Topic: Roof Vents

Mike Hanson and roofing expert Simon examine deteriorated plumbing pipe jack flashings on a residential roof. Simon explains that these vents primarily allow air into the plumbing system to facilitate fluid movement, comparing the mechanism to a straw. Gaps in old flashings allow water to bypass the seal and run down the exterior of the pipes.

Old-style plastic roof vents show extreme signs of deterioration, including visible holes that lead directly into the attic space. While not necessarily an installation error, the age of the material has caused the seals to fail completely. These openings allow significant water penetration during rainstorms, necessitating immediate replacement to prevent structural damage.