Ridge Vents

FACT

All roofs need ventilation that allows interior moisture and heat to escape the structure. Ventilation prevents rotting, warping, and rusting of the framing and substrates. Most metal roof styles can be ridge-vented to a watertight, yet still aesthetically pleasing, form.

ANALYSIS

Ridge vent is one of the best and most efficient ways to ventilate a structure. However, adequate air volume must enter at the eave or soffit in order to create the proper airflow. In addition to moisture, heat will also be vented from the structure resulting in the reduction of cooling costs during warm weather. In cold weather, ridge vents help maintain a uniform roof temperature and, as a result, reduce the chance of ice damming. Most ridge vent systems rely on baffles to prevent water entry. Care must be taken to ensure positive angles so the system properly drains out water.  Ridge vent covers and ends need to be sealed extremely well in order to prevent birds and insects from nesting inside. Read the manufacturer’s instructions, use common sense, and when installing over metal roofs, use foam fillers to allow for workspace to install the vent system without damaging the roofing product.

SOLUTION

Roofing installers and property owners must understand that ventilation is needed on all roofs. While power vents, gable end vents, turbine or “whirly-bird” vents and static vents can be also installed to prevent water from entering the structure and maintain adequate ventilation, ridge vents,  when combined with eave/soffit vents, offer excellent non-powered airflow and ventilation. Most ridge vents can be used with metal roofing; consult with the vent manufacturer and the roofing manufacturer to determine installation details. Some ridge vents have external or internal baffles that promote airflow and protect against water and snow infiltration. Consumers should look for durable systems that will last the life of the metal roof. Some metal roofing manufacturers, including Classic Products, offer their own ridge vent systems as well in matching colors, metals, and styles.