How To Replace Vent Flashing

When vents are cut into your home, there will be vent flashing installed around it to keep the area water tight. When there is a problem with the vent flashing, water can leak into the roof, weaken the sheathing and ultimately cause major damage. Replace any problematic vent flashing as quickly as possible to cut down on potential damage.

Remove Shingles

To get at the flashing around the vent, you will need to remove the shingles. Pry them gently with the pry bar so you will be able to use the same shingles again without having to purchase new ones.

Gently place the pry bar under the shingles around the nail. Apply some pressure to the pry bar and lift the shingles up. Remove them and stack them safely out of the way.

Remove Flashing

Use the utility knife to break the bond between the roofing cement and the flashing. Use the pry bar to lift up on the flashing and break it loose from the roof. Lift the old vent flashing up over the vent pipe and dispose of it properly.

Clean Area

Remove any nails or remaining roof cement from the area and get it smooth again. There should be no obstructions to keep the new flashing from making a strong contact with the roof.

Set New Flashing in Place

Install the new vent flashing over the vent pipe and seat it on the roof. Attach it with galvanized roofing nails and seal it with roofing cement. Spread out with a trowel or small scraper.

Reinstall Shingles

Once the vent flashing is back in place, it is time to reinstall the shingles. Start at the bottom row and work your way around it. Nail back into position with the roofing nails. Apply some roofing cement around the areas where the shingles and the flashing come into contact. This will help to keep the area water tight.

When the shingles are completed, take some extra time to check the area for any signs of leaks. If you do see some leaks, it might be just that the roofing cement has some openings. Apply a new covering. Make sure you spread it out evenly and fill in any gaps.