Whether you’re preparing to replace your roof or simply curious about the different parts of your roof, educating yourself on proper roof ventilation allows you to keep your roof in tip-top shape. Installing a ridge vent is one of the best ways to ensure appropriate roof ventilation.
What is a Ridge Vent?
A ridge vent is a non-mechanical exhaust vent installed at the peak or your roof. It runs the length of the roof. Installing a ridge vent requires a 2-3 inch air slit to be cut at the peak of the roof deck. The gap is then covered by the ridge vent itself.
Ridge cap shingles are then installed over the ridge vent to protect the vent and provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance. However, metal ridge vents do not require ridge cap shingles to blend well with the roof‘s profile.
Why are Ridge Vents Important?
A ridge vent has airspace beneath its design to provide exhaust ventilation at the highest portion of the attic. An external baffle creates external pressure to pull rising warm air out of the attic. There’s also a weather filter which keeps unwanted insects, debris, snow, and wind-driven rain out.
A ridge vent system should be accompanied by eave and soffit vents. These intake vents allow cool, dry air from outside to enter the lower attic space and push out the hot air.
Good attic ventilation provides a continuous, uniform flow of air, which helps keep indoor temperatures even and reduces the need for endless HVAC cycles. By moderating the overall temperature of your home, a ridge vent can lower your cooling costs.
Without ridge vents, moisture in the warm air can condense on cooler surfaces. Moisture buildup can lead to water damage and the formation of mold and mildew. Releasing the warm air prevents water damage and ice damming. A properly installed ridge vent prolongs the lifespan of your roof because it prevents heat from baking your roof from underneath.
When is a Ridge Vent Installed?
Ridge vent installation is one of the last steps in the roofing process. It can also be done to an existing roof. If your roof has a ridge vent, you can see it from the attic. The roof deck is typically cut away to make an opening for the vent.
You know your ridge vent needs help if you notice the following:
- High utility bills
- Ice dams
- Leaky attic
- Shingle damage
- A mix of extra hot or extra cold areas in the home
- Roof leaks, mold, and mildew
- Peeling or blistering paint
- Wall and ceiling stains
Contact Stormforce for quality ridge vent repair, installation, and maintenance in Jacksonville, FL.