Fix Leaky Roof Flashing

Fix a leaky roof vent pipe with a oatey rubber gasket.

Fix leaky roof flashing.

Water test the roof at the area of the chimney using a garden hose. Check plumbing vent boots and roof vents if water is entering from that area to cause the leaking roof. To do this ask an assistant to observe the area of the ceiling near the chimney and run water along the sealed gaps of the. Plug pinholes with roofing cement and patch holes up to about 3 4 inch in diameter with a patch from the same material as the flashing.

At the chimney examine the flashing carefully. The rubber gasket that surrounds the vent pipe could be rotted. Step flashing is when you repair the damage by putting in new flashing over the damaged area. Flashing is the metal strip that creates a water resistant barrier between joints.

There are three different types of roof flashing repair. Start low soaking the area just above where the leak appears in the house. The flashing edge should be covered completely. Isolate areas when you run the hose.

To prevent leaks at the flashing inspect it every spring. Then slide it up the roof preferably on top of the damaged flashing. How to repair roof flashing small holes or corroded spots in flashing can be easily repaired. First roughen the area around the hole with a wire brush or sandpaper and then clean it.

Flashing works to protect your roof from water and is probably around your chimney too. Metal can crack or corrode from page or deteriorated sealant. Look for cracks in the base of flexible rubber flashing or broken seams in metal varieties of vent pipe flashing. If a leak is difficult to find enlist a helper and go up on the roof with a garden hose.

If these metal strips rust or crack they could let water in and cause leaks. To fix gently pry up the material and remove nails. 2plumbing vent boots and roof vents. Nail a new strip in place and reseal.

Until a professional can fix it you could use caulking and roof cement temporarily. If you see thin spots or gaps along a flashing joint spread roof cement over the entire joint applying it generously with a trowel. For example soak the downhill side of a chimney first then each side then the top on both sides.