How Much Does It Cost to Replace Roof Vent Boots? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $250 - $500
The cost to replace vent pipe boots averages $250
to $500
for labor and parts. While you can DIY this project, it's usually better to call a pro.
If you’ve got a leak over your bathroom or kitchen, a cracked roof boot could be the cause. Inexpensive as this product may be, functional roof vent boots go a long way towards keeping water out and maintaining your roof.
Roof Vent Boots Replacement Cost Breakdown
Labor and materials make for a pretty straightforward final price tag, although some circumstances could change that.
Roof Slope
Pretty much any roofing project will cost more if your roof has a steep slope or poses dangerous conditions for a contractor. Many pros add money to the overall cost of the job for steepness and height. Some will tack on as much as $100 per hour when working to account for additional safety measures they need to take or extra groundwork needed to complete the job safely. Standard roof pitch is between 4:12 and 9:12—steep charges usually start at 7:12, but can go up to 13:12 or more.
Materials
Roof vent boots range from $4 to $80 per boot, depending on your chosen material.
Tools
If you’re tackling this replacement job yourself, you’ll need tools such as a crowbar or nail remover, a hammer, and nails. If your new rubber boot isn’t the same size or shape as the old one, you may also need to cut shingles to make it fit. In general, to properly make repairs on a shingle roof, you’ll always need to have a few new shingles handy. It's usually necessary to tear off old shingles when you remove the old boot, because the previous roofer likely used sealant around the pipe during installation.
Additional Roof Work
If you’re dealing with a leak, roof boot replacements might be just one component of your project. A roofing leak specialist might recommend upgrading, such as adding caulking or roof cement to seal the area.
Ask a local roof sealing specialist for advice in this area if you’re unsure.
Roof Inspection
A leaking roof could signify something more serious than cracked or damaged roof vent boots. If you just had a storm or have a serious leak, hiring a local roof inspector might be necessary. Roof inspections start at around $200.
Labor
No matter where you live, $250 to $400 is a pretty good labor cost estimate for most roofs, which may need three or four roof vent boot replacements.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Roof Vent Boots by Type?
Labor makes up the bulk of the costs when replacing roof vent boots, but you could save a few bucks in the short term by opting for certain materials.
Types of Roof Vent Boots | Average Cost |
---|---|
Silicone or Rubber Boots | $4 – $10 |
Steel Boots | $20 – $50 |
Lead Boots | $26 – $37 |
Lifetime Roof Vent Boots | $50 – $80 |
Silicone/Rubber Boots
Home improvement stores carry several different types of plastic, rubber, and silicone vent boots and pipe flashing. They cost between $4 and $10.
If you’re doing the job yourself, it might help to look at what pipe flashing is already installed before you go shopping. Shingles are often cut or arranged to accommodate the boot, so this way, you can find one that matches.
Steel Boots
Galvanized or coated steel is a heavier-duty option for your roof. These products start at $20 to $30 but could easily cost $50 or more.
Lead Boots
Lead is a flexible material, which helps the contractor adjust the boot’s base to the roof pitch and bend its top into the pipe end for a weathertight seal. Lead boots cost between $26 and $37 each.
Lifetime Roof Vent Boots
These products are typically made of thick galvanized steel, cast iron, copper, or extra thick silicone and cost between $50 and $80 per boot. Many come with a collar that seals to the vent, helping to protect it from damage.
Cost to Replace Roof Vent Boots Yourself
You can definitely save several hundred dollars by replacing roof vent boots yourself. That said, working on your roof can be dangerous. If your home has a steeply sloped roof or was recently damaged by a storm, leaving this job to a local roof repair specialist is a better option.
Properly installed roof vent boots are pivotal for keeping water out of your home, so make sure you do lots of research on properly installing new flashing. If you’re looking for a short-term solution, consider the option of installing an inexpensive rubber sleeve that slides over the pipe. They’re easy to install and effective at keeping water out. Just know that they won’t pass a home inspection if you’re putting your home on the market.
DIY Roof Vent Boot Replacement vs. Hiring a Pro
As mentioned above, the labor costs for vent boot replacement average $250 to $400, so that is how much you can save by doing the project yourself. However, an improper installation of the vent boots and flashing can lead to costly issues down the road, like repairing a roof leak and water damage. And again, climbing up on your roof can be dangerous and puts you at risk of injury. Unless you have experience, it may be best to call a professional to handle this job.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rubber and silicone roof vent boots do a fine job of keeping water out, but lead is heavier duty and rated to last longer. If you just replaced your roof or you’re installing a new one, opting for a metal or lifetime product can help preserve the life of your roof for many years to come.
The vent pipe boots on your roof will last about 10 years. They can last longer if you choose durable materials, but it also depends on the climate in your region since they have to stand up to the weather and any wildlife that makes its way onto the roof.
Whether installing new roof vent boots or trying to fix a leaking roof, you’ll want to seal the vent boots properly. For preexisting vent boots, you’ll need to buy a replacement and remove the old one and the nails holding it down. Apply a thick bead of sealant to the bottom of the boot (following the manufacturer’s directions).
Then, install the boot over the vent pipe and apply pressure. You can also apply sealant to exposed nails to prevent oxidation of the fasteners.