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The Air Vent Homeowner Hut—a dedicated place for tips, ideas, and resources for the homeowner. If you would like to submit your innovative idea, clever home improvement tip, or other homeowner resource to be featured here, reach out to us on our Facebook page. Use the links below to sort through our Homeowner content:
Homeowner Videos
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Video: Don’t Make the 2nd Most Common Mistake in Attic Ventilation |
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Roofing contractors sometimes report that homeowners insist on having two different attic exhaust vent types on the roof thinking more is better. It’s not. It makes the attic airflow worse. To work properly attic ventilation must be a combination of intake vents (positioned in the soffit or very low on the roof) and ONE type of exhaust vent positioned high on the roof or at the peak of the roof. Any additional vent penetrations beyond that configuration causes inefficient airflow and potential weather infiltration. Furthermore, it goes directly against the guidance from the vent manufacturer, the shingle manufacturer, and building code. |
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Video: Getting Insurance to Pay for Proper Attic Ventilation During a Claim |
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When a roof is damaged by a storm and your insurance company has agreed to pay to replace the roof, proper attic ventilation should be part of the project paid for by the insurance company. This means proper attic exhaust ventilation and intake ventilation based on the square footage of your attic (the size of the attic). We have a portal on our website outlining the steps homeowners take and the documentation they use to help get insurance companies to cover these costs. The bottom line: Attic airflow is a roof’s “insurance policy.” |
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Video: See for Yourself Why Exhaust Vents Need Intake Vents |
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The most overlooked portion of a residential attic ventilation system is INTAKE – the vents installed in the soffit/overhang or low on roof’s edge. Without a balanced amount of intake airflow into the attic the exhaust ventilation is not only useless it’s potentially problematic. This smoke house demonstration shows why. The demo also features the Bernoulli Effect when the wind hits the external baffle on the ridge vent. Check out the air pumping from the ridge vent! NOTE: Video courtesy of Sara Klindtworth, owner of Solid Roofing NW in Albany, Oregon. |
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Video: Don’t Fall Victim to the #1 Mistake in Attic Ventilation |
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Too often when a new roof is installed the attic EXHAUST ventilation is examined for correct quantity and/or improvements but little attention is given to the attic INTAKE vents. Even brand new homes are being built with a lack of proper intake ventilation. It’s the #1 mistake in residential attic ventilation based on incoming calls to our Customer Service Hotline 1-800-AIR-VENT. Unless the attic exhaust ventilation (which is supposed to be calculated based on the attic’s size) is balanced with an equal amount of intake airflow, the attic ventilation will not be able to effectively fight damaging heat buildup, moisture buildup, and ice dams. |
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Video: Attic Ventilation Helps Fight Moisture Buildup Generated by House Occupants |
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Every time we cook, clean, shower, run the dishwasher, breathe, we generate water vapor inside the house. It’s gallons of water vapor. In the warmer months, this water vapor is a non-issue. But in the colder months, the water vapor is attracted to a colder, dryer location – the attic. Proper attic ventilation can help fight the moisture from building up and becoming problematic. |
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Video: Proper Attic Ventilation Helps Fight Ice Dams |
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Some homeowners mistakenly think allowing cold outside air into the attic in the winter is a bad idea. But that cold air is a key component in a multi-step fight against ice dams on your roof. |
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Video: For Best Looks, Run the Ridge Vent End-to-End on the Roof |
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There are significant cosmetic benefits to using low-profile ridge vent as your attic exhaust vent system when your roof is suitable for ridge vent. That curbside appeal is gone, however, anytime the ridge vent is installed short of the very end of your roof – no matter where the airflow slot at the peak of your roof stops. |
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Video: Attic Ventilation Energy Savings Case Study |
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Fixing the Two Most Common Mistakes Saved Hundreds of Dollars. In this visually compelling thermal imaging case study the #1 and #2 most common mistakes in attic ventilation were fixed. The results: Lower roof deck temperatures, lower attic temperatures, lower interior room temperatures, and significant dollars saved. Believe your roofing contractor who recommends balanced INTAKE & EXHAUST airflow; and please stop mixing different types of attic exhaust vents on the same roof above a common attic. |
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Video: Attic Ventilation Helps Fight Heat Buildup |
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Attics Get Hot. A balanced flow of intake and exhaust air through the attic vents can help reduce the heat buildup before it becomes problematic inside the living space and on the roof. See our additional resources below to understand what is a realistic attic temperature when the attic ventilation is correctly balanced with intake and exhaust. Take our Pop Quiz for tips venting hot attics. And hear the story of a homeowner who cut her energy bill 25% thanks to proper attic ventilation. |
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Video: Be Mindful of the Limitations of Wind Turbines |
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Limitation Alert. There are times to use wind turbines for attic exhaust ventilation because other options are not practical or possible. But homeowners should be aware of the cosmetic and airflow limitations that come with wind turbines. Where there’s space between wind turbines the air does not move very well, if at all (this is the same concern with box vents explained in an earlier video). Additionally, many homeowners say wind turbines are not very attractive. |
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Video: Working with the Homeowner Who Questions the Need for Balanced Attic Ventilation |
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Roofer and Homeowner Meeting. Just because the attic previously never had proper ventilation is not a reason to continue to ignore it. Besides, it’s possible the conditions inside the attic and living space have changed since the house was purchased – further increasing the need to revisit the attic ventilation. |
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Video: Be Aware of the Airflow Limitations of Roof Louvers/Box Vents |
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Exhaust airflow limitation alert! Because box vents (also called roof louvers, can vents, pot vents, static vents) are installed spaced apart near the peak of the roof, they leave pockets of attic that will NOT receive the benefits of airflow. If you’re 100% sure your roof is not better suited for the continuous, non-stop exhaust airflow provided by ridge vents, be mindful of the limitations of box vents. |
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Video: The Installation Instructions Read “Do Not Mix Attic Exhaust Vent Types” |
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Mixing different types of attic exhaust vents is the 2nd most common mistake across North America. Homeowners should not ask roofing contractors to do it, nor should they allow it to happen to their roofs. NEVER combine ridge vents, wind turbines, box vents, gable louvers or power fans on the same roof above a common, shared attic. It short-circuits the system causing inefficient airflow and potential weather infiltration. |
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Video: Don’t Settle for an Eyesore on Your Roof Created by Box Vents |
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You can have curbside appeal on your roof. Having multiple individual box vents on your roof to exhaust your attic can create a visual eyesore unnecessarily. Ask your roofing contractor: “Is my roof a candidate for better looking, better performing ridge vents?” |
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Video: Ridge Vents are the Optimum Exhaust Vents for your Roof. That’s Why Your Contractor is Recommending them. |
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Believe your roofing contractor. Of all the categories of attic exhaust vents (wind turbines, box vents, gable louvers, power fans and ridge vents), ridge vents are the best choice if your roof has a generous horizontal ridge line. With matching shingles installed on top, they blend in beautifully with your roof. And because they are installed continuously along the peak of your roof, they are the only vent to deliver non-stop exhaust airflow. |
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Video: Increased Airflow in the Attic Helps the AC and Heater |
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Choosing the optimum amount of attic ventilation pays off. If the roofing contractor recommends a 1/150 airflow ratio in your attic (1 square foot of net free area for every 150 square feet of attic floor space), go with it. In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi shares research documenting the seasonal dollars saved running the air conditioner and heater. |
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Video: Without a Humidistat Feature Power Attic Fans WILL NOT Fight Moisture |
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We generate 2-4 gallons of water vapor daily as occupants of the house. If your power attic fan does not have a humidistat feature, it will not help to fight this potentially damaging moisture. In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains how, without a humidistat, the only time the fan will be triggered to turn on is based on heat buildup inside the attic – in effect giving you only partial attic ventilation benefits. Related resources: |
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Video: Homeowner Says the Contractor’s Price is Too Expensive |
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But is the price really too expensive, homeowner? Does each estimate you’re reviewing include balanced attic ventilation with INTAKE and EXHAUST vents? In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains that it’s unfair to compare pricing without confirming they are in fact apples to apples in scope of work detail. Related resources:
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Video: How Does Proper Attic Ventilation Protect My Roof? |
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Video courtesy of Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) Is your attic properly vented? Every house has a roof but is every roof properly vented to help prevent roof deterioration or roofing system failure? In this video from the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, key points of emphasis are highlighted to discuss with your roofing contractor before you buy your next roof. |
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Video: A Word of Caution About Vented Soffit |
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Use fully vented soffit. To maximize the intake airflow into the attic, use fully vented soffit. In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains that unless it’s fully vented soffit, the vent may not be providing enough intake airflow. Vented soffit panels are also discussed in our podcast with Pond Roofing Company.
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Video: Do You Know Where Your Bathroom Fan Ductwork Terminates? |
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Avoid moisture overload in your attic. Bathroom fan ductwork that terminates either in the attic or out to the soffit near the intake vents can be a source of damaging moisture buildup. In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains a better destination for the ductwork. |
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Video: No Need to Hire an Electrician with Solar Power Fans |
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There are zero electrical costs when you go solar with your attic fans. In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains how the sun powers roof-mount and gable-mount fans, not electricity. |
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Video: This High Efficiency Fan Adjusts to the Conditions in the Attic |
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An on board computer chip and variable speed motor make the HE15 attic exhaust fan high efficiency. In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi shares the energy savings – in dollars – homeowners can look forward to compared to traditional attic exhaust fans. |
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Video: Homeowners: Don’t wait to be offered Ridge Vents. Ask for them. |
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How superior are ridge vents compared to all other types of attic exhaust vents? In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi encourages roofing contractors to always offer them to homeowners if the roof has a generous length of horizontal peak and/or diagonal hips. |
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Video: Homeowner Asks Why No Other Contractors Talk Attic Ventilation but YOU |
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A common pushback from homeowners heard by roofing contractors is this: “Why are you the only roofing contractor I’ve talked to bringing up attic ventilation? Why don’t the others?” In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains how to turn that into a positive dialogue. |
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Video: Does the Homeowner Understand Scope of Work Differences |
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When comparing roofing estimates, does the homeowner understand the scope of work differences? In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains why it is unfair to your roof and to the contractor to say the price is too high without first understanding the details of the project. |
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Video: Insurance will Only Pay for the Vents in Place Pre-Storm |
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Don’t accept payment for an inferior roof. In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains why it is important to ask insurance companies to pay to bring attic ventilation up to code. For additional information, check out our industry resources below on how roofing contractors can help homeowners with insurance and attic ventilation upgrades. |
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Video: Homeowner's Insurance Wants to Reuse Vents |
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When reroofing, always replace the attic exhaust vents. In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains the importance of not allowing insurance companies to force the homeowners to reuse vents during reroofing projects. For additional information, read “After the Storm” – our industry article on how roofing contractors can help homeowners with insurance and attic ventilation upgrades. |
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Video: Ridge Vents Should Be Installed End-to-End |
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Don’t defeat the single best cosmetic advantage Ridge Vents offer vs. other attic exhaust vents on your roof. In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains the benefits of avoiding broken rooflines with continuous, end-to-end Ridge Vents. |
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Video: Don’t Forget About Curbside Appeal, Homeowner |
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What do you want when you look at your house for the next 10 to 15 years? In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains the often overlooked benefit of the streamlined look of Ridge Vent vs traditional box and turbine ventilation systems—curb appeal. |
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Video: Ridge Vents with External Baffles are Best |
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How do external wind baffles affect ridge ventilation? In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains how external wind baffles can improve the overall performance of attic Ridge Vents. |
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Video: Of the 5 Types of Attic Exhaust Vents, Ridge Vents are #1 |
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Why are Ridge Vents the #1 option? In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains why Ridge Vents are the optimum exhaust vent for continuous airflow compared to other ventilation alternatives. |
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Video: Your Choice Homeowner: Ridge Vent or a BUNCH of Other Vent Types |
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Better performance. Better appearance. In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains just how many wind turbines or box vents it would take to match the performance of end-to-end Ridge Ventilation. |
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Video: #1 Problem Across North America = Lack of Intake Ventilation in the Attic |
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What is the #1 ventilation mistake in North America? In this video from our annual Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains how intake ventilation is the leading cause of call-backs from roofing contractors. |
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Video: Do Not Put a Bag Over the Wind Turbine Ever...Including the Winter |
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Mistakes to Avoid: In this clip from the Air Vent Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains why covering a wind turbine is never a good idea for the homeowner…even in the Winter. |
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Video: Attic Ventilation Must Include Balanced Intake and Exhaust |
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Balanced attic airflow is best. In this clip from the Air Vent Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi explains that in order for the attic ventilation system to perform properly it must be balanced with intake and exhaust vents. |
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Video: Never mix two different types of attic exhaust vents above a common attic |
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Don't mix ventilation types! In this clip from the Air Vent Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi details why combining two different types of attic exhaust vents is problematic and should always be avoided. |
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Video: Why Homeowners Should Vent the Attics Under Their Roofs |
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Why ventilate the attic? In this clip from the Air Vent Ask the Expert Seminars, Paul Scelsi details the effects of heat and moisture build-up in your home's attic. |
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The Air Vent Homeowner Hut—a dedicated place for tips, ideas, and resources for the homeowner. If you would like to submit your innovative idea, clever home improvement tip, or other homeowner resource to be featured here, reach out to us on our Facebook page. Use the links below to sort through our Homeowner content:
Ventilation News
NRCA Booklet: Asphalt Shingle Roof Systems – A Homeowner’s Guide for Roof Inspection, Maintenance and Repair ARMA Video: The Right Roof System for Your Home Industry Article: Hold Your Ground with Homeowners Podcast Episode (Air Vent Guest Appearance): What Homeowners Need to Know About Attic Ventilation Additional Resource: Industry Article: Why are You Recommending So Many Intake Vents? Industry Article: Are You Saying My New Roof Will Last Longer if I Switch to Ridge Vents? Industry Article: If Ridge Vents are Better, Why Don’t I See Them More Often? Industry Article: So My Wind Turbines Have Been Leaving Dead Air Spaces in My Attic? Representing the homeowner’s interests, Air Vent roleplayed a conversation with a roofing contractor discussing a replacement roof estimate.
Industry Article: Why Change the Attic Exhaust Vents? Air Vent roleplayed with Daniel White, roofing consultant, Roof Life of Oregon, Tigard, OR in a point/counterpoint about a replacement roof estimate. Representing the homeowner’s interests we asked:
Industry Article: Negative Reviews from Homeowners Give Roofers a Chance to Make it Right While roofing contractors certainly would prefer positive reviews instead of negative, unfavorable comments from homeowners are an opportunity to make things right. In this article published inside Roofing Contractor Magazine, Tom Picha, All in 1 Home Improvements, Oswego, Illinois, shares his perspective from the receiving end. He also encourages homeowners to be open to a face-to-face conversation after submitting the review. Read the full article below: Industry Article: Energy Bill Cut 25% Thanks to Balanced Attic Ventilation In this industry article, published in Roofing Contractor Magazine, Khaled Kazmi of Precision Roof Crafters in Houston, Texas, explains how he helped a homeowner cut the energy bill 25%. Kazmi highlights the findings of his attic inspection that triggered an attic ventilation improvement and a very happy homeowner. Read the full article below: Industry Article: Getting Homeowner’s Insurance to Pay In this industry article, published in Midwest Roofer Magazine, Kyle Pyatt of Gen 3 Roofing Corporation in Centennial, Colorado, details his process working with insurance companies. The majority of the roof replacements he works on are insurance claims; and he shares here how to get homeowner’s insurance to pay to bring the attic ventilation up to code as part of the claim. Read the full article below: Industry Article: Educating Homeowners About Attic Ventilation In this industry article, published in Midwest Roofer Magazine, Shawn Bellis of Epic Exteriors in Overland Park, Kansas highlights the five key points about attic ventilation that every homeowner should be aware of. Read the full article below: Industry Article: Shingle Life Reduced 24% Due to Improper Attic Ventilation In this industry article, published in Roofing Contractor Magazine, roofing professionals across North America share first-hand accounts of significant damage and life expectancy reduction to shingles due to improper attic ventilation. Read the full article below: Industry Article: Avoiding Moisture Problems in the Winter In this industry article, published in Midwest Roofer Magazine, we explain how daily activities inside the house such as cleaning, cooking and breathing generate gallons of water vapor. In the winter, this water vapor is attracted to the colder attic where it can become problematic if it’s not vented out of the attic effectively. Jerry Becker, Roof Life of Oregon in Tigard, Oregon, shares a compelling story about one homeowner’s health before and after the moisture troubles. Read the full article below: Industry Article: Mistakes Caught on Camera In this industry article, published in Roofing Contractor Magazine, roofing contractors share photos of residential attic ventilation mistakes they spotted in the field—and Air Vent explains how to fix them. Read the full article below: Industry Article: HVAC Contractor: Vent Those Hot Attics Carefully In this industry article, published in HVAC & Refrigeration Insider, we explain how proper attic ventilation can impact the effectiveness of the air conditioning system. But the HVAC Contractor should take care not to make matters worse...Read the full article below: Industry Article: Roofing Contractors 'Vent' About Homeowners “Think of attic ventilation as a prescription for good home health. With proper ventilation, the home will breathe easier with less potential for mold and premature aging and failure of the roof system. Not to mention the reduced costs of operating the heating and cooling system."
May 18, 2023
This 30-page guide published by the National Roofing Contractors Association highlights basic recommendations to help homeowners maximize the performance of their asphalt shingle roof. Visit NRCA’s website for more information: https://www.nrca.net
Take our Pop Quiz “Improper Attic Ventilation Can Reduce Shingle Life 24%”
May 11, 2023
Many homeowners ask, “What roof system is best for their home?” as they prepare to replace their roofs. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) has produced this video to help homeowners understand the components of an asphalt roofing system and make an informed decision selecting roofing materials.
Take our Pop Quiz “How Does Proper Attic Ventilation Protect My Roof”
October 13, 2022
When the 4th roofing contractor showed up to provide an estimate for the new roof, the homeowner for the first time heard about the importance of attic ventilation. No one else had mentioned it. But the homeowner questioned the contractor’s plan to improve the attic airflow. And the contractor’s price was the highest of all four proposals submitted. Andy Matyszewski, ABM Roofing in McDonough, GA, was that 4th contractor. He was eventually hired by the homeowner and he has some guidance to share with homeowners who question the scope of work and price when comparing estimates for a new roof. Read the full article below:
Read the full article - "Hold Your Ground with Homeowners"
Listen to our Podcast episode: Episode 27: Hold Your Ground with Homeowners: Scope of Work and Price
August 11, 2022
Listen to the full episode below.
Air Vent was a guest on the Houston Roofer Podcast discussing what homeowners should be mindful of specific to attic ventilation including the need for INTAKE & EXHAUST (one without the other is bad news), what should the attic temperature be if the ventilation is working correctly, and things to look out for long after the roofing contractor is gone. Enjoy the conversation between Joe Patzke and Laura Cole at Trueworks Roofing in Houston, TX, with Air Vent’s “Attic Ventilation: Ask the Expert” seminar host Paul Scelsi.
What Homeowners Should Know About Attic Ventilation
November 18, 2021
The roof estimate itemizes that 18 rectangular 16” x 8” undereave vents are needed. The homeowner questions this asking the contractor, “Why do I need 18? I already have 10?’ Here’s how Daniel White, Roof Life of Oregon, Tigard, OR, explained to the homeowner the current quantity of intake vents is not sufficient and will be problematic if not fixed. Read the full article below:
Listen to our Podcast episode: Point/Counterpoint between Homeowner and Roofer
November 11, 2021
The roofing contractor has thoroughly explained to the homeowner that switching from box vents or wind turbines to ridge vents is a significant attic exhaust vent improvement – based on the shape of the roof. The homeowner has one final question: “Will my roof last longer if I make the switch?” Here’s how Daniel White, Roof Life of Oregon, Tigard, OR responded. Read the full article below:
Listen to our Podcast episode: Point/Counterpoint between Homeowner and Roofer
November 4, 2021
It’s perfectly reasonable for a homeowner to question the roofing contractor’s recommendation to improve the attic exhaust vents. We did just that in our roleplay as we took the part of homeowner. We questioned the reasoning to change from box vents or wind turbines to ridge vents. Here’s how Daniel White, Roof Life of Oregon, Tigard, OR responded. Read the full article below:
Listen to our Podcast episode: Point/Counterpoint between Homeowner and Roofer
October 21, 2021
“Are you telling me all these years the wind turbines on my roof have been leaving pockets of dead air spaces and I’d be better off with ridge vents?”
How did Daniel White, Roof Life of Oregon, in Tigard, OR, respond? Read the full article below:
Listen to our Podcast episode: Point/Counterpoint between Homeowner and Roofer
October 7, 2021
“You have a section here called ‘attic ventilation’ and I see listed something called ‘ridge vent’ and there is also ‘soffit vents’ listed. I already have three or four wind turbines on my roof. Why don’t you just give me brand new wind turbines since that’s what’s already up there?”
How did the roofing contractor reply? Read the full article below:
Listen to our Podcast episode: Point/Counterpoint between Homeowner and Roofer
September 30, 2021
Listen to our Podcast episode: Handling a Negative Customer Review
August 13, 2021
Podcast: Airing it Out with Air Vent, Episode 14: Homeowner’s Energy Bill Cut 25% Thanks to Attic Ventilation
August 6, 2021
Listen to our Podcast episode: Getting Insurance to Pay to Bring the Attic Ventilation Up to Code
Use the handy “Working with Insurance Checklist”
May 13, 2021
April 7, 2021
March 11, 2021
October 8, 2020
Read the full article
May 14, 2020
Read the full article
OCTOBER 17, 2019
Read the full article
The Air Vent Homeowner Hut—a dedicated place for tips, ideas, and resources for the homeowner. If you would like to submit your innovative idea, clever home improvement tip, or other homeowner resource to be featured here, reach out to us on our Facebook page. Use the links below to sort through our Homeowner content:
Homeowner Tips
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Tip for Homeowners: Give Yourself a Fighting Chance Against Ice Dams |
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“I know one house that won’t have ice dams this year! The homeowner already vented the ridge of the roof (attic exhaust ventilation) and now they will have cool air intake (attic intake ventilation) that never really existed before even though it looked like it did! See the photos. The attic is properly insulated.” – Sabrina Johnson, KDCO Home Improvement, Inc., Akron, OH. Homeowners, an important step in a 3-part defense against ice dams is proper attic ventilation: intake and exhaust. |
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Tip for Homeowners: This Tool Can Help You Find a Contractor |
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To help with your search for a roofing contractor, Air Vent offers this Contractor Locator resource. Enter your zip code/postal code and a list of contractors in your area will appear. If you do not see a contractor listed for your area, email Paul Scelsi and he’ll try to help you find one. Don’t forget to ask your roofing contractor to make sure your attic ventilation is balanced 50% intake airflow and 50% exhaust airflow. |
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Tip for Homeowners: Check Attic INTAKE & EXHAUST Vents |
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“This roof does not have enough attic intake ventilation or enough exhaust ventilation. And the intake venting that it did have was blocked inside the attic by the insulation. Also, the bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans are not working correctly in this duplex with two large families.” – Ryan Esquivel, Keith Green Construction, Aloha, OR. Unfortunately, a concerning percentage of today’s homes do not have correct attic ventilation. We examined the issue in our podcast episode Additional Resources: |
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Tip for Homeowners: Don’t Cut the Life of Your Shingles Short |
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“These photos show a 50-year shingle after 22 years. How much money was really saved by not including proper attic ventilation of intake and exhaust vents when the new roof was installed?†asks Jerry Becker, Roof Life of Oregon, Tigard, OR. We examined the shortened life of shingles as a direct result of incorrect attic ventilation in our podcast episode “Improper Attic Ventilation Reduces Shingle Life 24%.†Listen here |
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Tip for Homeowners: Do You Know Where the Bath Fan Moisture Goes? |
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Home inspectors and roofing contractors are increasingly red flagging incorrect bathroom fan ductwork. Where is the ductwork taking the moisture? Where does the bathroom ductwork terminate? If the ductwork does not remove the bathroom moisture correctly to the outdoors it could lead to trouble like the photos from Trevor Atwell show. Our podcast interview with Barry Sigler, Barry Sigler Inspections, Canton, OH reveals 3 common mistakes he witnesses with bathroom fan ductwork. |
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Tip for Homeowners: Fight Ice Dams with a 3-Part Plan |
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Homeowners can work with roofing professionals to fight the formation of ice dams – and the resulting damage they cause – with a 3-part plan.
Thank you to Tim Chapin, Your Safe and Healthy Home, Akron, OH, for finding and sharing these examples of ice dams. |
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Tip for Homeowners: Switching to Ridge Vents Could Help Your Roof Last Longer |
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Homeowners should question the roofing estimate from the roofing contractor, including the attic ventilation section. In the role play in this podcast episode you’ll hear pointed questions from the homeowner about the scope of work for the project. Are the contractor’s answers sufficient? |
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Tip for Homeowners: Adding a 2nd Type of Attic Exhaust WILL NOT Help Remove Heat Buildup |
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“This roof already had ridge vents from the previous roof replacement. But the HVAC contractor recommended adding a solar power fan because the ridge vents were not moving enough air.†Mixing types of exhaust vents is never the correct answer because it short-circuits the attic ventilation system. Instead, homeowners should check if there is enough intake ventilation at the soffit/low on the roof, make sure the openings for the ridge vent are proper, and confirm that ridge vents are best suited for the roof’s shape/design. But never mix or combine different types of attic exhaust vents on the same roof above a common attic. |
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Tip for Homeowners: Attic Ventilation Helped Lower the Energy Bill 25% |
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While the energy savings resulting from balanced attic ventilation will vary, for this homeowner it was 25%. In this one-on-one podcast interview with Khaled Kazmi, roof specialist at Precision Roof Crafters, Houston, TX, you’ll hear his findings from the attic inspection including insulation blocking the intake vents, sweating ductwork and excessively high temperatures. You’ll enjoy the text message from the happy homeowner, too. Rely on proper attic ventilation to help fight heat buildup and reduce your energy bill. |
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Tip for Homeowners: Don’t Cut the Life of Your Roof Shingles Short 24% |
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Our poll of residential roofing contractors across North America revealed improper intake and exhaust attic ventilation can reduce the service life of shingles 24%. Evidence of this includes brittle shingles, premature dry-out, and extreme to complete granule loss (as found in this photo by Bill Corley, Style Exteriors by Corley, Oak Lawn, IL). Getting a new roof is the perfect time to evaluate if your attic has enough ventilation.
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Tip for Homeowners: Don’t Let Paint Block the Airflow into the Attic |
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A fresh coat of paint on the house exterior can improve its look. So can a brand new paint color. Just be sure the paint is not clogging the intake vents. In the photo found and shared here by Daniel White, Roof Life of Oregon, Tigard, OR, the paint is significantly clogging the intake vents. That significantly reduces the incoming airflow into the attic. Proper attic ventilation needs to be a balanced system of intake vents and exhaust vents to effectively fight heat, moisture and ice dams. Keep an eye on the intake vents to be sure they are not painted over.
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Tip for Homeowners: Before Buying the House, Check Inside the Attic |
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“The homeowner bought this house not knowing that the cut-outs for the attic exhaust vents (roof louvers/box vents) were roofed over. The homeowner also did not know that intake vents were blocked by the attic insulation inside the attic. Basically, there was zero attic ventilation. We noticed the attic had been treated for mold. When it was time to replace this roof, no other contractors asked to go into the attic before submitting a roofing proposal.” – Ryan Esquivel, Keith Green Construction, Aloha, OR
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Tip for Homeowners: Don’t Be Fooled by the Intake Vents You Think You See |
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Homeowners, double-check your soffit panels in your overhang or ask your roofing contractor to look. Unfortunately, what appears to be fully vented soffit is significantly blocked by the solid portions of soffit on the other side. It should be 100% clear and free beyond the fully vented soffit so the essential intake air can enter the attic. It’s the intake air combined with the exhaust ventilation high on the roof or at the peak that combines to fight heat and moisture buildup inside the attic. No one will know it’s wrong unless it’s checked. Thank you for checking this and sharing it, Samantha Prier, Vision Construction Co. LLC, Olathe, KS. |
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Tip for Homeowners: Contractor Locator Helps You Find a Roofer |
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Homeowners, if you’re looking for a roofing contractor to replace your roof or inspect its condition, use this handy tool Contractor Locator. It’s a zip code/postal code-based listing of contractors in your area. If you don’t see a contractor listed for your area, email Paul Scelsi and he’ll try to help you find one. Be sure to ask the roofing contractor to check that your attic ventilation is balanced with proper intake and exhaust vents based on your attic’s square footage (length x width floor of the attic). |
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Tip for Homeowners: Ask Your Insurance Company to Pay for Proper Attic Ventilation. |
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Homeowners, when you are working with your insurance company to replace a storm-damaged roof, ask to include the cost for proper attic ventilation. We’ve bundled various 3rd-party resources to assist with your claim. Find them all on one page here. Additional Resources: |
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Tip for Homeowners: Help restore our Earth every day. |
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Earth Day is April 22 every year. Here are some ideas to help make every day Earth Day.
For more ideas
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Tip for Homeowners: Decorative |
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“This wind turbine pumpkin became a big hit in the office.” – Katherine Wilson Belton MO We like Katherine. Fall or spring or anytime of year. Very creative! |
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Be Careful Installing Attic Insulation. You Don’t Want to Block the Intake Vents in the Soffit. |
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When insulation is added to the attic feeding the exhaust vents high on the roof at or near the peak. If the intake airflow is blocked they cannot work. “We installed this roof 18 years ago. Someone came along recently and added insulation tight to the bottom of the roof deck. The lack of intake ventilation contributed to significant wood rot.” – Ron Bastian Richfield WI. |
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Excessive Moisture in Your Attic Can be Problematic in the Winter. Troubles Include Mold and Poor Indoor Air Quality. |
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The same moisture we generate in the summer living inside our homes (through cooking the attic is now colder and the moisture is attracted to it. If it’s excessive and/or it remains in the attic too long showering etc.) becomes problematic when the calendar says winter. Unlike the summer months
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Avoid Winter Moisture Buildup Inside Your Attic. Balanced Attic Ventilation Can Help Prevent the Damage. |
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Through activities like cooking dryer attic where it can become a problem. A balanced system of attic exhaust and intake vents can help fight this. the average family of four generates 2 to 4 gallons of water vapor DAILY. In the winter this moisture is attracted to the colder |
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Ice Dams vs. Roofs. Give Your Roof a Fighting Chance Against Mother Nature |
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Completely eliminating ice dams is likely not possible. But there are steps you can take to reduce their frequency and severity. |
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Fighting Ice Dams? Don’t Let Your Solution Ignore the Problem |
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Raking may clear the snow from your roof. Heat tape may melt the ice near your roof’s edge. But have you SOLVED the reason the ice dams are forming in the first place? |
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Cold Hard Facts about Ice Dams: Your Attic Needs Proper Insulation and Ventilation |
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Making a home’s living space more energy efficient with improved doors and windows could inadvertently contribute to ice dams if the attic insulation and ventilation is not also considered. |
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Homeowner Alert: Roofers Will Walk Away if You Won’t Allow Them to Do it Right |
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Homeowner
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Homeowner Alert: Price Should Not be the Bottom Line |
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Homeowner
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Homeowner Alert: Your Roofer Has Something to Tell You |
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The reason quality-conscious roofing contractors discuss attic ventilation with homeowners is the potential energy savings it can yield
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Homeowners check the attic intake vents first… |
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…after checking the attic intake vents
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Homeowners for example by adding a power fan is a mistake. |
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No matter how hot the attic is
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Homeowners |
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Attics will be hot in the summer
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Homeowners avoid these mistakes. |
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In an effort to help improve the home’s air conditioning system
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Homeowner Alert: Another Reason Homeowner’s Insurance Should Pay to Get the Attic Ventilation Up to Code |
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When Homeowner’s Insurance agrees to pay the full cost to bring attic ventilation up to code during an approved roof replacement claim
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Homeowner Alert: Your Roofer Has Something to Tell You |
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When we reached out to residential roofing contractors across North America asking them what they’d like to tell homeowners about attic ventilation prior to starting a roofing project
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May 4, 2020
When homeowner’s insurance asks you to re-use the existing attic exhaust vents during a new roof installation, say “No!"
Neither the attic ventilation manufacturer nor the shingle manufacturer recommend re-using the existing attic exhaust vents when installing a new roof. It’s a recipe for a future leak; not to mention damage during the process.
Download the full article below:
Download: Attic Airflow is a Roof's "Insurance Policy"
April 27, 2020
Another reason homeowner’s insurance should cover the cost of proper attic ventilation for a claim-approved, storm-damaged roof replacement: Shingle Warranty.
To receive the full terms of the shingle warranty for a brand new roof, it must have proper attic ventilation. We have an entire document focused on helping homeowners secure insurance approval for attic ventilation costs.
Download the full article below:
Download: Attic Airflow is a Roof's "Insurance Policy"
April 13, 2020
Why should homeowner's insurance cover the cost of proper attic ventilation for a claim-approved, storm-damaged roof replacement?
Why should homeowner's insurance cover the cost of proper attic ventilation for a claim-approved, storm-damaged roof replacement? Because building code calls for proper attic ventilation. We have an entire document focused on helping homeowners secure insurance approval for attic ventilation. Download it below:
Download: Attic Airflow is a Roof's "Insurance Policy"
April 6, 2020
Homeowner Self-Help Attic Ventilation Inspection Checklist
Homeowners, to assist your roofing contractor, complete the questions in this attic inspection checklist and share the results. This checklist will help you and your contractor identify potential problems with your attic ventilation system and ensure these issues are properly addressed during the roofing project. Consider taking your own photos and sharing them with your contractor.
Download: Homeowner Self-Help Attic Ventilation Inspection
March 30, 2020
Homeowner Alert: Attic Airflow is a Roof's "Insurance Policy"
Proper attic ventilation helps a residential roof meet its life expectancy because it helps to fight summertime heat buildup, wintertime moisture buildup and ice dams in snow regions. Additionally, the full terms of the shingle warranty are tied to proper attic ventilation and building code clearly specifies proper attic ventilation. And yet, during our best practices in residential attic ventilation seminars for roofing professionals across North America increasingly we’re hearing, “Homeowner’s Insurance refuses to pay the cost for the attic ventilation and so the homeowner is asking us to skip it; which means the brand-new roof will not have proper attic ventilation.”
Click the link below to read the fill report
Download: Attic Airflow is a Roof's "Insurance Policy"
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Tip for Homeowners: Be Careful Painting the Intake Vents |
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Painted-over intake vents can significantly reduce the airflow through the vents. Avoid clogging/restricting the intake into your attic. Thank you for sharing this, Trevor Atwell from Atwell Exterior Services, LLC, Greenville, NC. |
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Survey Says...Many residential attics could benefit from improved attic ventilation |
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In our poll of residential roofing contractors across North America, 77% of the homes today have improper attic ventilation, including not enough or incorrect ventilation. It only makes sense, then, that the roofing contractor brings it up during the estimating process for your new roof. If the contractor doesn’t, that should be a red flag to you. |
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Tip for Homeowners: "A Word of Caution about Humidifiers" |
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Double-check the settings when using humidifiers. Common household models can add over 15 gallons of moisture to your home daily, which can be challenging for the attic ventilation system to handle. Check out "A Word of Caution about Humidifiers" shared by a roofing contractor. |
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Homeowner Alert: Your Roofer Has Something to Tell You |
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Industry Tips: What Homeowners Should Know About Attic Ventilation |
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One of our most popular handouts at the annual Air Vent "Ask the Expert" Seminars. Making the Top Five list for homeowners: Exhaust without Intake is useless. |
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| Download: What Homeowners Should Know About Attic Ventilation |
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Tip for Homeowners: Do not mix exhaust types |
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 View on Facebook |
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Tip for Homeowners: Find a creative use for old wind turbines. |
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| View on Facebook |
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Roofing projects are not just about the price. |
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