Re: vent pipe

Kary,

If the opening was intended as an external vent pipe more than likely that is where the odors are coming from. Properly piped it is unlikely that it would ever leak water UNTIL the pipes get clogged down the line and you get the toilet flushing and shower draining into the wall and down several stories damaging whatever in it's path.

You need to do something. The correct solution (assuming that was designed in as a vent) is to get it piped up through the roof or out the wall and thus taking the occational odor outdoors where it belongs. The second less correct solution (and in many municipalities this does not pass code) is to purchase a vent 'check valve'. These are often used in remodles where it is impossible to get a vent pipe out. It's simply a device that caps a vertical vent pipe and allows air to enter to effect the desired action of the vent, but typically contains a ball that floats up in case of water back. This is of course less desireable because it will not always prevent odor.

I'm glad that I was of some assistance on your roof problem. Sometimes I hit on something and.... sometimes not..

Good Luck!