Pipe collars: The overlooked link in roof maintenance

By Jesse Sanchez. 

These small but mighty components can be the difference between a dry attic and a costly leak. 

When it comes to roof maintenance, homeowners and property managers often focus on shingles, flashing and gutters, but the real silent threat may be closer to the pipes. Pipe collars, often dismissed as minor accessories, are critical to a roof’s long-term health. And one company, Wil-Mar Products, is leading the charge in making sure this essential detail doesn’t go unnoticed. 

Wil-Mar’s 1st Choice Pipe Collar, made from a proprietary EPDM rubber compound, has become a go-to solution for contractors who are tired of replacing cracked or leaking collars. Designed by veteran roofing contractor Bill Merrin, the collar slides over vent pipes without relying on mastic or tape, materials that tend to degrade over time. 

“Pipe collars are one of the most important accessories on your roof, because they are direct entry points for water when they rot,” Wil-Mar states. “If they are not inspected regularly, the cost of water damage repair far exceeds the cost of fixing them.” 

Industry professionals agree. Heather Malone of ABC Supply in San Jose reports consistent positive feedback from her contractor clients: “Other brands crack and deteriorate, but we haven’t seen that with the Wil-Mar pipe collars.” 

Guillermo Cervantes of GC Fasteners notes that demand for the product has even come from solar installation teams. “Other companies would see them in our showroom and give them a try. They absolutely love them.” 

But Wil-Mar’s collar is only part of the story. Experts say pipe collars should be part of a broader preventive maintenance plan. Routine inspections, especially before and after extreme weather, are essential. Roof penetrations, including pipe collars, are natural weak points. UV exposure, freezing temperatures and debris accumulation can compromise their integrity. 

By integrating high-performance products like Wil-Mar’s with seasonal roof check-ups, property owners can extend roof life, prevent costly water damage and reduce emergency repair calls. 

Learn more about what makes this collar stand out in real-world performance and why it’s earning praise not just for its durability but for the service behind it!