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Ridge ventilation system on rooftop.

What Is a Ridge Vent?

Bondoc Team

Posted By: Bondoc Team

Posted Date

03/11/2022

Well-maintained roof ventilation system is a make or break to your roof’s longevity, waterproofing your roofing system to keep out damp and avoid damages, and, of course, the energy efficiency or your home.

So what is a ridge vent?

And how can it benefit your roof?

A ridge vent along with intake vents are a part of the greater ventilation system which ensures that excess heat and dampness are reduced during the hot summers in San Antonio, TX. 

The structure of your home needs to aerate and breathe continually as most of the heat from a house builds up in the attic due to convection. Ridge vents, typically installed at the top of the roof and paired with intake soffits, help to cool your home. They also help to prevent roofing issues by eliminating vapor.

Proper ventilation prevents mold and moisture from damaging your roof shingles. When it gets cold in winter, the vents can also reduce the freeze-thaw effect on your roof and prevent the formation of ice and water dams.

If you suspect that your attic is not ventilated correctly, schedule a roof & ventilation inspection with a Professional Roofing Contractor in San Antonio, TX. For now, read along and get informed on all of the ins and outs of ridge vents.

How Is a Ridge Vent Installed?

Closeup to asphalt shingle roof with ridge vent installed.

A ridge vent acts as an exhaust outlet for the attic. It is installed by first cutting an air slot in the deck area at the peak of the roof. The ridge vent is designed to cover the slot completely. 

This mechanism ensures constant and adequate ventilation to the top portion of the attic space. The vents are very sturdy and are designed to provide resistance against extreme heat, storms, rain, snow, debris, and pest infestations. 

Ridge cap shingles cover the ridge vents to protect them. They also serve to hide ridge vents and provide a clean appearance to the roof. If you are using metal ridge vents, installing the cap shingles on top might be unnecessary.

How Does a Ridge Vent Work?

A balanced ventilation system helps to create a continuous, smooth flow of air in and out of the attic space. In order to accomplish this task, ridge vents work together with soffit and eave vents.

Soffit and eave vents are typically installed in the overhang of the roof, over the exterior wall. These vents help bring dry, cool air into the lower space within the attic. 

As the air heats up, it rises slowly and is pushed out through the ridge vent. This is a very efficient system; it keeps the air healthy in the attic without utilizing any energy. 

A roof is not often inspected or maintained. If you are unsure about the condition of your ridge vents, schedule an inspection with a nearby roofer. They will examine your roof thoroughly and address any issues early on.

Do You Need a Ridge Vent?

Close up view of ridge vent installed on asphalt shingle rooftop.

Ridge vents can effectively provide your attic with adequate ventilation. Key factors to consider are the amount of attic ventilation present and the design of your roof. 

If you have a finished attic with air conditioning, the space might need a mechanical moisture and heat exhaust system. A certified roofing contractor in San Antonio, TX, can determine the most efficient way to keep your attic well-aerated and cool.

Having a sound ridge vent system can have many advantages, including:

  • Reduced cooling costs
  • Increased protection against roofing issues
  • Prevention of mold growth and moisture in the attic
  • Maintenance of the manufacturer’s warranty for shingles

Ridge vents can be an economical way to ensure that your roof and home are safer all through the year. A nearby roofer can advise you on whether ridge vents are the right solution for your roof.

How Much Venting Will You Need?

When estimating the venting needed for an attic, the Federal Housing Administration recommends one square foot of ventilation for every 300 square feet of ceiling area. A trusted local roofing company can install vents in suitable locations to ensure continuous, unobstructed airflow into and out of the attic. 

Hiring a certified contractor to install ridge vents is crucial. You must adhere to local building codes, rules, and regulations. The amount of ridge ventilation and intake ventilation you use should be considered very carefully to achieve balanced ventilation.

Trusted and Exceptional Roofing Services in San Antonio, TX

Ridge vents are best installed by a professional. One of the most common questions that roofers encounter is, “What is a ridge vent?” From answering all of your questions to providing you with the most personalized and affordable solutions, Bondoc Roofing will gladly address all of your roofing needs.

Aerial view of asphalt shingle roofing installation with ridge vents.

Bondoc Roofing — Expertise and Reliability Like No Other

As a family-owned company, we take pride in what we do and how we do it. We offer our customers high-quality services at affordable prices. From roof installations to repairs and replacements, our team is ready to deliver safe and effective solutions for your home’s needs. 

All of our roofers are highly trained, licensed, and insured. No job is too big or too small — at Bondoc Roofing, we treat every job with an exceptional level of care and attention. 

From providing clear, upfront costs to ensuring timely services and quality workmanship, we have been serving local customers in San Antonio for over two decades.

Contact Bondoc Roofing today to talk to us about your unique roofing needs!

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