Have you ever noticed the pieces of piping that protrude off your roof? If so, you’ve probably wondered what purpose they serve, and whether or not they present any risks to your roofing system. These pipes are part of your home’s plumbing and ventilation system. The covering that seals them on the roof is referred to as a “roof boot.” It plays a fundamental role in protecting your roofing ventilation. However, when it becomes damaged, it presents the opportunity for moisture to enter your home and cause problems, requiring you to seek out MD roof repair services to mitigate the issues. Let’s take a look at the role your roof boot serves, and how you can keep it working properly.
What is a Roof Boot Anyway?
Your home’s plumbing system has internal mechanisms mean to draw wastewater off and into the sewer. One way it does this is by utilizing the pressure that flows through pipe vents to push the water down into the sewer. These pipes are attached primarily to the kitchen and bathrooms of your home, and run the entire height of your house, all the way to the roof. These are the pieces of piping you can see visibly sticking out from the top of your home. The roof boot is then utilized to seal the edges of this piping so it doesn’t create a space where water can find its way into your roofing system. Different types of roofs require different types of roof boots to properly seal out water. Schedule a roof repair in Maryland to have an expert that will be able to help you determine the best roof boot option for your specific roof, from flat to shingle to slate to metal.
How Do Roof Boots Get Damaged?
There are several ways a roof boot can get damaged. When temperatures change, your roofing materials can expand and contract with the variance of hot and cold. This expansion and contraction process can lead to a roof boot tear or crack over time, especially if it’s a cheaper roof boot option not meant built to account for this process. Additionally, general storm damage or seasonal debris such as fallen branches can slowly wear the roof boot away. There have also even been cases of rodents or other animals chewing at rubber roof boots, shredding the protective seal of the material. When your roof boot is damaged, it’s time to schedule a roof repair in Maryland.
What Are the Risks of a Damaged Roof Boot?
Damaged roof boots can lead to several problems. Primarily, these problems stem from water intrusion. When a roof boot isn’t sealing properly, it creates a gap on your roof for moisture to find its way in. This moisture can work its way to the attic, where it can cause damage to insulation. Damaged attic insulation can compound future problems, such as allowing too much heat to escape, leading to the creation of ice dams in the winter. However, attic damage isn’t the only risk. Because the pipe vents your roof boot protects stretch down throughout your house, water damage can make its way multiple floors down to kitchen and bathroom walls. This can set you up for costly repairs.
How to Prevent Roof Boot Problems
Your roof boot could be on its way out without you even realizing it. That’s why it’s important to recruit a contractor capable of quality roof repair in Maryland. Regular inspections of your roof is a valuable use of resources, as they can help prevent damage from compounding and spreading throughout your house. If you’re concerned about the roof inspection cost in Maryland, look no further than Four Twelve roofing. We pride ourselves on offering free roof inspections to all of our clients, so you’re not forced to spend money on an inspection for a perfectly healthy roof. If you want to protect your home from leaks and water damage with the help of great MD roof repair, contact the team at Four Twelve Roofing today.
