Metal roofs have one of the longest life spans of the various roof coverings. Penetrations are always one of the biggest issues with metal roofs.

When evaluating the the roof the pipe penetration detail is often telling on how well the roof installation was performed. To ensure a leak free roof covering attention to detail at the penetrations is critical.

                                              (improper boot installation)

I often see during a home inspection improper boot or penetration details on metal roof. The vast majority are on Exposed Fastener roofs versus Standing Seam roofs.

Often these poorly performed penetrations rely heavily on caulking as the main component for sealing.

Here is a video on proper boot installation.

The other big issue is where penetrations for electrical mast or other penetration where a boot can not be slipped over the penetration. Often as in the example below the boot is omitted and in this case not even caulked.

                                              ( Double trouble here )

Here is a video on proper retrofit boot application.

“If you think it's expensive to hire a professional to do the job, wait until you hire an amateur.”

Red Adair

NCW Home Inspections, LLC  is a Licensed Washington State Home Inspection service located in Wenatchee Washington serving Chelan County, Douglas County, Kittitas County, Okanogan County and Grant County Washington and the cities of Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Cashmere, Oroville, Cle Elum, East Wenatchee, Quincy and many more…  

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