"It's a pretty decent system, I think. They send you the pieces and you install them yourself, which is pretty easy. The only real problem I have is that one sensor is too far away from the panel...or there's some interference, and they haven't been able to fix that. It's an interior door, so it's not the end of the world, just a little annoying. Their customer service is pretty good though. Nice, smart customer service people on the other end, very polite and helpful."
If your roof has storm damage, there will be some telltale signs. These include missing, loose, or damaged shingles. You may notice cracks or dents on the metal parts of your roof, like flashing, gutters, or metal panels. Water leaks are another big indicator. So are visible signs of impact. Rather than climb up on your roof to check, hire a professional to inspect the area safely.
It’s possible that installing solar panels can lead to mold on the roof. The panels themselves are not the issue. Problems caused by improper installation—such as roof leaks and mounts that aren’t sealed properly—can cause mold. Another potential cause of mold is debris accumulation under panels, which can trap moisture. If you live somewhere with extreme snow, rain, or hail, your home could be more prone to mold.
A chimney cap typically lasts between three and 25 years. This wide range is due to several variables, including the material it's made from, the local climate, and how frequently you use your fireplace. Living in an area with severe weather can shorten its lifespan. Regular inspections, maintenance, and minor repairs as needed can help your chimney cap last as long as possible.
It’s a good idea to have a roof inspection once every two or three years to catch issues early and avoid major property damage. However, if you recently had a new roof installed, you can safely wait around five to ten years before scheduling an inspection, especially since your workmanship warranty should last about that long. You might also want to schedule more frequent or one-off roof inspections if you are buying or selling a home, if you have issues with leaks or visible damage, or if your homeowner’s insurance company requires an updated inspection.
It’s possible to install your chimney cap in some areas, but it’s usually better to hire a professional. Before you attempt a DIY chimney cap installation, check to see if your local building department requires a permit. If it does, you should hire a professional to pull the permit and complete the work for you. Even if you don’t need a permit, getting up on your roof is dangerous, especially if you have an aggressive pitch or slippery roof material, like metal. Hiring a chimney professional guarantees the job is done correctly and keeps you safe from injury.
The Wrangell, AK homeowners’ guide to chimney inspection services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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