Flat roofs are common in Toronto for both residential and commercial buildings, but they come with their own set of challenges—especially when it comes to leak prevention. One of the most common areas for water intrusion is around rooftop vents. These penetrations, if not properly sealed, can allow water to sneak in and cause serious interior damage. In this case study, we’ll look at a recent flat roof leak around vents and how our team at Flat Roof Toronto resolved it.
The client was a homeowner in downtown Toronto living in a two-storey semi-detached house with a flat roof. The roof had been installed nearly 15 years ago using modified bitumen, and while the surface still looked intact, water had begun to seep into the ceiling near the bathroom vent. The first visible sign was bubbling paint and a musty odor—both red flags for water damage.
Our team performed a detailed inspection and quickly identified the problem: degraded flashing around the bathroom and kitchen vents. Over time, temperature fluctuations had caused the metal flashing and surrounding membrane to pull away slightly. This allowed rainwater and melting snow to enter during heavy precipitation, travel along the insulation, and eventually drip into the drywall ceiling below.
We immediately cleaned and dried the area before applying a professional-grade sealant around the vent base. In this case, the damage wasn’t isolated, so we also cut away a portion of the aging membrane and installed new reinforced flashing. We then heat-sealed a fresh piece of modified bitumen over the area, tying it into the existing roof to ensure complete waterproofing.
To prevent future leaks, we also cleared debris around the nearby scupper and downspout, as standing water can put added pressure on roof seams and flashing. This kind of preventive maintenance is especially important for homes in the Toronto flat roof service area, where freeze-thaw cycles can weaken roof materials over time.
In the end, the homeowner was pleased not only with the repair but also with the education we provided. We advised scheduling biannual inspections and performing a flat roof restoration within the next two years, as the roof was nearing the end of its service life.
In conclusion, flat roof leaks around vents are one of the most common service calls we receive in Toronto—and they’re also one of the most preventable. If you notice bubbling paint, ceiling stains, or moisture near your vents, don’t wait. Reach out to Flat Roof Toronto for fast, reliable service that keeps your roof sealed and your home protected.
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