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Yes, shingles should overhang the drip edge, typically between 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch. An overhang shorter than 1/2-inch can allow wind-driven rain to get under the shingles and damage the roof deck or fascia. Conversely, an overhang longer than 3/4-inch increases the risk of shingles getting caught by strong winds, which can lead to roof uplift. Always check your local building code for exact overhang requirements in your area.

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.

You may become so frustrated with the look of moss on your roof that you contemplate whether to clean or replace your roof. Fortunately, you don’t have to go as far as replacing it. After cleaning the moss, you can use a chemical solution to keep it away. For further protection, trim branches that overhang the roof, as fallen seed pods and leaves on the roof allow moisture to collect, encouraging moss growth. Consider adding zinc-coated flashing to the roof, too. As rain washes across the zinc, it leaves zinc particles behind that inhibit moss growth.

Yes, removing a chimney is a difficult and major undertaking. Chimneys often provide structural support to a home, so if it's a load-bearing structure, you'll need to take extra precautions to maintain your home's integrity. A project of this complexity typically requires a structural engineer, a masonry contractor, and a demolition crew. The removal process may involve taking the chimney out brick by brick from inside the walls. The cost for chimney removal can range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the job's complexity. Due to the difficulty and cost, some homeowners opt to remove the fireplace and seal the chimney at the top and bottom, sometimes also removing the visible exterior portion at the roofline.