing shingles, keep an eye out for pieces of metal fascia or other roof accessories such as your gutters that may have come loose or undone.
3. Check your attic for any signs of water damage. Aside from the obvious leak, be on the lookout for any water stains that may be forming on your roof.

Speaking of storms, have you inspected your roof since yesterday's heavy rainfall? If the recent weather conditions have negatively affected your roof, contact Phil's Main Roofing for help! At Phi's Main Roofing, we specialize in storm, wind and hail damage as well as leak detection and repair in order to make sure your roof is stable and in good standing immediately following any storm.

For more information about our residential and commercial roofing services, or to schedule an appointment with one of our expert roofers, please visit us on our website or contact us at (203) 838-4545 today.

Home Improvement Tips You Need To Know

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

 

 

Whether you've just bought a home that needs repairs or you're looking to make improvements to a home that you've been in for quite some time, there are several things you must consider before diving into your project. In addition to the most obvious things you must look at, such as the size of your home and your budget, there are many other smaller, and perhaps less obvious factors that need to be analyzed before any decisions can be made.

If the potential for remodeling your home is in the near future, check out these three home improvement tips that every homeowner should know:

Value:
Always start by asking yourself, "what value will this project add to my home?" While some projects add more value than others, every change you make will have an impact on the value of your home. Especially if you plan on selling your home, we recommend leaning towards projects that will bring the value of your home up at the greatest rate.

Time of Year:
If you have a long list of changes that need to be made, start by seeing which ones are the most pressing at that time of year. For example, during the winter, it's best to attack any projects that include re-caulking or resealing your home so that you are prepared to battle the cold weather.

To DIY or to Not DIY:
Many homeowners often feel like they can tackle parts of their home improvement project on their own. However, even when it seems doable, the act of actually completing the project is often harder than it looks. If you have any doubt that difficulties may arise, always contact a professional contractor for help.

For a complete list of home improvement tips you need to know, click here.

Is roof repair or replacement on your list of things you must complete this year? Contact Phil's Main Roofing for help today! At Phil's Main Roofing, we offer comprehensive residential roofing services to help you with all of your roofing needs. For more information on how we can help, please visit us on our website or contact us at (203) 838-4545 today!

How To Prevent Ice Dams From Forming On Your Roof

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

 

Throughout the winter season, one of the most troublesome problems that can occur on a roof is the formation of an ice dam. By nature, ice dams are the result of an ice build up on your roof, and are a leading cause of water damage in the home or building whose roof possesses one. Since the potential for damage is so high when ice dams are present, taking preventative measures to stop them from forming is essential.

Thanks to This Old House, we've uncovered three steps you must take in order to prevent an ice dam from forming on your roof this winter; see below.

1. Ventilate: Having eaves and ridges that are properly ventilated is one of the best ways to stop ice dams from forming. Since you need the roof to be the same temperature as the eaves, it is important to make sure that the right kind of ventilation system is installed.

2. Insulate: Before the start of the season, make sure that your attic is thoroughly insulated, especially on the floor. Doing so will help keep the heat in your home where it is needed and will prevent it from seeping through your soffit.

3. Cover the Hatch: Attic hatches or house fans that are not properly covered are one of the most common places where heat escapes from the home. Similar to the process of insulating, make sure your hatch is covered with adequate materials so that heat is kept inside.

Here at Phil's Main Roofing, we want you to be as prepared as possible for the upcoming winter weather. That's why we offer a variety of preventive maintenance programs to help you get through every season! For more information on how we can help you prepare, please give us a call at (203) 838-4545 today!

Caring For Your Flat Roof During The Winter

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

 

In a previous blog, we introduced you to some of the best techniques for winterizing your roof. However, it is important to note that the preventive maintenance programs for flat roofs differ slightly from pitched roofs when it comes to the winter season. Since flat roofs do not have the same functionality that pitched roofs have when it comes to draining water and shedding debris, it is easier for ice, snow and other winter weather to build up over the course of the season. That's why it is so important to prepare a flat roof for the change in season in advance! The following are three simple tips that we recommend following as you start to prepare:

1. Sweep any remaining fall debris off of your roof. When debris is left over from the previous season, it makes it more difficult to clean in the winter and can encourage water to pool up when the wet winter weather sets in.
2. Cut back any branches that hang over your roof before they have the chance to fall. In addition to damaging your roof on their own, fallen limbs can also lead to clogged drain spouts as they too encourage water to pool up when not removed.
3. Check your roof for any holes or trouble spots that may be left over from earlier in the year. While you do so, check to see if there is already standing water on your roof so that you can repair damaged or low areas of your roof now.

Does your home possess a flat roof that needs to be serviced before the start of the season? Contact Phil's Main Roofing for help today! At Phil's Main Roofing, we offer repair and preventive maintenance programs to commercial and residential customers to help them maintain the integrity of their roof all year long. For more information or to schedule an appointment for service, visit us on our website or contact us at (203) 838-4545.

Residential Services at Phil's Main Roofing

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

For any homeowner, having a stable roof over their head is one of their top concerns. After all, it is the primary component of a home that protects you and your belongings from the outdoor elements. Since a roof plays such an important role in maintaining the comfort of your home, it's essential that you pay close attention to any warning signs that might suggest damage is on the way. Furthermore, in order to prevent such damage from occurring, it is extremely important that you perform seasonal maintenance on your roof and check up on it regularly to make sure that every nut and bolt is where it needs to be.

But what happens when damage does occur? Or, what if performing seasonal maintenance proves to be a much more difficult task than anticipated? This is where we come in! At Phil's Main Roofing, we specialize in residential roofing. That means we have the strategies and experience needed to assist with all of your roofing concerns! From new construction and re-roofing to structural repair, leak detection and more, we do it all. See below for a list of some of our residential services:

• Tear Off and Replacement
• Roof Drainage
• Resealing - Exterior Silicone
• Waterproofing
• Cleaning and Maintenance Programs

And that's not all! Click here for a complete list of the residential services we offer at Phil's Main Roofing.

If you're a homeowner in Connecticut or New York and are having trouble with your roof, please give us a call at (203) 838-4545 today!

How to Winterize Your Roof

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

Although it is only the end of October and it seems like you just prepared your home for the change from summer to fall, the cold winter weather is on its way and will be here for good before you know it. That means it’s time to start winterizing your home to make sure that you’re all set to face the cold temperatures that lie ahead!

When it comes to your roof, it’s especially important to prepare for winter early since low to freezing temperatures and icy weather conditions make it very difficult to do roof work during the winter months. See below for a few things you should be doing now to begin winterizing your roof: 

1.    Reapply caulking at any seams where cracks or leaks are evident.

2.    Check to make sure your attic is thoroughly insulated and if not, add insulation wherever it is needed.

3.    Inspect your flashing for any signs of wear and tear from the previous season.

4.    Clean out your gutters to make sure they are free of leaves and other debris that may have built up over the past several weeks.

If while you perform this routine maintenance you notice any damage to your roof, or if you’d like assistance with winterizing your roof, contact Phil’s Main Roofing today! At Phil’s Main Roofing, we specialize in roof repair and replacement for both commercial and residential customers and are also available to help with cleaning and preventive maintenance to make sure your roof is kept in good shape. For more information on how we can help, please visit us at www.philsmainroofing.com or give us a call at (203) 838-4545 today.