Diagnose the Improper Pitch — Locate and Inspect the Vent
Part of project
How to Clear a Clogged Plumbing Vent Stack on Your Roof · Step 2 of 6
In this video
Begin in the attic by locating the plumbing vent pipe. Visually inspect the pipe for an incorrect pitch or sag. In the video, the technician identifies a black PVC vent pipe that is pitched the wrong way, allowing it to collect rainwater and create a water trap. This trap is diagnosed as the cause of a gurgling sound in the home's bathtub drain. The issue likely occurred during a previous re-roofing where an improperly sized flashing was installed.
Goal: Plumbing Pipes Repair
- Gurgling drains are often a symptom of a blocked or improperly configured vent pipe rather than a clog in the drain line itself.
Used in this video
- Flashlight (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Flashlight_Type: Handheld) — Illuminating the dark attic space to inspect the plumbing pipe.
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FAQs
What are the most important safety precautions I need to take before climbing on my roof to clear a vent stack?
Prioritize safety by always using a sturdy, properly secured ladder and ensuring it extends at least three feet above the roofline. Wear slip-resistant shoes, like the Shoes For Crews listed, and work gloves for better grip. Never attempt this project in wet, icy, or extremely windy conditions, and consider having a spotter on the ground.
My vent stack still seems clogged after flushing it with the garden hose. What should I do next, and how do I know if it's truly clear?
If flushing doesn't work, proceed to use a plumber's drum auger, such as The Plumber's Choice 25 ft. Drum Auger. Carefully feed the auger down the vent until you feel resistance, then work it to break up the clog. You'll know it's clear when the auger passes freely and you hear water flowing freely down the stack, or by running water in a fixture below and listening for improved drainage and no gurgling.
Do I really need a specialized drum auger, or can I use a different type of drain snake for stubborn clogs in the vent stack?
A specialized drum auger, like the 25 ft. or 50 ft. options listed, is highly recommended due to its length and ability to navigate bends in the vent pipe effectively. Smaller, shorter drain snakes might not reach deep enough or be flexible enough for stubborn clogs. Ensure any tool you use is robust enough not to break or get lost in the pipe.
The project is rated 'intermediate' and estimated at 4 hours. What specific challenges or preparations should I be aware of that contribute to this rating and time commitment?
The 'intermediate' rating stems from the need to work safely at heights, potentially handle specialized tools like a drum auger, and accurately diagnose the clog. The 4-hour estimate accounts for ladder setup, locating the vent, potentially multiple flushing/auger attempts, and thorough cleanup. Be prepared for the process to take longer if the clog is exceptionally stubborn or difficult to reach.
Diagnose the Improper Pitch — Locate and Inspect the Vent
Part of project
How to Clear a Clogged Plumbing Vent Stack on Your Roof · Step 2 of 6
In this video
Begin in the attic by locating the plumbing vent pipe. Visually inspect the pipe for an incorrect pitch or sag. In the video, the technician identifies a black PVC vent pipe that is pitched the wrong way, allowing it to collect rainwater and create a water trap. This trap is diagnosed as the cause of a gurgling sound in the home's bathtub drain. The issue likely occurred during a previous re-roofing where an improperly sized flashing was installed.
Goal: Plumbing Pipes Repair
- Gurgling drains are often a symptom of a blocked or improperly configured vent pipe rather than a clog in the drain line itself.
Used in this video
- Flashlight (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Flashlight_Type: Handheld) — Illuminating the dark attic space to inspect the plumbing pipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important safety precautions I need to take before climbing on my roof to clear a vent stack?
Prioritize safety by always using a sturdy, properly secured ladder and ensuring it extends at least three feet above the roofline. Wear slip-resistant shoes, like the Shoes For Crews listed, and work gloves for better grip. Never attempt this project in wet, icy, or extremely windy conditions, and consider having a spotter on the ground.
My vent stack still seems clogged after flushing it with the garden hose. What should I do next, and how do I know if it's truly clear?
If flushing doesn't work, proceed to use a plumber's drum auger, such as The Plumber's Choice 25 ft. Drum Auger. Carefully feed the auger down the vent until you feel resistance, then work it to break up the clog. You'll know it's clear when the auger passes freely and you hear water flowing freely down the stack, or by running water in a fixture below and listening for improved drainage and no gurgling.
Do I really need a specialized drum auger, or can I use a different type of drain snake for stubborn clogs in the vent stack?
A specialized drum auger, like the 25 ft. or 50 ft. options listed, is highly recommended due to its length and ability to navigate bends in the vent pipe effectively. Smaller, shorter drain snakes might not reach deep enough or be flexible enough for stubborn clogs. Ensure any tool you use is robust enough not to break or get lost in the pipe.
The project is rated 'intermediate' and estimated at 4 hours. What specific challenges or preparations should I be aware of that contribute to this rating and time commitment?
The 'intermediate' rating stems from the need to work safely at heights, potentially handle specialized tools like a drum auger, and accurately diagnose the clog. The 4-hour estimate accounts for ladder setup, locating the vent, potentially multiple flushing/auger attempts, and thorough cleanup. Be prepared for the process to take longer if the clog is exceptionally stubborn or difficult to reach.