Roof vents are necessary for the movement of gases, such as liquids, moist air and combustion from furnaces and water heaters. They’re sealed to your roof by pipe boots, which are constantly being tested by weather and temperature changes. Damaged boots can lead to leaks and water damage, so it’s important to keep them healthy.
Have you ever wondered why there are so many pipes sticking out of your roof? They are some of the most important features of your roof for a few reasons. Roof vents perform a number of functions relating to the movement of gas, all of which keep your home running properly.
Common functions of roof vents are:
- Stack vents supply air to drain pipes, preventing syphons. All of the plumbing fixtures of your house need air in order for the liquid to flow efficiently.
- Vents from exhaust fans help the moist air from bathrooms and laundry rooms find its way outside.
- Combustion gases from fuel burning appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, boilers, or fireplaces are toxic, and therefore need to be released to the outside through combustion vents.
These vents need to be properly weatherproofed to keep the elements from causing damage to your home and roof. The watertight connection between the pipe and its hole in the roof is called a “boot”, and the boot is typically made of a heavy duty rubber. Unfortunately, this rubber can deteriorate and crack as it’s subject to harsh weather and high temperatures, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks.
Once these vulnerable areas are compromised, water damage is likely. However, this leakage is more visible than other areas of the roof – you’ll see the damage on your ceiling or walls in the general vicinity of the pipe, or you’ll notice discoloration surrounding the damaged boot on your roof.
If you notice such damage, give us a call today to assess the damage: (402) 861-0000.