Slate and pipe boot leaks typically occur where the flashing or sealing around pipes that penetrate a slate roof breaks down. These pipe boots, usually made of rubber or metal, create a watertight barrier to stop rain from seeping in. Over time, the rubber can dry out, crack, or shrink, especially under harsh weather conditions, while metal boots can corrode or lose their seal. Leaks also happen when a slate tile near the pipe is broken, displaced, or missing, allowing water to bypass the flashing. To check for problems, you can visually inspect the roof from the ground with binoculars or from a safe ladder, looking for cracked boots, rust, or missing slate. You might spot signs of water stains or damp spots inside your attic or ceiling, which often point to where leaks occur. It’s important to avoid walking directly on slate tiles since they are fragile and can crack, which could worsen the problem.
If you identify worn or damaged pipe boots yourself, a temporary fix can involve replacing the rubber collar or using a high-quality roofing sealant applied carefully around the pipe base to delay leaks until professional repairs are done. However, because working around slate requires skill and protective gear, and improper fixes can void roofing warranties, it’s wise to call a professional roofer for a thorough inspection and repair. When you consult a contractor, good questions to ask include: “Can you show me how you plan to preserve the existing slate tiles during the repair?” and “Will the replacement pipe boot material maintain our roof’s warranty and weather resistance?” These help ensure the roofer respects the roof’s unique materials while using durable, compatible fixes.