The Advantages of Ridge Vents
Adequate ventilation is vital to protecting your roof from moisture damage. Without adequate ventilation, warm, humid air can’t exit, creating a damp environment that’s the perfect breeding ground for mold.
How much ventilation does your roof need? In general, there should be a square foot of net free area (NFA) (the area through which air can pass through) for every 300 square feet of floor area for attics with a vapor barrier. And if your attic doesn’t have a vapor barrier, there should be a square foot of NFA for every 150 square feet of attic floor space.
Keep in mind not all air vents can provide the same level of ventilation. In general, there are two types of vents: box and ridge vents. The latter is arguably the best choice for homeowners. Kroll Construction, your trusted roofing contractor, explains why below:
Cost Efficiency and Performance
Manufacturer warranties require traditional ventilation systems to have a square foot of ventilation for every 150 square feet of attic space but only 300 square feet of attic space for ridge vents. The fact manufacturer warranties require less square footage suggests ridge vents are more efficient.
Curb Appeal
Ridge vents are installed along the edges of the roof, so they won’t draw attention to themselves or disrupt your exterior’s design.
Durability
Most ridge vents are made from aluminum to prevent corrosion. If you’re planning to install plastic ridge vents, you need to make sure they’re durable enough to handle subzero temperatures.
Important note: Traditional roofing systems’ ventilation systems are usually less efficient than the ventilation systems found in modern roofing systems. That’s why if your home has been around for quite some time, it’s highly recommended that you have one of your local roofing contractors conduct a comprehensive inspection.
Looking for experienced roofers near you?
Kroll Construction is one of the most experienced roofing companies in the Detroit area, having served local residents since 1961. To request a quote, call us at (888) 338-6340 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Detroit as well as the surrounding Michigan communities.
