I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve found a “critter highway” right under a cracked boot. You’re spot on about the neoprene—seems like it just can’t handle the freeze-thaw up here. I lean toward the thicker rubberized boots too, but honestly, nothing’s bulletproof in Minnesota. Sealant helps, but I still see folks skip it or use the wrong stuff and end up with leaks anyway. Funny thing is, I once pulled off a boot and found a whole stash of acorns wedged underneath...squirrels are relentless.
Funny thing is, I once pulled off a boot and found a whole stash of acorns wedged underneath...squirrels are relentless.
That’s classic. I’ve had chipmunks try to make a home under a flashing once—guess they like the warmth. I hear you on the neoprene, it just doesn’t cut it up here after a couple seasons. I’m with you, thicker rubber’s better, but even then, Minnesota winters find a way. Sealant helps, but only if it’s the right stuff and actually applied right. It’s a never-ending game with the weather and the critters, honestly.
I get where you’re coming from with the neoprene vs. rubber debate, but honestly, I’m not convinced swapping out vent boots every season is really worth the hassle for most folks. I’ve inspected a lot of roofs around here (central MN), and in my experience, it’s less about the material itself and more about how well it’s installed and maintained. Even the thickest rubber can split if it’s not seated right or if the flashing isn’t tight. I’ve seen plenty of “premium” boots fail just because ice dams pushed water underneath or because critters chewed through a weak spot.
One thing I’ve noticed is that most leaks start at the seams or where the boot meets the pipe, not in the boot material itself. A good bead of high-quality sealant—applied when it’s dry and above freezing—does more for longevity than just swapping materials. I know some folks swear by the double-boot method (a metal storm collar over a rubber boot), especially on older homes with steeper pitches. That seems to help with both weather and animal issues.
Critters are a whole other headache. Squirrels, chipmunks, even birds—if they want in, they’ll find a way. I’ve had clients try everything from mesh screens to capsaicin spray (not kidding), but nothing’s foolproof. Honestly, regular inspections—twice a year, spring and fall—catch problems before they turn into leaks or nests.
If you’re dealing with boots cracking every couple years, maybe it’s worth looking at vent location, attic ventilation, or even just shading from nearby trees. Sometimes direct sun or poor airflow is the real culprit, not just the Minnesota cold.
Just my two cents. I’d rather do a thorough check and touch-up than replace boots every season, unless you’re seeing obvious signs of failure.
You nailed it with the “it’s all in the install” point. I’ve seen folks swap out boots like they’re changing socks, but if the flashing’s loose or the pipe’s not centered, you’re just setting yourself up for another round next year. And yeah, those “premium” boots? Sometimes I think the only thing premium is the price tag. I’ve had a couple customers swear up and down that their $40 boot would outlast the roof, then a raccoon shows up and it’s game over.
The double-boot method is something I’ve started recommending too, especially on those older farmhouses where nothing’s square and the wind comes at you sideways. Metal storm collars seem to keep the worst of the weather and critters out, unless you’ve got a squirrel with a grudge. I had one job where a chipmunk chewed through a brand new boot in less than a month. I’m still not sure what he was after—maybe he just didn’t like my work.
You brought up vent location and attic airflow, which is huge. Folks always blame the cold or the sun, but sometimes it’s just a bad spot for a vent. I’ve seen vents right under tree branches where sap and debris collect, and those boots never last. Or vents on the south side baking all summer, then freezing solid in January. Sometimes moving the vent a foot or two makes all the difference, but nobody wants to hear that when they’re already up on a ladder.
I’m with you—regular checks and a little sealant go further than swapping boots every season. Unless you’re seeing daylight or water stains, most folks can get by with a spring and fall lookover. And if you ever figure out how to keep squirrels off a roof for good, let me know. I’ll buy you lunch.
Man, I’m starting to think the real secret to a long-lasting boot is just keeping the wildlife union happy. I’ve seen more chew marks than actual leaks some seasons. Anyone ever try those metal critter guards? I keep hearing mixed things—like they either work great or the squirrels just treat ‘em like a jungle gym. Also, I’m with you on vent placement. I swear, half the time it’s not the boot’s fault at all, just a bad spot getting hammered by sun or sap. Makes me wonder if it’s worth moving vents, or if that just opens up a whole new can of worms...