Protective structure for plumbing vents

Abstract

A protective device for a plumbing vent stack having a weatherproofing cover that is formed substantially of a lead material and is permanently secured over the plumbing vent stack to completely cover the exposed surface of the lead jack flashing so as to prevent access thereto by squirrels and other undesirable animals and/or invasive water. A separate wire screen covers the base or flange of the lead jack to prevent damage to the base of the lead jack flashing. Suitable for use in repairing a damaged lead jack flashing without replacement of the lead jack or removal and replacement of existing surrounding roofing shingles, the protective device is also installed on new construction as a preventative device. Regardless of whether the device is installed on new construction or to repair damaged lead jack flashing, the device is easily and quickly installed.

1 . A protective device for a roof vent comprising:
 a substantially cylindrical sleeve;   a cap secured to one end of said sleeve for covering the open end of said sleeve;   a screen secured to the open end of said sleeve; and   a base having an opening therethrough, the diameter of the opening being smaller than the diameter of the sleeve, and an upturned lip around the opening, the upturned lip being received within the end of said sleeve opposite said cap.   
     
     
         2 . The protective device of  claim 1  additionally comprising a seal around the end of said sleeve that receives the upturned lip around the opening through said base. 
     
     
         3 . The protective device of  claim 2  wherein said seal comprises either a polymeric material, epoxy sealant, or caulk. 
     
     
         4 . A method of repairing damaged lead jack flashing comprising the steps of:
 installing a base around the lead jack flashing, the base having an opening therethrough for receiving the lead jack flashing;   sliding a cylindrical sleeve down over the lead jack flashing and into contact with the base; and   sealing the annulus between the cylindrical sleeve and the lead jack flashing proximate the base.   
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 4  additionally comprising capturing an upturned lip formed around the inside edge of the opening through the base in the cylindrical sleeve when the sleeve contacts the base.