D & M Best Homes & Construction Blog

Don’t Ignore these Indications that it’s Time to Replace Your Home’s Siding

D&M Best Homes & Construction • 25 June 2025
A large house with a screened in porch and a large deck

Your home’s siding serves as a protective barrier against the elements while also contributing to curb appeal. Over time, siding can become worn or damaged, leading to structural issues and a decline in your home’s appearance. Knowing when to replace your siding can prevent costly repairs and help maintain your home’s value. At D&M Best Homes & Construction, we provide expert siding replacement in the greater Portland, CT area. Here are four signs that it might be time to invest in new siding.


Warping or Cracks

Visible damage such as cracks, warping, or holes in your siding is a clear indication that it's no longer doing its job. These issues can allow water to seep behind the panels, leading to mold growth, rot, or pest infestations. Even small cracks can expand over time, so it’s important not to overlook them. Damaged siding looks unattractive and can compromise the structural integrity of your home.


Mold, Mildew, or Rot

The presence of mold, mildew, or rot on or behind your siding is a red flag that moisture is infiltrating your home’s exterior. This can be particularly concerning, as mold and rot often develop out of sight and may only be discovered once significant spread has occurred. If your siding feels soft, has a musty odor, or you see signs of fungus, it’s time to consider replacement before the problem spreads.


Faded/Peeling Paint

If your siding is severely faded or the paint is peeling off despite recent maintenance, it may be a sign that the materials have reached the end of their lifespan. Most siding is designed to hold color for years, so a constant need to repaint could point to deeper issues. Fading can also signal that the protective coating is wearing down.


Higher Energy Bills

An unexpected spike in your heating or cooling costs could be linked to failing siding. When siding deteriorates, it may allow drafts to enter the home, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain a consistent temperature. If you’ve ruled out other causes like window or roof issues, your siding could be to blame. Upgrading to modern, energy-efficient siding can help improve insulation and reduce your utility bills.


Siding Replacement in Portland, CT

For siding replacement in Portland, CT and the surrounding area, contact D&M Best Homes & Construction at 860-266-5290. Feel free to give us a call to ask for a local siding installation estimate!

4 Reasons that Roof Leaks Should Be Fixed ASAP

by D&M Best Homes & Construction • 23 May 2025
When it comes to home maintenance, few problems can escalate as quickly as a leaking roof. What might seem like a minor drip can rapidly lead to serious and costly damage. Whether the leak is due to aging shingles, storm damage, or a flashing failure, it’s important to act quickly. At D&M Best Homes & Construction, we provide expert roof leak repair in the greater Portland, CT area. Here are four important reasons why fixing roof leaks as soon as possible is crucial. Prevents Structural Damage A leaking roof doesn’t just affect the surface—it can compromise the structure of your home. Water intrusion can weaken wood framing, rot support beams, and damage ceiling joists. Over time, the structural integrity of your home can be at risk, leading to sagging roofs or even partial collapses. Addressing a leak right away helps preserve the strength and stability of your house. Protects Against Mold and Mildew Moisture that seeps into your home creates the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Once mold begins to grow, it can spread quickly through walls, insulation, and HVAC systems. Not only does this pose health risks, especially for those with respiratory issues or allergies, but it can also be expensive to remove. Early leak repairs reduce the chance of mold taking hold and protect your indoor air quality. Prevents Interior Damage Roof leaks can lead to significant interior problems, including stained ceilings, peeling paint, and warped drywall. Water can also damage flooring, furniture, and electronics if the leak becomes severe. The longer the leak is left unaddressed, the more extensive the interior damage becomes. Fixing the problem promptly helps avoid the cost of repairing or replacing your belongings. Improves Energy-Efficiency A compromised roof often allows air to escape, making your home less energy-efficient. Moisture can also damage insulation, reducing its effectiveness. This leads to higher heating and cooling bills as your HVAC system works harder to maintain a consistent temperature. By sealing roof leaks promptly, you can improve insulation performance and reduce your energy costs. Roof Repair in Portland, CT For roof repair in Portland, CT and the surrounding area, contact D&M Best Homes & Construction at  860-266-5290  . Feel free to give us a call to ask for a local roofing estimate!

What are the advantages of adding skylights to my home?

by D&M Best Homes & Construction • 25 April 2025
Skylights are a stylish and functional addition to the home, offering more than just an aesthetic upgrade. These overhead windows can transform the way light enters your living space, making your home feel more energizing. At D&M Best Homes & Construction, we provide expert skylight installation in the greater Portland, CT area. Here are four reasons why adding skylights can be a smart improvement to your home. Increased Natural Light One of the most noticeable benefits of skylights is the abundance of natural light they provide. Skylights allow sunlight to stream directly into the room from above. This can make any space feel brighter, more open, and more welcoming. Rooms that typically receive little sunlight—such as bathrooms, hallways, or interior kitchens—can be transformed with the addition of a skylight. Improved Energy-Efficiency Skylights can also help reduce your reliance on artificial lighting and temperature control systems. By letting in natural sunlight during the day, you can cut down on the need to keep lights on. Ventilating skylights can also help reduce the need for air conditioning by releasing hot air that rises to the ceiling, keeping your home cooler in the warmer months. These energy-saving advantages can lead to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental footprint. Boosted Mood and Well-Being Exposure to natural light has been shown to have a positive effect on mental and physical health. It helps regulate circadian rhythms, which can improve sleep patterns and overall mood. Skylights allow for more consistent exposure to daylight, even when you’re indoors. This added light can help alleviate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and enhance your overall sense of well-being, especially during darker winter months. Increased Home Value Adding skylights can also be a valuable investment in your home’s resale potential. Homebuyers often appreciate unique features that enhance both style and functionality. Skylights can make spaces feel more modern, bright, and inviting. When installed properly, they demonstrate thoughtful design and add to the overall appeal and value of your property. Skylight Installation in Portland, CT For skylight installation in Portland, CT and the surrounding area, contact D&M Best Homes & Construction at  860-266-5290  . Feel free to give us a call to ask for a local skylight installation estimate!

5 Types of Water Damage Caused by Leaking Gutters

by D&M Best Homes & Construction • 27 March 2025
Leaking gutters may seem like a minor issue, but over time, they can cause significant water damage to your home and property. At D&M Best Homes & Construction, we specialize in gutter repair and installation to help residents in Portland, CT, protect their homes from costly damage. Here are five common types of water damage that can result from faulty gutters. Foundation Issues When gutters leak or overflow, water can pool around the base of your home, seeping into the soil and weakening the foundation. Over time, this can lead to cracks, shifting, or even structural instability. Properly functioning gutters direct rainwater away from your home, preventing these serious foundation problems. Roof Damage Gutters are designed to channel rainwater off the roof and away from your home. When they become clogged or start leaking, water can back up under the roofing materials, leading to rot, mold growth, and shingle deterioration. This not only shortens the lifespan of your roof but can also cause interior leaks and costly repairs. Siding & Exterior Wall Damage Water spilling over the sides of clogged or damaged gutters can run down the exterior walls of your home, leading to staining, warping, and mold growth. Over time, prolonged exposure to excess moisture can cause wood siding to rot and weaken, while stucco and brick can develop cracks and deterioration. Basement Flooding Excess water around your home’s perimeter can eventually seep into the basement, causing flooding, mold growth, and structural damage. A properly working gutter system prevents excess water from saturating the ground and finding its way into your basement. Landscaping Issues Leaking gutters can erode soil, wash away mulch, and damage plants and flower beds around your home. Standing water can also create the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests. Properly maintained gutters help preserve your landscaping and keep your yard looking its best. If you’ve noticed signs of leaking gutters, don’t wait for water damage to worsen. Call D&M Best Homes & Construction at  860-266-5290  to request a quote for the cost of gutter repair in Portland, CT or any nearby town. Our local gutter contractors offer a variety of gutter services, including gutter replacement, gutter guard installation and gutter maintenance in Connecticut. We look forward to assisting you tackle your next home improvement project.