Most people assume the roof vent’s role only allows the gases from the sewer to dissipate to the outside instead of being stuck inside the house.
Even though a roof vent is indeed offering such a role, a roof vent’s primary function is to enable the drain and sewer system to work properly where the air will flow into the sewage system, thus balancing the pressure in the pipe.
However, roof vents are also prone to many common issues, such as causing a roof leak. This problem mostly happens in the roof vent pipe collar. Fortunately, such a situation is relatively easy to solve.
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 collar’s 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 home’s 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.
Read also : Roof Vent Pipe Boot Repair
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.
- Preparation
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.
- Trim the Rubber Boot
While working on the roof, make sure to have a sense of safety precautions. By using a cutter, trim the rubber boot until it perfectly fits over the previous rubber boot. Make sure everything is aligned and looks great.
- Get the Rubber Boot Sealed in Place
Apply a considerable amount of sealer that is made from silicone over the previous rubber boot. Put the new rubber boot and make sure there is no space between the old and the new rubber boot.
- Clean the Excessive Silicone Sealer
Since you put in many sealers, it will squeeze out while you apply the new rubber boot. Use a cloth to clean up the excessive silicone sealer and smooth it out. Now, the roof vent pipe collar repair process is done. The seal is perfectly tight. Either rainwater or debris will not be able to get through it.
The current roof material will not get affected by this reparation process, neither the shingles. Although this method is relatively easy to be conducted, the rubber boot will not last long due to the harsh weather exposure.
Eventually, there will be cracks found on the rubber boot, meaning it will not prevent the rainwater from entering the house. The right time to get the vent pipe repaired is before the damage gets worse. Depending on the weather, it is highly recommended to replace the rubber boot or re-applying a sealer.
By conducting roof maintenance every three years and preventing the rubber boot of the roof vent pipe collar from breaking, you will be less likely to experience a leaking vent pipe.
