Leaky Roof & Gutter Survival Guide: How to Find, Fix, and Prevent Costly Water Damage

5. Roof Vents: Repair or Replace?

Inspect all roof vents (the square or low-profile units):

  • Cracked plastic housings
  • Split or rusted seams on metal vents
  • Loose or missing nails at the base

Don’t rely on caulk to save a cracked vent — it’s a short-term band-aid. The right fix is to replace the vent.

Basic replacement steps:

  1. Lift shingles on both sides enough to access nails.
  2. Remove nails at sides and across the top of the vent.
  3. Slide old vent out, slide new one in the same way.
  4. Screw the base down with rubber-washered screws.
  5. Run a bead of roofing sealant under the shingles on each side to hold them down and add a water barrier.

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