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Yes, you should seal and cap an unused chimney to protect it from damage. Sealing the structure helps prevent moisture damage, which can lead to issues like cracks, spalling, efflorescence, and damaged mortar joints. Capping the chimney is also crucial to prevent blockages, damage from invasive critters, and downdrafts, while still allowing for proper air ventilation to manage moisture. For the best results, consult a chimney professional to select the right type of chimney or flue cap for your home. It's also wise to continue with annual chimney inspections to maintain the structure's integrity.

No, there’s no specific building code that requires a roof overhang. However, installing your roof with the standard 2-inch overhang is good practice, as it helps direct runoff away from your fascia boards and roof decking and into your gutters. Some overhang is especially important in areas that see heavy rainfall and snowfall, as the risk of water getting under the roofing material and causing water damage is much higher.

A roof's ability to handle snow depends on its strength and the snow's weight, as wet snow is much heavier than dry, fluffy snow. While designs in snowy regions often allow for 35 to 50 pounds per square foot, a general guideline is that a typical roof can withstand about four feet of fresh snow, two feet of packed snow, or just one inch of ice. Factors like the roof's age, slope, and support structure also affect its capacity; newer, sloped roofs generally hold more weight than older, flat ones. Ice and ice dams add significant, dangerous weight. Because capacity varies, it is best to contact a professional roofing contractor or the original builder to determine the maximum snow load for your specific home.

Architectural shingles and impact-resistant shingles aren’t mutually exclusive, which means some architectural shingles are impact-resistant shingles. Architectural shingles are thicker and more durable than standard 3-tab shingles, and they become even stronger when they also have high impact resistance and wind resistance ratings. The most durable shingles for areas with extreme weather are architectural or luxury shingles that have a Class-4 impact resistance and a Class-H wind resistance that can stand up to winds reaching 150 mph.