Penetrations can include plumbing and roof vents chimneys dormers or anything else that projects through the roof.
Fixing a leaky roof vent pipe.
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.
When you have a leak you don t have that protection.
For example in a lot of cases it could be from around the roof vent pipes.
This is not to say that it s not going to be a problem.
If you have attic access the easiest way to track down a leak is to go up there with a flashlight and look for the evidence.
Steps for fixing a leaking rooftop vent pipe.
Leaking roof vent pipe.
Roof vent pipes are common areas for roof leaks.
You re in luck if you re able to pinpoint the source.
Purchase the necessary supplies even if your roof is functioning the way it should be it s a good idea to keep vent pipe flashing in your home.
Look for cracks in the base of flexible rubber flashing or broken seams in metal varieties of vent pipe flashing the rubber gasket that surrounds the vent pipe could be rotted.
The roof vent pipe is installed cut through the roof and around the pipe attached to the roof is surrounded with rubber boot as insulation for the gap between the pipe and roof.
Dealing with a leak around the roof vent pipes can be a huge problem as well.
They can be several feet above the leak or to the right or left of it.
Follow these steps if you need to do repairs.
Roof leaks around vent pipes is relatively common.
This is especially true if you can t seem to pinpoint the source of the leak.
Cut away the old caulk from around the vent pipe.
Use a pocketknife to scrape rough edges and sharp points from upper end of plastic vent pipe.
Luckily materials like vent pipe flashing can be used if you need to repair a roof.
Fix a leaky roof vent pipe with a oatey rubber gasket.
Use the knife blade to scrape the pipe clean and smooth.
When this happens vents can spring leaks.
Apply a thick bead of lap seal caulk around the seam between the vent pipe and old rubber gasket.
If left unchecked the water that seeps in can eventually cause mold and structural damage to your home.