A roof leak never starts as a major problem, but imagine if water can create the Grand Canyon, what kind of damage it can do your roof, and eventually other areas of your home. Leaks occur most commonly where pipes, vents, skylights, and chimneys break through the surface of the roofing material.
If you suspect you have a leak in your roof, make sure you to examine your roof vent pipe
What is a Roof Vent Pipe?
The roof vent pipe is a pipe attached to drain lines that run through the roof of your home. Your home has several vent pipes, and each one should be maintained to prevent leaks.
Vent pipes allow gases to safely exit your home, helping maintain the pressure and venting system. The gases originate in bathrooms and kitchens, travel up through the venting pipe, and exit the home where the pipe empties above the roof. With these plumbing vents, the rubber gasket that surrounds the pipe weathers and deteriorates, which can lead to leaks.
At A Clark Roofing and Siding LP, we understand that your Alberta roof is your home’s first defense against harsh weather, and that avoiding a minor problem now can lead to leaks, rot, and other serious damages. Your roof vent pipe is an important part of your roofing system, as a properly ventilated roof creates a balance between air intake and air exhaust. Without proper attic ventilation, numerous problems can arise and the lifetime of your roof may be significantly shortened. Hence, maintaining a healthy vent system is critical to your roof’s health.
Signs of a Damaged Roof Vent
Occasionally, vent pipe leaks can occur at the collar surrounding the base of the vent pipe. These collars consist of a metal base, generally made out of aluminum, and a rubber boot integrated into the top of the collar. The collar’s job is to create a tight seal, keeping rainwater and debris from getting into your attic. Rusty and cracked vent pipe collars around their base allow the water to first pool around, and then seep through the interior walls of your home.
If you have a damaged vent pipe, you’ll see leaking in your home. It will likely first be noticeable in the attic, but if left unrepaired, you will start to see water stains on ceilings, or water leaking into your home.
What Causes Leaky Roof Vents
- Rubber boot: Over time, through exposure to the sun and harsh weather, the rubber boot, or the rubber at the base of the pipe, may wear out and deteriorate or split.
- Collars: The collars may rust or crack, which allows snow or rain to collect and pool near the vent.
- Metal base: If the seams of the base are damaged or broken, the seal is broken and water can leak in.
- Nails: If the nails are rusted or loosened, it can expose a hole into your home.
- Movement: If the pipe has recently been adjusted, moved or shifted the seal may not be set correctly anymore.
How to Fix a Leaky Vent Pipe
The fix for a leaky vent pipe will depend on the issue, and may require surrounding roof repair as well. Some of the fixes may include:
- Roof sealant and repair: If the roof around the vent pipe is damaged, a professional roofer can seal and repair the gaps and loose shingles surrounding the vent pipe.
- Replace worn-out parts: If the cause of your leaky vent pipe is one (or more) of the parts of the vent pipe, it will need to be replaced, and the pipe re-sealed.
To protect your investment and your home, trust an experienced professional who can guarantee their workmanship and install warrantied parts by leading manufacturers like A. Clark Roofing and Siding. We are proud to serve residents in Edmonton, St. Albert, Sherwood Park and Calgary, and provide free estimates, expert craftsmanship and professionalism, and prompt attention to all of your service or repair needs.
No job is too big or too small and insurance claims and condominium associations are always welcome. Contact A. Clark Roofing and Siding today for a free written quote or to answer any questions regarding roof repairs or our services.