Dear Jim: I plan to use my fireplace more to lower my utility bills. I see some deteriorated spots on the outside of the chimney and it has not been cleaned recently. What type of maintenance ...

Ask the Carpenter’s Rob Robillard talks about chimney flashing, driveway stains, and more. Get more home improvement advice at realestate.boston.com.

Roof leaks plague countless homeowners each year. Talk to experienced roofers, and they’ll tell you the vast majority of leaks happen at flashings. A roof flashing is a transitional material.… ...