Swapping boots every season feels like overkill to me, but I get why folks do it—especially if you’re in a spot where winter just wrecks everything. I’ve had a few rubber boots that went brittle and split right at the seam, usually on the north side too, just like you mentioned. My trick is to hit them with a little silicone spray after the last snow melts. Seems to buy me another year or two before they really start to fall apart.
Squirrels are a whole other headache. Last spring, I found one had chewed right through a brand new boot. Not sure if it was after warmth or just bored, but either way, it’s a mess.
Have you ever tried switching to those all-metal vent flashings? I’m tempted, but not sure if they’re worth the extra cost up front. Wondering if anyone’s seen less critter damage or longer life with those compared to rubber.
Metal vent flashings are definitely tempting, especially after dealing with split rubber boots and those relentless squirrels. I’ve seen a few jobs where folks went all-metal and, honestly, the difference in critter damage is pretty noticeable. Squirrels seem to leave them alone—maybe they don’t like the taste or can’t get a grip, who knows. The upfront cost is a pain, but if you’re already swapping out boots every year or two, it starts to make sense over time.
That said, metal isn’t a magic fix. I’ve heard of some leaks where the flashing wasn’t sealed right or got dented in a hailstorm, so it’s not totally worry-free. Still, compared to rubber splitting in the freeze-thaw cycle (especially on the north side like you said), I’d lean toward metal if you can swing it. The silicone spray trick is clever though... might have to try that myself before giving up on rubber entirely.
Honestly, if squirrels are chewing through your new boots, it’s probably time to try something different. At least metal gives you a fighting chance.
- Metal flashings seem like a no-brainer after seeing what squirrels do to rubber... seriously, it’s like they have a personal vendetta against my roof.
- I’m still nervous about the metal leaking if it’s not sealed right. Saw a neighbor’s get wrecked after one bad hailstorm—looked like someone hit it with a hammer.
- Swapping out rubber boots every season is getting old, though. The freeze-thaw here just chews them up.
- Tried that silicone spray hack last year. It slowed down the cracking but didn’t stop the squirrels—maybe they like their snacks seasoned?
- Leaning toward metal next time, but I’ll probably double-check the seal and maybe put a critter guard around it just in case.
Metal’s definitely tougher than rubber, but it’s not bulletproof. I’ve seen plenty of metal flashings get dented or even punctured after a nasty hailstorm—especially the thinner stuff some builders use to save a buck. If you go with metal, make sure it’s at least 24-gauge and not that flimsy builder-grade. And yeah, sealant is key. I’ve patched up more leaks from bad caulking jobs than actual material failures.
Rubber boots just don’t last around here either. Midwest freeze-thaw cycles are brutal. I’ve replaced them on my own roof every other year, and that’s with keeping up on maintenance. Squirrels are a whole other headache. Had one chew right through a brand new boot in less than a month—guess they’re not picky.
Tried the silicone spray trick too. Maybe slowed down UV cracking, but didn’t do squat for the critters. I’ve heard of people wrapping mesh around the base, but then you’re just giving the squirrels a jungle gym.
If you’re leaning toward metal, definitely double up on sealant and consider a storm collar or critter guard. Some folks even put a bead of polyurethane caulk under the flashing lip for extra insurance. It’s not totally set-and-forget, but way less hassle than swapping boots every season.
Honestly, nothing’s truly maintenance-free, but metal’s less of a pain long-term—just budget for the occasional reseal or hail dent repair. If you’re in an area with big hail, maybe look at the heavier gauge or even coated steel options. Costs more upfront, but fewer headaches down the road.
I get the argument for metal, but I’ve actually had better luck with composite boots—specifically the recycled rubber/plastic hybrids. Midwest winters here too, and they seem to flex better without splitting. Squirrels are still a pain, but the critter guard mesh works if you use small-gauge and zip ties (not pretty, but it’s held up).
“Honestly, nothing’s truly maintenance-free, but metal’s less of a pain long-term...”
Maintenance is always gonna be part of it, but I’d rather swap a $20 boot every few years than deal with hail dents or rust. Just my two cents.
