"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."
The best way to know if your roof can support solar panels is to hire a structural engineer. They’ll look at your roof and approve the design of your solar panel system or suggest changes. The best roofing for solar panels is made from strong materials like asphalt shingles and metal, but tile and gravel will work. Softer materials like thatch or temporary structures are not a good fit.
To ensure optimal roof health,it’s a good idea to get an inspection once a year. However, certain factors may require more frequent checks. If your area experiences severe weather conditions such as hailstorms, high winds, or heavy snowfall, it is advisable to inspect your roof afterward. Older roofs are more susceptible to wear and tear, so if your roof is approaching its expected lifespan or has yet to be inspected in several years, it’s a good idea to schedule a roof inspection or estimate.
You shouldn’t put a new roof underlayment over an old one for a few reasons. Old felt must be removed in order to assess the condition of your roof decking, such as rotting wood or other structural issues. Also, if your roofer doesn't install a fresh layer of felt as is required by shingle manufacturers, your warranty may be voided. Finally, old underlayment removal is often included in the cost of roof repair or replacement, so there's no real benefit to leaving it on before installing a new layer.
Walking on an asbestos roof can pose a risk. Asbestos roofing materials can become brittle over time, increasing the chances of them breaking or releasing fibers when stepped on. Additionally, walking on an asbestos roof without proper precautions can cause further damage to the material. If possible, avoid touching an asbestos roof in any way and consult with a professional about removing and replacing the roof.
Hail damage on a roof varies depending on the roofing material. On asphalt shingles, it can appear as dark or white chalky circles where granules have been knocked off, or as cracks, dents, or bruises. For wood shingles, hail may cause the wood to split and crack. On metal roofs, hail damage is often easier to spot and looks like dings and dents. The age and condition of your roof can also affect the appearance of the damage. Regardless of what you see, it's recommended to have a professional inspect your roof after a major storm to fully assess the extent of the damage.
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.
Chimney liners are important for fire safety and energy efficiency in your home. Learn how much chimney liners cost based on type, size, material, and other factors.
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Stay on top of your chimney safety and maintenance with our chimney inspection checklist featuring expert tips on how to work with an inspector near you.
If you want to be sure your chimney is working properly, you’ll need a professional inspection. So who does chimney inspections? We’ve got all the info.
