How to Replace Roof Sewer Vent Jacks

Water is your home's worst enemy, and nothing helps defend against water damage more than a well-maintained roof. While proper application of shingles can be tricky, stopping leaks around the chimney or vent pipe is even trickier. Replacing a sewer vent jack takes only a few minutes and the jack itself is relatively inexpensive, but the savings from not having to repair damaged caused by leaks are priceless.

Ladder
Hammer
Scraper
Caulk gun
Silicone-based caulk
Roofing nails

Instructions

- 1
  Pull back the shingles from around the vent. Pry them away with the claw end of your hammer if you need more space to work.
- 2
  Remove the nails (there are typically four) holding the jack in place and slide the jack up over the vent. Scrape away any residual caulk.
- 3
  Squeeze a bead of caulk around the vent where it transits through the roof. Slide the new jack over the vent and press it into the caulk. Nail or screw the jack to the roof decking, and caulk around the edge of the jack where it meets the decking. If the neoprene gasket around the vent pipe is not tight, caulk this joint, as well.
- 4
  Press the shingles back down and drive a couple of nails to keep them flat, if necessary. Lay new shingles around the vent if you had to remove the existing ones.

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