Solution Series – Roof Venting

Solution Series – Roof Venting

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Our Solution Series will address situations where routine repairs or upgrades may not be a possibility. I feel that identifying defects is only part of the home inspection; we are obligated to provide viable solutions.  

There are many instances where “normal” roof venting procedures are just not possible because of the roof construction. One of the most frustrating conditions may of us see in the field is a brand new roof covering with no or inadequate roof ventilation. If the roof structure does not have eaves for soffit vents, the roofer should have installed eaves or another method to ensure proper ventilation at the lower areas. We are told that the installer put ice and water shield under the covering. Unfortunately this membrane does not stop ice damming or provide adequate ventilation; its function is to limit water intrusion. The house will still ice dam, accumulate condensation in the attic space, and the shingle life will be diminished.  Why didn’t the contractor suggest adding soffits with proper ventilation when the roof covering was replaced? After we explain to our clients the necessity of proper attic / roof ventilation here are some great alternatives and suggestions we can give them even if a new covering has been installed without adequate ventilation.

Detail 1 – Installing special ridge vents on a hip style roof. We did feature hip ridge vents in a previous newsletter. Hip ridge vents are different than conventional ridge vents. The installation is also different. Hip ridge vents can be installed after a new covering was installed. They provide ventilation throughout the attic space.

Detail 2 & 3- Roof Intake Ventilation – Although I would recommend using the Smart Vent and Fascia Vent system, roof intake vents do have their place in certain applications. Roof intake ventilation should be installed as low or as close to the eave as possible. It can also be used near the top of the roof if the structure is attached to a wall.

Detail 4 & 5- Smart Vent Intake and Wall Exhaust – Where no eaves or soffit ventilation are installed (lower). The upper wall exhaust system work very well with shed style roof structures that terminate at a wall. Many roof structures do not extend to the ridge or to an area where there is adequate ventilation.

The vent combinations described above will help ensure your client has a solution to a roof structure with inadequate ventilation.