Attic Ventilation
Attic Ventilation Products
What is an attic’s purpose?
Attics pose an important factor in regulating your homes’ temperature year round. It’s not only important to circulate air during the hot summer months, but also when temperatures take a dip during winter. Proper air circulation will help keep your roof in tip-top shape and extend its longevity.
The general rule of thumb, according to GAF, is to have a minimum of 1 sq. ft. of ventilation for every 300 sq. ft of attic space. To determine your necessary number of vents, use the NFA calculations and also check to see if your home requires more stringent guidelines. It’s okay to mix multiple types of intake vents, but not usually exhaust because of the disruption of exiting air flow. Check the specs on our vents that show the amount of NFA each provides.
ICE DAMS
What are ice dams?
Ice dams are snow that turns into ice, trapping ice water which can melt and trickle back underneath shingles and into your house, causing stained ceilings and walls to rot. Untreated ice dams can also lead to the growth of mildew and mold. Dampness is a breeding ground for bacteria and should be prevented to maintain its air quality.
Preventing ice dams during winter months is essential in prolonging the life of your roof. Living in an especially snowy climate can cause your roof to age significantly quicker than others. Restraining ice dams with proper venting and insulation is imperative in this instance. Using quality insulation lowers cooling bills and extends shingle lifespan and reduces winter ice dams.
PASSIVE VENTILATION
Taking advantage of warm air naturally rising makes sense. Position intake vents lower under the eaves to allow cooler air to enter. Then when the air warms up, heat rises and needs to exit out through an exhaust vent. Determining appropriate number of intake and exhaust vents is key in maximizing an attics’ efficiency. This common method of ventilating one’s home is the most effective method.
J Vents offer a sleek, low-profile design with the ability for air intake to be on either side. This vent also helps to reduce heat and moisture build-up. Globe Vents offer great airflow and is available in galvanized or stainless steel with built-in screens.
Continuous Ridge Vents run several feet along the ridge of the roof and are often hidden among shingles. Ours runs in a 10 linear foot length in four different color options. This often blends in with the peak of the roof and therefore is less visible by the untrained eye. This is typical to see other types of vents along the backside of the home, being less visible from the front side of the street for curb appeal reasons.
Having the proper amount of intake and exhaust vents is key. Roof vents should be at about two feet below the ridge line and evenly spaced out. With over 14 products to choose from, our line of attic vents is sure to fit your specific sizing needs.