How many roof vents do I need?
Requirements depend on several factors
When it comes to attic ventilation, the number of vents you need can vary depending on the size of your attic and the type of ventilation system you have. The most common type of attic ventilation is passive, which relies on natural air flow to ventilate the attic space. To determine the optimal number of vents for your roof, you'll need to take a few factors into consideration.
Measure the size of your attic
First, you'll want to consider the size of your attic. The larger the attic, the more vents you'll need to ensure proper ventilation. As a general rule, you should have at least one square foot (144 square inches) of ventilation for every 300 square feet of attic space. So, for example, if your attic is 1,500 square feet, you would need at least 5 square feet (about 750 square inches) of ventilation.
Check your vent specifications
Another factor to consider is the type of vents you're using. There are several types of vents, including soffit vents, box vents, and ridge vents. Each type of vent serves a specific purpose and will have a different measure of NFA (Net Free Area, a measure of the flow of each vent). You will need to balance exhaust and intake evenly as well as ensuring the NFA of the vent you are using will provide enough airflow through your attic. Try our easy-to-use roof vent calculator to see the recommended amount of vents for your roof.
Consider your climate
Finally, you'll want to consider the climate in your area. In hotter climates where humidity can be a problem, slightly more vents may be needed to allow hot air to escape, while in colder climates where heat loss is the bigger problem, slightly fewer vents may be needed to prevent heat loss.
How many vents do you need?
The optimal number of roof vents depends on the size of your attic, the type of vents you're using, and the climate in your area. Typically more vents are better than less and the general 1/300 square feet recommendation does not need to be followed strictly. It's always a good idea to consult with a roofing professional to ensure that you have the right number and type of vents for your specific situation.
SNOWVENTCO Snow Vents
Upper Roof Exhaust Vent
Install near roof peak to allow warm air to escape. Blocks 99% of snow, diverts rain.
Lower Roof Intake Vent
Suitable for use in place of soffit vents. Blocks 99% of snow, effectively diverts rain.
Skylite Exhaust Vent
Perfect for sheds and garages to allow light in while keeping moisture out.
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Learn How to Install SNOWVENTCO Snow Vents
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Frequently Asked Questions
Roof vents are necessary in order to improve the ventilation in your attic. Adequate ventilation helps to remove excess heat and moisture from your attic, which can prolong the life of your roof and prevent damage to your attic and the rest of your home. Additionally, proper ventilation can help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can be a health hazard.
There is no one "best" roof ventilation system as the appropriate system will depend on the specific needs of your home and roof. Roof vents are generally divided into active or passive systems with each system having its pros and cons.
The number of roof vents you need will depend on the size and layout of your attic. A general rule of thumb is to have 1 square foot (144 square inches) of vent area for every 150 square feet of attic space. For example, if your attic is 900 square feet, you would need 864 square inches (6 square feet X 144) of vent area. Additionally, it's important to make sure that your vents are properly placed and balanced, with an equal amount of intake and exhaust vents. This will ensure that air is flowing effectively through your attic and not creating pressure that could cause leaks or damage to the roof. Try our roof vent calculator to find the right amount of vents for your roof.
Installing roof vents can be a complex task that requires a certain level of skill and experience. It is recommended that you hire a professional roofing contractor to install your vents, as they will have the knowledge and tools necessary to do the job safely and correctly. However, if you're determined to install them yourself, take a look at our installation video for a step by step demonstration.
No, determined vermin will have a difficult time chewing through the heavy duty plastic outer shell which is much thicker than typical roof vents. If they are able to chew through the plastic they will not be able to get through the stainless steel filter. This will restrict attic access through the vent openings.
Roof vents can breathe under snow, but it depends on the amount of snow and the type of vent. SNOWVENTCO Storm Vents have been tested to allow for airflow even under heavy snowfall conditions. See the link below for video proof.
Yes, the low profile and aerodynamic design of SNOWVENTCO vents combined with heavy duty polymer outer shell mean the SNOWVENTCO vents are very resistant to high winds. Our vents have undergone testing showing that they prevent over 99% of rain, snow, and other particle penetration of attic in CAT 3 hurricane wind conditions. They are also durable enough to stay intact when faced with 120 mph winds.
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