Roof Vent Installation & Repair
How Does Roof Ventilation Work?
Roof Vent Installation & Repair
Types of Roof Vents
Ridge Vents
Ridge vents are exhaust vents that are installed along the roof peak. They’re a passive roof ventilation system, meaning they’re not powered by electricity.
Hot air that accumulates inside the attic rises by convection. The warmest air in the attic rises naturally to the roof peak and escapes outside through the ridge vents.
Ridge vents aren’t always easy to see because the openings for a ridge vent are the continuous space on either side of the ridge cap. On an asphalt shingle roof, they’re usually covered by a layer of shingles.
Soffit Vents
As ridge vents release warm inside air, fresh outside air is simultaneously drawn into the attic through soffit vents.
Soffit vents are passive intake vents that run parallel to the eaves along the soffit. They work with ridge and gable vents to promote good roof ventilation.
Soffit vents are installed along the eaves of the roof and are usually in the form of grilles that run the length of each soffit. Soffit vents may run continuously under eaves. Rectangular or circular vents may be installed in soffits where a continuous strip-type vent was omitted.
Gable Vents
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Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of poor roof ventilation?
- Icicles and ice dams forming at the edges of your roof
- High utility bills, discomfort, or HVAC breakdowns from excess use
- Hot or cold spots in your home
- Mold and mildew on or under your roof
What are the benefits of roof ventilation?
- Reduced energy costs: Roof ventilation keeps your space comfortable, so you don’t have to rely as heavily on your HVAC systems.
- Maximized roof life span: You can prevent some of the most common causes of roofing damage with a well-ventilated roof, including ice dams, heat retention, and moisture buildup.
- Better home health: Combat mold and mildew from poor ventilation to keep your roof in good condition and promote a healthy indoor environment.
Do I need natural or mechanical roof ventilation?
Most roofs rely on natural or passive roof ventilation. However, the design of your roof and other factors specific to your property can inhibit natural airflow, meaning it needs mechanical assistance.
Your roofing contractor can inspect your roof and recommend natural or mechanical ventilation.