Get matched with top chimney cap pros in Newton, KS

Though cedar shakes often get confused with shingles, there are a few key differences between wood shakes and wood shingles. For one, cedar shingle prices are lower, although shingles are less durable than wood shakes. Cedar shakes are thicker than shingles (shingles range from about 3/8 to 1/2 inches thick, compared to 1/2 to 3/4 inches thick for shakes). Wood shakes are handmade, while shingles are usually machine-made. Also, wood shakes work better on steeper roofs than shingles do. While the cost of cedar shingles is more budget-friendly, there are many great reasons to choose shakes.

Furring strips reduce heat transfer to your home. Unlike materials like wood roof shakes, metal panels have a high heat conductivity and will readily pass heat to the materials underneath. If that material is your roof deck, you’ll notice hotter temperatures in your living space, especially during the summer. Furring strips add a layer of air insulation to reduce that heat transfer.

A chimney cap costs about $300 on average. The prices range from about $75 to $1,000, depending on the material, size, any repairs needed, and if your chimney cap requires custom fabrication. Chimney caps are usually made from galvanized steel, copper, or stainless steel. Additional costs may include hiring a chimney sweep to clean the chimney before a cap is installed. 

It’s possible for a roofing estimate to change after the initial assessment, but in most cases, it shouldn’t. There’s always the risk that something unexpected will happen that causes prices to go up, like discontinued materials or your roofer discovering previously hidden damage to your decking when ripping off the old roof. However, experienced roofers should account for these circumstances in their initial estimates. Roofing contracts are binding, so always check your contract for language about how and why your numbers could change.