Pipe jacks roofing has many other names, such as plumbing vent boot, pipe boot, and pipe flashing. A pipe jack roof is a waterproof roof-preformed flashing used around plumbing drain pipes that penetrate and exit through the roof, just like those vent and electrical service mast pipes.
By reading the definition above above, you may have had a slight idea about what a roof pipe jack is. Roof pipe jack can protect a vulnerable spot on your rooftop and prevent leaks dripping from your roof because of cracking, corroding, or even squirrels.
As seasoned roofing professionals, we’ve encountered countless homeowners unaware of one crucial component that plays a pivotal role in roof maintenance and longevity: the roof jack. This often-overlooked device is instrumental in protecting exhaust vents that penetrate through your roof, guarding against damaging leaks caused by water and debris.
Proper installation and maintenance of roof jacks can prevent costly repairs and enhance the durability of your roof.
Materials for Roof Pipe Vent
Lead for Roof Pipe Vent
Lead pipe jack has been used for decades, proving its durability against weather and time. This material will survive the majority of asphalt roofing products. It also provides you with trustworthy security regarding watertight roof authentication.
This material is popular, but it costs slightly more money, and the squirrels love to chew the boot, which will later cause a hole and leak. If squirrel armies surround your home area, you may not want to install this pipe jack on your roof.
Metal Sheet
This metal pipe jack for the roof is more stable than the other materials. Most metal pipe jacks have an aluminum base on the upper part that can prevent corrosion from forming in the upper lip. Some are made with flexible materials and have ultraviolet rays, crack, and weather resistance.
Aluminum
Many aluminum-based roof pipe jacks are flexible and allow the pipe jack to fit any roof configuration. The pipe location can be placed in the panel center with some self-drilling screws to complete the installation.
Roof Pipe Jack Installation
A pipe jack for the roof needs to be installed around the vent pipe, which sticks out of the roof, as an additional layer to protect it from weather, corrosion, and squirrels.
- Step 1. Locate the pipe vent on your roof and choose the appropriate pipe jack. Ensure that the roof pipe jack flange fits exactly over the shingles, and it should be exposed till it overlaps the shingles at least a few inches, but there should not be any gap. It is to make sure that the area around the vent is watertight. Remove the pipe jack and cut the shingles around the vent pipe as close as possible.
- Step 2. Once you have cut the shingles, place the pipe jack back on the vent. Fasten the shingles that overlap with the pipe jack in place.
- Step 3. Mark the shingle that touches the pipe with a marker. Cut any excess shingle starting from the lower end. Secure the shingles with three or four nails.
- Step 4. Fold down the tops of the pipe jack till the end of the vent pipe. The protective shell is complete water-resistant.
Read also: How to Install Drip Edge on Shed Roof
Personal Experience
“When installing roof jacks, it’s crucial to consider the long-term benefits of choosing high-quality materials. Spending a little more upfront can save homeowners a lot of money in the long run by reducing the likelihood of leaks that cause mold, water damage, and rot.
For example, rubber neoprene pipe jacks, which carry a lifespan of five to 15 years, often fail long before the roof itself needs replacing due to extreme heat and UV exposure. Opting for lead piping, though costlier, provides a more durable and long-lasting solution.”
Comparative Table
| Material | Durability | Cost | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lead | High | High | Durable but susceptible to damage by squirrels |
| Metal Sheet | Moderate to High | Moderate | Resistant to corrosion, some with UV and weather resistance |
| Aluminum | Moderate | Low to Moderate | Flexible and suitable for various roof configurations |
| Rubber Neoprene | Low to Moderate | Low | Lifespan of 5-15 years, vulnerable to heat and UV exposure |
It is essential to consider materials for a roof pipe jack when you want to install one. Take some consideration for the durability, the maintenance, and the cost before performing your pipe jack roofing.
