Have you ever been up on your roof and wondered how in the world those vents were installed? Are you scratching your head on how to install a new roof vent on your own home because the old vent is compromised? We have the solution! Here is a quick explanation of how to remove an old vent and install a new one correctly. Watch the video, read below, and then if you need any further help (or would prefer your Lincoln roofing experts to handle it) contact us at Carlson Projects Inc.

How (Not) To DO A ROOF VENT INSTALLATION

What NOT To Do

• Do NOT install onto the roof sheeting (meaning under the felt paper, and shingled into) because this will create a funnel for water to enter the roof.
• If installed incorrectly, do NOT try to seal it simply by caulking around it because water will leak through.

How To Remove An Old Vent And Do a New a Roof Installation Correctly!

1. Loosen the Edges of the Shingles Around the Vent to Be Replaced

Three-tab shingles are very hard not to break, but if you keep your flat bar flush and slowly pry, you might be able to save them. It is time-consuming. Also, have an extra bundle of new shingles, just in case.

2. Expose Nails, Slow Pry & Repeat (Until finished)

After the edges get loosened, the nails are exposed. You can pry them out by working from the bottom shingle up. Slowly pry the shingles and nails out and repeat until you’ve removed all the shingles necessary to remove the old vent and reinstall a new one.

3. Find The Source Of The Issue And Cut Out Old Vent If Needed

When you have all the shingles out, you’ll be able to see the source of the problem. You may need to cut out the vent.

4. Caulk The Felt Down To The Roof To Create A Seal

Caulk all the felt down around the hole you’ve cut to create a seal. Nail down the new vent.

5. Nail Down The New Vent And Caulk Again

After the vent is nailed down, caulk along the edges to create a waterproof seal. Then, continue to caulk, follow the shingles back up on both sides of the vent in a stair-stepping pattern. During this process, make sure to be conscious of any nail holes. If there are any holes, put the nails back in and then caulk over the top or caulk over the top of the hole and then nail the shingle back in.

6. Cut Shingles, Slide Them In, And Nail Them Down!

Quick tip: When cutting new shingles to fit the old ones, instead of cutting it from the top, flip it over and line it up with the old marking. Mark it with your knife, pull it aside, give it a cut, flip it over, and it will match perfectly. 

Get To It! 

Keep in mind that the option in our video is only one of many options you can use. We also like to add ridge vents to our customer’s roofs. Ridge vents aren’t new to the roof ventilation world, but they’ve become more recognized as a great way to vent your attic and keep utility costs down.

A great resource for information on roof ventilation is Finehomebuilding. Their article A Crash Course In Roof Venting discusses airflow for your roof and attic and mentions how you can keep your monthly utility bills down by adding more ventilation. If you have any questions or would prefer the professionals at Lincoln roof repair to handle it, contact us for a free quote!

Where Do We Come In?

Depending on your comfort and experience level, you might want to avoid any DIY and simply hire a roofing professional for your necessary projects. That’s where Carlson Projects Inc. comes in! When it comes to Lincoln, NE roofing, we are your trusted experts. Whether you’re looking for a new roof, a roof repair, or wondering how to install a roof vent, we love what we do and we’re ready to help!

Contact your Lincoln roofing and roof repair scholars for your free quote today!

If you need to install a brand new roof vent, check out our blog How to Install a Roof Vent. And if you’re considering home remodeling in Lincoln, NE, we handle that, too! Take a look at our blog 4 Reasons to Remodel an Old Home Instead of Buying New.