Proper Roof Venting

A hot ceiling tells you that the attic is acting like a solar oven.

Proper roof venting.

It helps prevent moisture buildup in your attic which during colder months can help prevent condensation. The intent of roof venting varies depending on climate but it is the same if you re venting the entire attic or if you re venting only the roof deck. If there are asphalt shingles on your roof the attic must be ventilated to comply with the terms of the. Attic ventilation works on the principle that heated air naturally rises primarily utilizing two types of vents.

See the benefits of attic ventilation a new roof is more than just shingles. You ll first need to consider whether or not your house s roof needs ventilation. If you don t see any attic vents on the roof or in the eaves you need to add some. Prior to installing the ridge vent a 1 inch wide strip of roof decking is cut out along both sides of the ridgeline to allow for air movement through the vent.

The option you choose will be contingent on factors such as the type of roof you re working with and the local climate. Obviously more research is needed but here s what we do know. Theory behind venting ice dams form when a home s escaping heat warms the roof sheathing and melts the underside of the snow layer on the roof. If it does you ll have to decide what type of vents will work best and how to properly install them.

Beyond the decreased capacity for insulation when venting the roof deck venting the roof deck or the attic has some other drawbacks worth considering. Your actual living space is sealed. Proper attic ventilation can help reduce the load on your air conditioner. In cold climates snow can enter the soffit and ridge vents melt and potentially cause rot.

Here are four signs of an unventilated or under ventilated attic. To calculate the amount of ventilation you need for your home visit gaf s ventilation calculator now. As the ventilation helps moderate the temperatures in the attic this may also help moderate the temperature in the. Proper attic ventilation offers numerous advantages to the homeowner.

Look at your eaves and roof. Touch your ceiling on a warm sunny day. Hot air exhaust vents located at the peak of the roof allow hot air to escape. Intake vents located at the lowest part of the roof under the eaves allow cool air to enter the attic.

A ridge vent is a ventilation strip that is placed along the ridgeline of the home.