Forum Discussion

H20ENG's avatar
H20ENG
Explorer
Aug 10, 2018

Why Butyl vs Caulk under roof vent flange?

What is the primary advantage of butyl tape vs just using Dicor or similar caulk (not silicone) under roof vents, windows, trim etc? That bubble gum seems to never stop oozing. I'm not taking things apart every few years unless something is wrong. If it goes together correctly there is less chance of things going wrong, right? :)
I understand manufacturers use it because of its application speed. Is it really the best solution? Caulking with an appropriate sealant seems so much better, then the lap seal on top. Key word "appropriate", which is the gist of my question.
"Because that's what the manufacturers use" is not an acceptable answer to me unless I understand the WHY. Opinions count as its all collective information.
Thanks again all!
  • rhagfo's avatar
    rhagfo
    Explorer III
    I don’t put either under vent flanges. Dicore self leveling applied properly will seal flange.
  • I dont think you would want to put butyl on rubber roof. In case the butyl tape has petro chemicals in the fromula you could be asking for trouble. On the roof I have always used a generous bead of Dicor, screw whatever down and more Dicor over the screw heads and around the edges.
  • I think one reason is because it doesn't dry out and crack the way that many caulking materials do over time, but remains flexible and stretchable. It's also what the manufacturers of the roof vents, windows, etc. generally recommend for use, at least in the handful of installation instructions I've seen.
  • You can get the item back off! Dicor or others like it make removal very hard.
    Are you using or was black butyl or grey butyl tape used?