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Properly installed chimney flashing can last anywhere from 15 to 50 years. However, flashing generally only needs to be replaced when it is damaged, corroded, or no longer creates a watertight seal. Several factors influence its longevity, including the material type, quality of installation, and local climate. For example, copper flashing tends to last longer than galvanized steel. Large storms and extreme weather can also damage flashing, potentially requiring earlier replacement. To ensure its longevity, it is recommended to have your chimney and roof inspected annually. A professional can assess the flashing's condition and recommend any necessary repairs.

While you can stay at home during a roof replacement, you probably won’t want to, as it’ll be very noisy. The area around your home will also be messy, as roofers will be discarding old roof material and storing their equipment on the ground.

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.

Replacing older chimneys or fireplaces, like wood-burning stoves, with something more eco-friendly can actually increase the value of your home. Some homeowners opt to remove chimneys as they pursue LEED certification, which may also increase the value of your home. But in general, many potential buyers actually look for operational fireplaces in homes, so removing a chimney and fireplace could decrease your home’s value by up to $5,000.