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Sometimes chimney caps blow off during storms or fall off after rusting away. While this typically won’t cause structural damage, failing to replace a chimney cap can. A chimney cap prevents moisture, animals, and debris from entering your chimney, all of which can cause serious problems, such as damage to the masonry or blockages in the flue.

Fall is generally considered the best time of year for roof repairs. The weather is temperate and typically drier, which makes for safer working conditions and fewer delays. The days are also still long enough to complete the work.

Spring is another good option and is a popular time for repairs to fix damage from winter storms. However, frequent rainfall can slow down progress. Spring may be a less busy season for roofers than fall.

Summer can also work for roof repairs, but extreme heat can make asphalt shingles too soft and difficult to work with.

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.

In most cases, yes, you should fix hail damage to your roof. For asphalt roofs that experience hail damage, the shingles can crack and tear from impact, potentially exposing the underlayment and other building material underneath to water and pests. You might save an average of $1,100 by neglecting repairs, but water damage can cost significantly more. Even on a metal roof, where penetration isn’t a concern, the dents hail can leave behind can detract from your curb appeal, potentially making your home less valuable.