People have always concerned themselves with having a "roof over their head" because of climatic conditions such as rain, snow, eind, etc. The type of roof has been dictated by the availability of materials. In warm climates, a thatched roof was adequate to allow the water to run off. Wood shakes used during colonial days were of decay resistant cypress and oak that was readily available. Protection from the elements, durability, and fire resistance were concerns.

The roof's design and material are aspects of the architectural beauty of any structure. Today, technology has given us many types of materials such as asphalt roofing, clay tiles, asbestos cement, and a host of single ply membranes. Consider style, color, fire and wind resistance, economy, weight, and life expectancy when choosing roof materials.

Roofing is measured in "squares". A square covers 100 square feet. Various types of roofing weight different amounts per square. Some are so heavy the structure must be designed for them. Certain types are suitable for only particular pitches. Pitch or slope is the steepness of the roof stated as the amount of rise in 12 feet (i.e. 4 in 12, 8 in 12, even 14 in 12, etc.)

The roof protects the structure from the weather. With a sound roof, the structural components may last a long time. If the roof leaks, the structure begins to deteriorate rapidly.

Inspect the attic and roofing in the spring. It is best to do this during a heavy rain looking for evidence of water infiltration, especially wherever something protrudes through the roof. Check for wet insulation, evidence of bird or rodent infestation, hornets, termites and/or woodborers, etc. in the attic. This gives you an opportunity to make repairs during the mild months.

Roofing starts to age the day it is installed. Weather wears the material slowly, but violent weather can destroy even a new roof. Sunlight destroys some types of roofing with heat and ultraviolet light. Water and cold are also harmful. Water and cold are also harmful. Water in warm weather cause decay and in cold weather freezes in cracks and crevices enlarging them. Water also rusts iron and steel materials.

Chimney flashings leak at one time or another. Most chimneys are independent structures standing beside the house. Frame houses and masonry chimneys often respond (move) differently with changes in the weather and temperature. These different movements mean the flashing is constantly expanding and contracting and prone to leak.

Central heating systems as we know them today have become the accepted norm, but not so long ago that was not true. Fireplaces have been in use a long time and are still a source of joy and danger. As with electrical system, the heating system can add to your comfort and pleasure, but there is danger also. Someone dies of carbon monoxide nearly every month in this country. Any fired heating system or appliance and any fireplace can be a source of carbon monoxide. As we make our houses tighter and more energy efficient, the level of carbon monoxide and the likelihood of injury may increase.

Aging flues also pose a threat. It is expensive to rebuild or reline older flues and many are in use without proper lining. Installing new high efficiency equipment into old, worn, unlined or damaged flues can be dangerous.

Maintain your heating equipment and fireplaces in good working order. Yearly maintenance inspection contracts with reputable heating contractors is a good investment. Oil fired systems must be cleaned and tuned annually and gas systems at least every two years. Even heat pumps benefit. Some manufacturers claim that a properly maintained heat pump will operate 30% more efficiently and last 50% longer. The fee for the service is small and probably a good investment even if the claims are exaggerated. Don't ignore your flues. Have them cleaned and inspected regularly by a reputable chimney sweep and keep them in good repair.