Get matched with top chimney cap pros in Kapaa, HI

Yes, you should cap unused chimneys to prevent damage caused by invasive critters, downdrafts, and moisture build-up. This method of capping a locked-off chimney will properly secure the structure and help maintain its integrity for years to come. Consult a chimney professional about the best type of chimney or flue cap to add to your chimney.

You should plan on waiting as long as it takes for the roof deck to dry out completely if it gets wet. In most cases, this will take about 24 hours, but it could take longer if you have shading on your roof or cloudy weather after the rainfall that prevents the sun from drying the material.

Roof underlayment usually lasts as long as the roofing material that covers it, as it’s not directly exposed to the elements. In most cases, roofing companies will replace the underlayment each time they install a new roof. In some cases, particularly with slate, clay, or certain metal roofs that can last 50 to 100 years, your underlayment may require replacement within that timeframe, especially if you start to notice roof leaks.

The best material to sheath a roof will depend on your budget and if you require the strength of more robust materials. For most homes, the added strength is unnecessary, and oriented strand board, or OSB, makes sense. It’s inexpensive and robust enough for most roof types. Another popular but slightly more expensive option is plywood.