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ATTIC
VENTILATION
Most
building codes require roof vents to expel moisture that could
cause insulation or other building materials to deteriorate during
winter. In summer, ventilation may reduce roof temperatures, thus
lengthening a roof’s life. However, researchers are investigating
whether attic ventilation is beneficial for all climates. For
years, researchers have believed the cooling benefits of ventilating
a well-insulated attic are negligible. Some experts also question
whether ventilation effectively removes moisture. Until the research
results are available and accepted, builders should follow local
code requirements, which usually dictate attic ventilation. A
combination of continuous ridge vent along the peak of the roof
and continuous soffit vents at the eaves provides the most effective
ventilation. A rule of thumb is to use 1 sq. ft. of net vent opening
for every 150 sq. ft. of insulated ceiling or 1:300 if the insulation
has a vapor barrier. Vent area should be divided equally between
the ridge and soffits. Cap vents and gable vents can supplement
a roof design that has insufficient ridge vent area. Turbine vents
can also be used, although they require annual maintenance. Electrically
powered roof ventilators are not recommended because they consume
more energy than they save. Powered vents can also remove conditioned
air from a home through ceiling leaks and bypasses, pull pollutants
from the crawlspace into a home, and cause exhaust gases from
fireplaces and combustion appliances to enter a home.
Next:
ATTIC VENTILATION
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