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Should Ridge Vent Go All The Way Across Roof?

Posted on January 2, 2023

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Should Ridge Vent Go All The Way Across Roof?

Have you ever wondered why proper ventilation in your home is so important? As we all know, adequate ventilation is crucial for maintaining a healthy and comfortable living space. But did you know that it can also extend the life of your roof and save you money on cooling costs? This is all done with the help of ridge vents!

Ridge vents are a type of ventilation system installed along the roof’s peak, allowing warm, moist air to escape from the attic. They help to regulate the temperature and moisture levels in your home and protect your roof from damage caused by excess heat and moisture. Plus, using a ridge vent can help you save on energy costs by reducing the need to use your air conditioning system.

Today, we’re going to answer an important question: should a ridge vent go all the way across the roof? 

We’ll explore the benefits of a full-length vent and factors to consider when deciding whether to install one.

If you’re interested in improving your home’s ventilation, or just want some more information on these systems, keep reading!

Should A Ridge Vent Go All The Way Across A Roof?

It is generally recommended to have a ridge vent that spans the entire length of a roof along the ridge. This is because a full-length ridge vent provides the most effective ventilation, allowing warm, moist air to escape evenly across the whole roof. This helps to improve your home’s energy efficiency and protect your roof from damage caused by excess heat and moisture.

However, you can also find and install box vents along the ridge of the roof. In this case, the box vents are equally spaced from one end of the roof to the other, leaving closed gaps between each of the vents. This can still provide some ventilation, but it may be less effective than a full-length ridge vent. Contractors also prefer installing ridge vents over box vents since it doesn’t come with the hassle of ensuring shingles are cut to size to seal the gaps around the box vents.

Ultimately, the decision on whether to have a full-length ridge vent, or have smaller box vents installed along the roof, will depend on the size and pitch of your roof, the type of roofing material you have, and the local climate. It’s important to consider these factors and consult with a professional to determine the best option for your home.

Ridge Vent

Best Roof Ridge Vent For Your Roof

When choosing the best roof ridge vent for your roof, it’s important to consider the specific characteristics of your roof. Some factors to consider include the style and pitch of the roof, the type of roofing material, and the local climate.

For instance, a standard ridge vent system may not work as effectively at ventilation if the roof is hip-style or a roof with multiple levels. In these cases, it may be necessary to use a different type of ventilation system or modify the ridge vent to better suit the unique characteristics of your roof.

One option to consider is a shingle-over-ridge vent, which is designed to be installed over the ridge of a roof. Some shingle-over-ridge vents have a baffle system, which acts as a dam to prevent water from leaking over the ridge and into the attic. This can be particularly useful in areas with heavy rain or snowfall. When shopping for a shingle-over-ridge vent, be sure to look for one with a large opening and an easy-to-use fastening system. Some even have marks to indicate where to nail them in place for proper installation.

Final Thoughts

A full-length ridge vent is generally the best choice for roof ventilation. It allows warm, moist air to escape evenly across the entire roof, improving the home’s energy efficiency and protecting the roof from damage caused by excess heat and moisture. However, the specific needs of a roof will depend on factors such as the size and pitch of the roof, the type of roofing material, and the local climate.

If you’re considering installing a ridge vent on your roof, you must consult a professional to determine the best solution for your home. Our roofing company in Pittsburgh, Hepler Contracting LLC, has experience working with various roof types and can help you choose the best roof ventilation system for your needs. Contact us today at (412) 694-8785 to learn more, and schedule a consultation.

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