How to Replace Roof Pipe Flashing

Roof piping penetrations require roof pipe flashing to avoid having leaks through the tubing. If a leak is found through the piping, the flashing should immediately be fixed or the damage could be very expensive to repair. To be on the safe side, some people just replace the roof pipe flashing immediately so that it won’t be an inconvenience in the future. Replacing roof pipe flashing is quick and easy just as long as you have the right tools and materials needed

Step 1 – Place the Ladder

Put your ladder against the wall nearest the roof pipe flashing to be replaced. Ladder should be tall enough so that you have something to hold on to while you are replacing the flashing. Make sure the ladder is away from any electrical wires to avoid any accidents. As you go up the ladder, don’t forget to bring with you the tools and materials needed to do the job. Place your equipment in a safe place up on the roof so that it won’t fall to the ground.

Step 2 – Loosen the Shingling

Loosen up all asphalt shingling that are placed around the pipe. You may use a pry bar to do this, but ensure you don’t damage the shingles. Remove nails to pull up any shingle that is on the way using a hammer. If you break one, then you must replace it.

Step 3 – Remove Old Flashing

Once the roof shingles are loose, lift it up and remove old roof pipe flashing.  This is done by inserting a blade or pry bar under its edge, and lever bar on a block of scrap wood to lift the flashing. Carefully lift the old roof pipe flashing up and over the pipe. Make sure you don’t knock over the pipe out of its place. Pull out any nails left around the pipe from the old flashing and put roof cement over the holes with a caulking gun. Use protective gloves because the flashing can have sharp edges.

Step 4 – Insert New Flashing

Lift up shingling and insert new roof pipe flashing. Set it in the same way as the old one. A collar might be needed depending on the type of roof pipe flashing. Nail down flashing with roofing nails and cover them with roofing cement.

Step 5 – Seal the Base of the Collar

Seal the base of the protective collar using asphalt flashing cement or roof cement. Apply cement generously and smooth it out evenly.  Make sure all areas are sealed properly.

Step 6 – Tuck the Flashing

Tuck the flashing under the shingles. If the shingles are not properly fitted around the flashing, trim the shingles using a blade. Nail each shingle that was removed or loosened up unto its rightful place. Cover nails using the roofing cement.