How To Fix A Roof Leak Around A Vent

Repair Missing Roofing Shingles

One of the most common causes of roof leaks on an asphalt shingle roof are from shingles that blew off the roof. This could be because they werent secured properly or due to strong winds. Fortunately, repairing missing shingles is straightforward.

Tap down all the existing nails so that they are out of the way. Pull out the nails from all the shingles above the row of missing shingles at least one shingle to the side of the section on either side. Now pull out the nails from two rows above the opening. With the nails removed you can now slip the replacement shingles into place and nail them down by lifting the next shingle row up and nailing underneath the shingles below the tar strip. Finish your fix by replacing all the nails that you removed on the undamaged shingles. You should not have a roof leak through that section of your roof any longer.

How To Find The Source Of A Leak

With many possible sources, there are things that you can do to find the source. This information can help you when you contact a professional roofer. The best time to do it is during a heavy rain. If its not raining anymore, you can have someone spray water on the roof to mimic the rain.

Heres how to find the source of a leak:

Search for the wet spot in the attic floor. Use the flashlight to check out the rafters and decking of the roof directly above this wet spot.

Follow the trail of water spots up to the highest point.

Take the measurement from the peak of the roof up to the leaks highest point. Make sure to measure over the leaks gable end.

If its safe, go up on your roof and use the measurements to pinpoint the location. Look around for any signs that could indicate the cause of the leaking. If you cant find it using the measurements, look further higher.

Make sure to take extra precautions when working on the roof. Its actually not recommended for you to go up the roof. It can be very dangerous. You could fall. You can also create more damages that could lead to more leaks.

What Causes Leaking Around A Vent Pipe

Here are four common problems that can cause water to leak around vent pipes:

Recommended Reading: How Much Should A New Roof Cost

How To Find A Roof Leak

Learning how to find a roof leak is easy but accomplishing the task can be frustrating. And fixing a leaky roof can be less time-consuming than locating where the water is coming in.

Water frequently enters the house near things that go through the roof. Projections or penetrations such as vents, dormers and chimneys are frequent places for leaks. Locating the exact source can be tricky because visible signs of a leak on the inside might be several feet away from either to the left, right or below the actual source.

To find the source of a roof leak:

• Look in the attic with a flashlight for evidence like water stains, trhen trace them up the roof and rafters to the entry point.
• If the leak isnt obvious, have a helper watch in the attic while you get on the roof with a garden hose.
• Begin soaking low on the roof, just above where the leak is visible inside the house.
• Use enough water to mimic heavy rains.
• Run water over the low side of the penetration for several minutes while the helper watches for any water droplets.
• If none appear, move to the right or left side of the penetration and let the water run over the area for several minutes before moving to the other side.
• Work your way up the roof, isolating areas around each penetration until the helper yells that a drip is visible.
• That will be the vicinity of the leak.

How To Repair A Damaged Roof Vent Pipe Collar

Usually, a roof vent pipe collar is the place where a roof leak occurs. The collar pipe is located around the bottom of the ventilation pipe, where it protrudes through the material roofing surface.

Read also: How to Overcome Leaking Metal Roof

Generally, this collar consists of a rubber boot and metal plate, which is typically made from aluminum built into the collars top.

A roof vent pipe collar is to give a tight seal to prevent debris and rain from entering the attic. Gradually, the rubber boot may split up due to the harsh weather or sun exposure.

A damaged pipe collar will enable the rainwater to pool around and then get into the homes interior walls, causing considerable damage.

If the roof vent pipe collar is damaged, it must be replaced. Compared to any other roof reparations, repairing a damaged pipe collar, fortunately, does not require a lot of time and cost.

There is no need to call a professional to get the problem solved. Follow the roof vent pipe collar replacement procedure below to get the vent pipe repaired.

Purchase a new rubber seal from the local hardware store. Before going up to the roof, cut the rubber boot first by using a metal shear or heavy scissor to lessen the arduous task while on the roof. It would be best to cut the rubber oversize.

Don’t Miss: What Causes Moss On Roof

Youre Using It Too Much

What Does It Look Like: Unfortunately, there is no way to differentiate if this is the cause of the leak. However, all homeowners should be careful with how often they venture out on to their roofs.

Why It Happens: As you can see from the other causes in this post, a lot of roofing material is very fragile. You may accidentally step on a crucial element or crack an already precarious seal.

How To Fix It: Avoid walking on your roof whenever possible. Let that Frisbee go and buy a new one. Hire a professional roofer to do your fixes, since they are trained on how to avoid the most easily-damaged areas. Save yourself from walking on the roof by growing a green oasis.

Whether you have an old roof, new roof, or even a fancy green rooftop, wear and tear is unavoidable. There will be rainstorms, long winters, and heavy winds. But, roof leaks? They are a different story. With the right care regimen, every roof should have the ability to keep your family warm and dry for decades. As you work on home maintenance, refer to this list of the 10 most common causes of roof leaks. Youll be glad you did when catching a leak early saves you time and money.

Have you ever had a leak in your roof? If so, what did you do to fix it? If not, do you have any home maintenance tips that you use to keep the roof in good shape? Share your stories with us in the comments.

Prevention Is Always Better Than Cure

If you are looking for the best solution for a leak, its prevention.

Preventing it from happening in the first place can only be achieved through proper and regular maintenance performed by a licensed roofer. Whether for rescue or for prevention, know who to call. Refresh Remodeling is always available to help you with your roofing problems.

Also Check: What Roofing Sheets Are Best

Longhorn Expert Repair Can Help

If you have noticed stains on your ceiling or walls from water leaking into your home or business, chances are that you may have some other age-related roofing problems that could use an inspection.

Longhorn Roofing has provided expert repair and replacement of roofs in the greater Austin area for over three decades. Our professionals are happy to inspect your roof to see how we can help protect your home or business from further water damage.

Your Vent Booting Is Cracked

What Does It Look Like: Roof vents are those things that look like small pipes sticking out of the top of your roof. Theyre used to expel excess moisture from the inside of the house. Leaks from this area will likely leave corresponding dark spots .

Why It Happens: Roof vents are often sealed by placing some flashing around the opening and slipping a tight, rubber boot over the area where the pipe peeks out of the roof. Over time, the flashing can break or the roof can decay.

How To Fix It: : Use a knife to remove the rubber around the vent. Use a pry bar to break the seal on any connecting shingles. Slide the new rubber boot under the shingles, over the vent, and bring it down onto the roof. Then, secure the new boot with roofing nails on either side and caulk under the shingles to seal them to the new flashing. Consider buying extra shingles to make replacing broken ones even easier.

You May Like: How Much Is A New Roof Per Square Foot

Condensation In Your Attic

A leak is most likely coming from your attic if the attic space shows signs of mold or mildew growth. A strong, musty odor emanating from the attic is also a key that water has gotten inside. You may also notice water stains or discoloration on your ceiling as a sign of a roof leak or attic condensation.

If you find mold or mildew near the leak, then it may be coming from your attic. This means that there is too much condensation build-up above you. To treat the issue, get rid of the mold growth and ensure your attic is well insulated. Installing a ventilation fan can also help. Placing a dehumidifier in the attic can get rid of any remaining moisture and condensation.

How to Fix it:

• Use a dehumidifier in the attic
• Remove any mold or mildew growth safely
• Install ventilation fan

Mark The Deck Cut Area

Snap a chalk line down the roof rafters on both the left and right sides of the damaged section of roof deck. Be sure to snap the line in the center of the rafters. Follow existing nails as a guide to the rafter center.

Then, snap a chalk line crossways or 90 degrees to the rafters both above and below the damaged section.

Recommended Reading: How Much Does A Tpo Roof Cost

How Do You Fix A Plumbing Vent

How to Clean and Clear Your Vent Climb onto your roof. Have an assistant flush a toilet while you hold your hand over the vent. Use a plumbers snake of electricians fish tape to unclog the stoppage. If you cant entirely remove the clog with your snake, use a garden hose to flush out remaining debris.

Plumbing And Other Roof Vent Boot Leaks

If your roof is leaking from the plumbing vent boots, which come in plastic, plastic, and metal, and two-piece metal units, check the bases for cracks and broken seams. Closely examine the rubber boot that surrounds the pipe which can rot away or tear, giving easy access for water to drip into your house along the pipe. For more specific information on how to troubleshoot possible leaks, check out this article.

If you discover water coming in around your roof vent, the best solution is to replace the vent, replace missing nails with rubber-washed screws, and then caulk it. Just caulking the seam of the damaged vent wont fix the problem for the long haul.

Read Also: How Much Are Roof Shingles At Home Depot

Here Are Some Things You Can Do To Fix A Leaking Roof

• If the shingles are curled back, then brushing on an asphalt roofing cement will help to reseal the leaking roof.
• You could even use caulk for fixing very small leaks. But remember, this is not a long-term solution.
• Replace the damaged or missing shingles. If you have the replacement shingles, of course! For doing so, carefully lift the edges of the surrounding shingles and the nails with the aid of a pry bar. Once done, the shingle will automatically come out smoothly. Chuck out the protruding nails if necessary.Now, on to replacing the shingle! You can fasten the new shingles in place with the help of roofing nails in all corners. As a final step, you should cover the nail with cement and then smooth down the shingle edges that are overlapping.
• For fixing the flashing around dormers, skyscrapers, and chimneys, all thats needed is a caulk gun with roofing cement.
• For damaged roof vents, you have no other option but to go with replacement to prevent water from finding its way into the base.

Replacing & Repairing Shingles

• Gentle Sponge
• Spray Bottle

You can use mild bleach to clean and help fade the stain. For every cup of bleach, use three cups of water. Place a towel or sheet on the floor to prevent any drippage. Dip the sponge in the bleach solution and gently wipe away the stain. Once youre done, spray the area with water. Lastly, use a dry cloth to clean up the area. You can also use a fan to help keep the area dry.

Wait a few days before repainting. You can use a stain-blocking primer that colour matches the rest of your ceiling. Once you have applied the primer, paint one or two coats of latex or oil-based paint.

Read Also: What Is The Purpose Of Roof Gutters

The 10 Most Common Causes Of Roof Leaks

Whether your home is big or small, the last thing anyone wants is a roof leak. Image Via: Prentiss ArchitectsLets face it: No one wants to have to go running for a drip bucket every time it rains. Not only is having to stay on top of the weather forecast annoying and impractical, but that one small drip symbolizes a larger roofing issue and we all know that roofing issues mean an investment of time and money.

In an effort to save you that investment, weve compiled a list of The 10 Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks. Well tell you what they look like, why they happen, and how to fix them.

Whether your roof is two years old or twenty keep this list handy. You never know when it could mean the difference between doing a quick repair or a major remodel.

How To Fix Leaks Around Brick Chimneys

There are a few options for fixing leaks around brick chimneys. If the leak is just on one side of the chimney, you can try applying roof sealant over that spot to see if it fixes the problem. Chimneys also have flashing, which goes at their base and keeps water from getting between them and damaging mortar joints. Ask the best roof repair specialists about these solutions, or contact us today with any questions!

Don’t Miss: How To Patch A Rubber Roof

How To Fix Plumbing Vent Boots

One way to fix your Plumbing vent boots is by replacing the pipe below them. Another way you can do this is by using a pre-formed cycling clamp to take pressure off the boot and line to replace the sealing damage. Unfortunately, fixing vents, pipes, or any other household issue is not always easy or possible. Thats why when you hire someone for home repair in Manhattan, TCI Manhattan will give you an affordable roof repair price on their services with no strings attached!

Wait For The Caulk To Dry

Things You Will Need

• Carpenters knife or box cutter

• Putty knife or screwdriver

• Soapy water

Tip

Carry tools onto the roof in a tool belt, if possible, to keep your hands free.

Having a second person on the ladder, handing items to the worker, can provide additional safety. Keep a third person on the ground to monitor the ladder.

Smoothing the caulk with a gloved finger is not necessary. This is for aesthetic purposes, but not needed on a roof.

Warning

Wear rubber-soled shoes while climbing on a roof to reduce the chance of slipping and falling.

Purchase a caulk made specifically for roofing projects. These hold up best to heat and the elements.

References

Tips

• Carry tools onto the roof in a tool belt, if possible, to keep your hands free.
• Having a second person on the ladder, handing items to the worker, can provide additional safety. Keep a third person on the ground to monitor the ladder.
• Smoothing the caulk with a gloved finger is not necessary. This is for aesthetic purposes, but not needed on a roof.

Warnings

• Wear rubber-soled shoes while climbing on a roof to reduce the chance of slipping and falling.
• Purchase a caulk made specifically for roofing projects. These hold up best to heat and the elements.

Writer Bio

You May Like: How Often Does A Tile Roof Need To Be Replaced

What Is The Trick For Finding Difficult Leaks

The Trick for Finding Difficult Leaks is knowing something about the roof leak repair process before calling for help. Ask if your roofer or builder can inspect the problem and recommend a solution.

There are four common causes of leaks around an exterior chimney: insufficient flashing, weep holes clogged with debris, improperly seated flashings or metal scraps left from a previous installation obscuring weep holes, and improper penetration of high-temperature caulk through brick mortar joints between a brick chimney and a structural masonry wall. For most leaks, youll need trained construction specialists at TCI Manhattan. They have safety gear appropriate to any dangerous situations they might discover when operating on your property, along with at least two helpers for this sort of thing.