I’m with you—replacing stuff just because it hit a certain age feels wasteful, especially with how pricey roof work gets. I’ve had better luck just keeping an eye out for trouble spots after storms or big temp swings. If it’s not cracked or leaking, I leave it alone. The only time I swap them is if I see clear signs of wear. Those repair sleeves are underrated, honestly... saved me a few hundred bucks last fall when one boot started splitting.
Repair sleeves are a total game-changer, right? I used to think they were just a band-aid, but after patching up a boot last winter and making it through a couple of hailstorms without a drip, I’m starting to wonder if I’ve been overthinking the whole “replace on schedule” thing. I mean, unless you’re seeing daylight or water, why mess with it?
But here’s something I’ve always wondered—has anyone actually had a vent boot fail catastrophically out of nowhere, or is it always slow leaks and little splits first? I’ve only ever seen the gradual stuff, like a tiny crack that gets worse after a freeze-thaw cycle. Maybe it’s different if you’re in a spot with wild temperature swings. I’m in the Midwest, so we get everything from ice to 100-degree days, and honestly, the boots seem to hold up better than the shingles half the time.
Also, for those who do swap them out more often—are you doing it yourself or calling someone in? I tried replacing one myself once and nearly slid off the roof... not my proudest moment. Ended up calling my neighbor over, and we both agreed duct tape was not the answer (even though he swore by it for everything else).
Curious if anyone’s had luck with those all-rubber universal boots? I’ve seen mixed reviews. Part of me thinks they’re just another thing to go wrong, but maybe I’m just being stubborn.
- Seen a few vent boots go bad, but always slow leaks or cracks first—never a sudden blowout.
- Midwest weather here too. Boots usually last longer than some of the shingles, honestly.
- Tried those all-rubber universals on a couple rentals. Mixed bag—easy to install, but one started curling after two summers.
- I hire out for anything steep. Not worth risking a fall just to save a few bucks.
I’ve seen a lot of vent boots come and go, and honestly, I can’t remember a single one just popping off out of nowhere. Like you all said, it’s usually a slow process—cracks, splits, or that annoying little drip that shows up after a big rain. Midwest weather definitely puts them through the wringer, though. Freeze-thaw cycles are rough on everything up there.
Those universal rubber boots are kind of a gamble. Super easy to slap on, but I’ve had a couple start curling or getting brittle after just a few years, especially on the south side where the sun bakes them. Sometimes they outlast the shingles, sometimes not. I’ve had better luck with the ones that have a metal base and a rubber collar—seem to hold up longer, but they’re not quite as quick to install.
Steep roofs... yeah, not worth it unless you’re part mountain goat or have some really good safety gear. I’ve seen too many folks try to save money and end up with hospital bills instead. If you’re not comfortable up there, best to leave it to someone who does it every day.
As for swapping boots with the seasons, I wouldn’t bother unless you’re seeing obvious signs of wear or leaks. Most of the time, a good boot will last 10-15 years if it’s installed right and you don’t have squirrels gnawing on them (which, weirdly enough, happens more than you’d think). I usually just check them every couple years when I’m up there for something else.
If you’re in an area with wild temperature swings or lots of sun exposure, maybe check them more often. Otherwise, it’s probably more hassle than it’s worth to swap them out just because the season changes. Spend that time grilling or watching football instead—your roof will let you know when it needs attention.
- Totally agree—most vent boots fail slow, not all at once.
- Midwest freeze-thaw is brutal. I see more issues on roofs with lots of sun exposure too, especially south-facing slopes.
- Universal rubber boots are hit or miss. I’ve seen some last just a few years before cracking, especially if the installation was rushed or the roof gets hammered by sun.
- Metal base with rubber collar? Those seem to outlast the plain rubber ones, but yeah, a bit more hassle to install right.
- Steep roofs aren’t worth risking it—one slip and you’re in trouble. I always recommend hiring pros for anything over a 6/12 pitch.
- Seasonal swapping isn’t necessary unless you spot problems—just keep an eye out for splits or animal damage. Squirrels really do love chewing on those for some reason...
- I usually check boots every other year during regular roof inspections. If they’re holding up, leave them alone and enjoy your weekends.
