Best material/method for repairing boots around vents

Multiple of the vents going through my roof have cracked rubber boots around them, which is causing leaks. I am getting contractor estimates, but wanted to get some opinions on the best solution. (Sorry this is not really DIY, because I'm afraid of heights.)

One contractor has said he will replace the rubber boots with some kind of aluminum material boot and might have to repair some of the shingles around the area after the repair.

The second contractor says the "cheapest option" he has is to put some kind of encasing around the whole thing that is already there (I was under the impression that it was the same kind of rubber material as the existing kind).

Are either of these methods better or worse? Will these boots have to be re-replaced when a new roof is put on (which is probably in the next 3-4 years)?

Thanks!

 

If these are rubber boots around vent pipes...they make replacements that just slide down over the pipe. I could type it all out...but heres a better description with pics...Pipe Boot PVC Pipes | Do It Yourself Home Roof Repair I've used them and they will work just fine and last just as long as the originals. Better than disturbing/replacing shingles that aren't the issue.

You can get them at any plumbing supply or a good hardware store...not sure about HD or Lowes. Why the "contractors" wouldn't suggest them...I dunno. Not enough money in it for them maybe? Could be thats what the second guy was talking about.

Hope the hurricaine didn't hit you too bad.

 

Are the boots typically replaced when a roof is replaced regardless of the type of boot (i.e. if a metal boot is on there, will it have to be replaced along with the roof even if in good condition)? I ask because the roof is 13 years old.

I'd rather get a more permanent repair than something that will fail again.

 

I believe replacing them during a reroof is normal if they are deteriorated at all. I wouldn't replace a roof jack (thats the correct name for the whole piece around the pipe I believe) just because the rubber boot it damaged UNLESS it was a reroof. And I sure wouldn't use the conical metal ones that have to be sealed to the pipe with caulk or roofing tar (like is on my house here). Those are more likely to leak than the ones with the rubber boot and have to be resealed every few years (in my experience). Maybe if it's the type that covers the whole pipe and has an integrated cap....but you still could have issues because of disturbing the shingles to install it.

Your roof is 13 yrs old...so the rubber seals lasted about that long. Put the new rubber seals on (5 min job each) and you'll be good until you need a new roof. The rubber seals are as permanent as anything else exposed to the elements....everything requires maintenance.