Coordinating a New Range Hood Vent With Roof Work the Right Way
Planning to install a new range hood vent through your roof?
Timing is everything when scheduling your project. Done incorrectly can result in expensive repairs, void warranties and cause roof leaks.
However, time it properly, and you’ll save thousands. Here’s how to schedule this properly…
Here’s what’s coming up:
-
Why Timing Range Hood Vents With Roof Work Matters
-
How A Range Hood Vent Can Void Your Roof Warranty
-
The Right Way To Coordinate The Work
-
Choosing The Right Vent Cap And Flashing
-
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Why Timing Range Hood Vents With Roof Work Matters
Range hood vents don’t just pop through your roof.
They need adequate penetration through your roof deck, shingles, underlayment AND flashing.
Here’s why timing matters so much:
It's much less expensive and easier if you're already planning roof work to install a new range hood vent at that time. Your roofer will already be on-site and have materials handy.
If, however, you install your vent after roofing work is completed… You’RE cutting into a finished roof. This can cause many problems like leaks, roof damage and voided warranties.
The math is simple:
Coordinating both projects together will save you time and money and headaches in the future. It’s the easiest thing you can do when remodeling a kitchen that requires new venting.
How A Range Hood Vent Can Void Your Roof Warranty
This is where things get serious…
Your roof warranty is one of your most valuable assets as a homeowner. But alterations to your roof that go against manufacturer’s instructions can void it entirely. Industry studies have found that more than 60 percent of warranty claims are denied because of mistakes by the homeowner. That’s thousands of homeowners stuck paying for repairs out of pocket.
Cutting a new hole in your roof for a range hood vent alters the roof system that came with your house. If performed by an uncertified installer or with improper materials, your roof manufacturer can invalidate any future warranty claims. This is why coordinating with expert roofing solutions ahead of time is essential to maintaining your roof warranty.
Both types of warranties can be affected:
-
Manufacturer warranty: Covers defects in roofing materials
-
Workmanship warranty: Covers the quality of the original installation
Tampering with either can result in a loss of coverage. And when repair bills can reach the thousands, or tens of thousands of dollars, that's a gamble you shouldn't take.
The safest bet?
Involve your roofer before you make any cuts. They'll ensure it's done according to manufacturer specifications and won't void your roof warranty.
The Right Way To Coordinate The Work
Now let’s get practical…
Matching up roof work with a range hood vent installation doesn't have to be difficult. Here is a method that simplifies it into easy-to-understand steps.
Talk To Your Roofer First
Consult your roofer before purchasing the range hood or beginning your kitchen remodel.
They need to know:
-
Where the vent will be located
-
What size the ductwork will be
-
What kind of vent cap you plan to use
-
When the work will happen
It allows them to schedule their roof work around your kitchen renovation. It also allows them to highlight problems with your roof plan before you invest any money.
Schedule Both Projects Together
If you need roof replacement or repair, have it done concurrently with your kitchen project.
Here’s why this works:
Your roofer can cleanly cut the vent opening, install proper flashing and meld it all in with your new shingles. You don’t have to cut holes in an existing roof, risk damaging old shingles or void a new warranty.
Choose A Direct Duct Path
The straighter the duct path, the better your range hood will work.
Every 90° elbow cuts efficiency by up to 20%. Wow, losing that much airflow from just one additional elbow.
Coordinate with your roofer and installer to map out the shortest and straightest route possible from your range hood to roof vent. This includes:
-
Fewer bends
-
Better airflow
-
Less grease buildup
-
Quieter operation
Choosing The Right Vent Cap And Flashing
Think of your vent cap and flashing as the barrier between your kitchen air and a leaky roof.
Choose the wrong materials, and you’ll be fighting water damage for decades. But how do you choose correctly?
Look for these features:
-
Weather-resistant materials (metal is best)
-
Built-in damper to prevent backdraft
-
Bird and pest screening
-
Compatible flashing that matches your roof type
Inexpensive plastic vent caps will cost you less money initially. However, they will become brittle and crack within years, allowing water to leak through your roof.
The flashing is equally important…
Metal flashing is the piece that goes around your vent pipe, creating a waterproof seal so water doesn't run under your shingles. Good, solidly installed metal flashing should last you a lifetime. Rubber boots and flimsy flashing? No thanks.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Experienced homeowners make mistakes like this, too. Watch out for these common errors…
Mistake #1: DIY installation
Roof cutting isn’t a DIY task. One incorrect cut can mean leaks and mold and possibly a voided roof warranty. Hire a professional every time.
Mistake #2: Ignoring building codes
Range hood vents must adhere to code requirements. You don't want to skimp on code when you go to sell the home.
Mistake #3: Using flex ducting
Flex ducting looks simple, but here's why it's terrible for range hoods: Collects grease, restricts airflow, Higher fire risk. NEVER use flexible ducting. Use rigid metal.
Mistake #4: Skipping the inspection
Get the work inspected when it's completed. This helps eliminate little problems before they turn into big problems.
Bringing It All Together
Coordinating a new range hood vent with roof work isn’t rocket science.
Plan ahead, know who to work with and make sure you protect your roof warranty every step of the way. Let's review:
-
Talk to your roofer before starting the project
-
Schedule both jobs together to save money
-
Choose quality materials for the vent cap and flashing
-
Follow manufacturer guidelines to protect your warranty
-
Avoid the common mistakes that lead to costly repairs
If you do all of the above correctly, your new range hood vent will function flawlessly for years to come. Even better, your roof will not leak and your roof warranty will stay intact.
That’s a win for your kitchen, your roof, and your bank account.