What Are the Vents on My Roof? 

Proper roof ventilation is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy and energy-efficient home. For homeowners in Washington State, ensuring that your roof is adequately ventilated can make a significant difference in the longevity and performance of your roofing system. Learn about different roof vents, why proper roof ventilation is essential, and how roof vents benefit your home.

What Is Roof Ventilation?

Roof ventilation is the process of allowing air to circulate through the attic, reducing heat buildup and moisture accumulation. This is typically achieved through a combination of intake vents, located at the eaves or soffits, and exhaust vents, positioned near the roof ridge or gables. Proper ventilation helps to maintain a balanced airflow, preventing issues that can arise from trapped heat and moisture.

Types of Roof Ventilation

Soffit Vents

Roof ventilation devices installed underneath the eaves of a roof that extend past the warm wall line. When properly combined with other roof ventilation devices, soffit vents allow fresh air to enter an attic creating air flow.

Eave Venting (In-Vent)

In-Vent is a corrugated venting strip which provides intake ventilation where soffits or overhangs are inaccessible and will not allow for other forms of intake products/systems such as soffit venting, or bird block scenes. In-Vent is a continuous form of intake ventilation which can be applied in both open attic, and condensed ceiling applications. It is ideal for balanced airflow where soffits or overhangs cannot be accessed or when fresh air is required between roof joist cavities in condensed ceiling areas.

Roof to Wall Venting
In areas where a pitched roof meets a vertical wall, Roof-to-wall venting may be applied to provide air circulation and/or a form of exhaust for the tough-to-vent areas. Where intake ventilation exists and meets a vertical wall, Roof-to-wall venting is required to create a balanced venting system.

Ridge Vent
Ridge venting is a form of continuous ventilation which is applied to the peak/ridge area of the roofline. This form of venting allows for the exhaust of warm, humid air to naturally escape a building’s attic when combined with proper intake ventilation systems. Ridge venting acts as an appropriate exhaust form, which creates a balanced venting/airflow for both open attic application, and condensed ceilings with existing intake.

Box Vent (RVO)
Low profile exhaust vents, or roof vent openings which allow for air flow and unrestricted venting. Box vents are static and installed over a hole cut into the roof. They use natural winds and convection to move hot air and moisture out of the attic. Best suited for open attic applications, and roofs with limited ridgelines.

Gable Vents
Offer passive ventilation of the attic space and roof. When the outside air is moving perpendicular to the gable vents, it is like two windows on opposite sides of a room: cool air into one side, and hot air out of the other. Airflow through vents in the attic will draw heated air out as it rises.

Benefits of Proper Roof Ventilation

1. Extends Roof Lifespan

One of the primary benefits of proper roof ventilation is the extension of your roof's lifespan. In Washington State, where temperatures can vary significantly between seasons, a well-ventilated roof helps to regulate temperature extremes. This prevents the roofing materials from deteriorating prematurely due to excessive heat or moisture.

2. Prevents Moisture Damage

Moisture is a common enemy of roofing systems. Proper ventilation and attic insulation are crucial for preventing heat and moisture buildup in the attic, which can significantly compromise roof performance. Attic moisture can lead to:

• Wet wood and sagging roof decks
• Potential insect infestations
• Mold, spores, fungi, and mildew
• Rusting metal nail heads
• Interior damage
• Roof warping
• Cracked shingles

Excessive attic heat can cause:

• Premature failure of roofing materials
• Ice dams that obstruct water runoff

Combining attic insulation with a ventilation system effectively keeps excess household moisture and heat out. This helps maintain optimal conditions and temperatures in the attic and on the roof deck throughout the year.

3. Reduces Energy Costs

Proper roof ventilation can also lead to significant energy savings. In the summer, a ventilated roof helps to expel hot air, reducing the load on your air conditioning system. Conversely, in the winter, it helps to maintain a more consistent indoor temperature, reducing the need for excessive heating. This can result in lower energy bills year-round and a more comfortable living environment. 

4. Prevents Ice Dams

Ice dams occur when indoor heat rises through the ceiling into the attic, warming the roof's surface. Snow on the warmed portion melts and flows down the roof until it reaches a section that is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, where it then refreezes, forming an ice dam. This trapped water backs up behind the dam and can seep under the roof into the attic. Once inside, it can penetrate insulation, ceilings, walls, and other areas, causing significant damage.

How to Ensure Proper Roof Ventilation

Ensuring proper roof ventilation involves a combination of correct design, installation, and maintenance. Here are some steps to achieve optimal ventilation:

1. Assess Your Current Ventilation

If you're unsure about the state of your roof ventilation, it's a good idea to have a Valentine Roofing Estimator conduct a roofing assessment. They can identify any existing issues and recommend appropriate solutions. All of Valentine Roofing’s Estimators are Top Of The House Certified by Owens Corning and can assess whether you have adequate ventilation. Proper ventilation and attic insulation are essential for preventing trapped heat and moisture in the attic, which can severely jeopardize the performance of a roof. Call (206) ROOFING for a fast and free attic insulation estimate.

2. Install the Right Vents

The type and number of vents required depend on the size and design of your roof. There are many types of attic vents available today. There are static vents, power vents, ridge vents, turbine vents, soffit cornice vents, gable vents, starter vents, and cupola vents. These all come in a wide variety of sizes, styles, and shapes. Some will ventilate better than others depending on the roof configuration, attic size, climate, etc. Valentine Roofing’s roofing experts can help you choose the best options for your home.

3. Ensure Proper Installation

Proper installation is critical to the effectiveness of your roof ventilation system. Working with a Valentine Roofing expert ensures that vents are correctly placed and that the system functions as intended.

4. Regular Maintenance

Like any other part of your home, roof ventilation requires regular maintenance. This includes checking for blockages, ensuring vents are not obstructed by insulation or debris, and addressing any roof damage promptly.

Proper roof ventilation is vital for maintaining a healthy, energy-efficient home. For Washington State homeowners, investing in a well-ventilated roof can lead to numerous benefits, including extended roof lifespan, reduced energy costs, and improved indoor comfort. If you're considering a roof replacement or looking to improve your current roofing system, contact Valentine Roofing at (206) ROOFING today. Our roofing experts are here to help you achieve the best ventilation solutions for your home.