Roof Leaking Around Vent Boot

Roof vent pipes are common areas for roof leaks.

Roof leaking around vent boot.

If any of these issues are present water will be able to enter your roof along the pipe. Sun exposure and heat especially during the summer can cause the rubber boot to crack creating the space for water to leak in. Recaulk the corner flashing if any areas have hardened caulk. Roof vent pipes from plumbing or exhaust vents penetrate the roof and are usually sealed using a collar style flashing made out of a flexible material like epdm rubber or flexible pvc.

Rusty and cracked collars around the vent pipe can allow rainwater to pool and eventually drip into. A plumbing vent pipe is a common culprit for leaks. When this happens the water can seep into the house along the pipe. Often the rubber boot on the vent will be worn or torn the metal plastic base will have a crack or broken seam or a few nails will be loose or missing.

Dig out any cracked or dry caulking that isn t properly sealing adjoining surfaces and replace with silicone caulk. Leakage due to improper installation of the vent pipe boot would present as water stains dark spots and or wet areas on the under side of the roof sheeting. Other causes of leaking roof vent are including broken seams on the metal base loosen nails and rusty metal collars around the vent pipe. Remove debris make sure your roof valleys are clear of debris re shingle valleys valleys may need to be reshingled with new ice and water shield put in place.

If your shingles are still in relatively good condition chances are that water seeps around a plumbing vent that goes through the roof. Metal flashing and vent boots work together to prevent water. A vent pipe boot can leak either from improper installation or more likely from a split in the rubber where it fits around the pipe. Replace any missing or rotted siding above the step flashing on dormers.