Roof Vent Leak From Snow

While you are on the roof walk along the entire length of the ridge vent.

Roof vent leak from snow.

You should inspect your ridge vent annually. Exhaust vent condensation this is a very popular source of the winter roof leak phone call we receive. The roof must be made colder. Similar to attic frost related leaks this problem is related to the accumulation of frost inside an exhaust vent commonly a bath vent duct where it travels through an unheated attic.

Leaks due to snow or rain driven into the attic through louvres or vents acceptable performance condition attic vents shall be installed in accordance with the building code and prevent the entry of rain snow and insects. Inches of snow adds weight to your flat roof as the extra weight can cause sagging and leaking before it ultimately collapses from too much distress. Look to see if the fasteners are still in place. There should be a fastener every 18 inches.

When your roof was installed each vent pipe received a flexible boot to seal water around the round surface of the vent pipe. Vent pipe leaks during heavy rain can occur if you have cracks in your vent pipe boot or flashing. If the fasteners are not secure a strong wind may pull up the ridge cap and let rain or snow get into the vent causing it to leak. Snow can get into any weak areas on the roof as the melting causes ponding which seeps into the building.

These boots vary in quality flexibility and longevity. Can snow cause your roof to leak.