Synthetic shake roofing is designed to mimic the look of natural wood shakes but with improved durability. A ridge vent is a long vent that runs along the peak of the roof, allowing warm, moist air to escape from the attic, which helps prevent moisture buildup and extends the roof's life. Leaks around synthetic shake and ridge vents usually happen because the vent isn’t properly sealed or installed. Over time, weather exposure can cause sealants to crack or fasteners to loosen, allowing water to seep underneath the vent and the synthetic shake shingles. Poor flashing detail or damage to the vent material itself can also cause leaks. Simple diagnostics include visually inspecting the ridge vent for gaps or cracks, checking the sealant around the vent, and looking for water stains or moisture buildup inside the attic near the peak.
As a safe DIY check, you can carefully inspect the ridge vent during dry weather and after a rainstorm to identify water intrusion points, but avoid walking directly on synthetic shakes as they can be brittle or prone to damage without proper footwear and care. If you notice missing or cracked sealant, minor touch-up might be possible with roofing-grade sealant. However, complex repairs, flashing replacement, or vent reinstallation should be handled by a professional roofer to avoid warranty issues and ensure proper ventilation. When consulting a contractor, ask specifically, “What steps will you take to ensure a water-tight seal around the ridge vent?” and “How will you maintain or improve attic ventilation while fixing the leaks?” These questions help ensure the roofer understands both leak prevention and ventilation needs.