Get matched with top roofers in Hallam, PA

It’s possible to install your chimney cap in some areas, but it’s usually better to hire a professional. Before you attempt a DIY chimney cap installation, check to see if your local building department requires a permit. If it does, you should hire a professional to pull the permit and complete the work for you. Even if you don’t need a permit, getting up on your roof is dangerous, especially if you have an aggressive pitch or slippery roof material, like metal. Hiring a chimney professional guarantees the job is done correctly and keeps you safe from injury.

Generally, roof flashing is installed under the shingles to create a watertight seal and prevent moisture from seeping in and causing damage. However, the exact placement can depend on the type of flashing. For instance, with step flashing, the shingles and flashing overlap each other, meaning the flashing is technically both over and under the shingles. Flashing also typically goes beneath the house siding and is often not visible from the ground.

Roofing estimates and inspections are not the same thing. Roofing inspections (whether done with a drone or by the traditional method) help you find any damage or defects on a roof. You will pay a set fee for a roofing inspection and use it to get certification or to determine whether repair or replacement is necessary. Beware of unsolicited contractors coming to your home and offering a so-called free roof inspection—these are often scams.

Roofing estimates, on the other hand, are typically free and offered by a roofing company hoping to earn your business. Some roofing estimates are performed with drones, while other companies will still opt to send people up onto the roof. Either way, the estimate is for roof repair or replacement costs the company wants you to hire them for.

The best material for your shed roof depends on your budget and personal preferences. For instance, if you’re looking for the most cost-effective option, rolled roofing is your best bet. Just be aware that it only lasts for five to eight years. If you prefer something with a longer life span (and you’re willing to pay for that durability), consider slate shingles, which can last for hundreds of years.