Attic Ventilation
Balance is the key to having an efficient attic ventilation system. When balanced, a properly designed ventilation system will assure a continuous supply of air moves through the attic space, fighting off heat and moisture. Calculating the correct number of exhaust and intake vents is simple and will ensure you have an effective, balanced system.
Proper ventilation conserves energy all year long, while improper attic ventilation is one of the most common energy-wasters in homes today.
During hot summer months, it is not uncommon for a poorly ventilated attic to reach temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees. This super heated air not only speeds the deterioration of paint, roofing, and insulation, but penetrates down through the ceiling to heat the entire living area. Proper ventilation removes super heated attic air. Therefore, air conditioning systems don’t have to work as long or as hard. Cooling bills will be lower, and the cooling system will last longer.
During cold winter months, attic ventilation is equally important to reduce attic condensation. A home relies on insulation to help retain heat produced by a heating system; if insulation in an improperly ventilated attic becomes wet from moisture it becomes practically useless. This allows heat to escape through the attic, a waste of money and energy. To ensure proper attic ventilation it is important to keep air moving — a complete exchange of attic air should take place every six minutes.
The first step in determining how many vents you need is to calculate the Net Free Area (NFA) required. Most codes use the 1/300 rule for minimum residential attic ventilation recommendations. This means that for every 300 square feet of enclosed attic space, 1 square foot of ventilation is required – with half at the upper portion (exhaust vents) and half in the lower portion (intake vents). This formula is traditionally used for static roof vents which are rated for Net Free Area in terms of square inches.
There are many different types of attic spaces in Winnipeg. Agassiz Roofing has seen them all, and can recommended the best solution for each space. Some homes have split attic spaces which will need more caution when selecting roofing vents. Many of the older homes in River Heights or St. James don’t have proper soffit intake vents. We would be glad to assess and educate you on the best type for your home. Just as there are many different types of attic spaces, there are many different types of vents to accommodate each such as: ridge vents, pot vents, turbine vents, and solar vents.
We’re dedicated to meet your exterior project needs, as well as budget. Specializing in full service exterior renovations including: roofing, soffit, fascia, eavestroughing, and siding. Let us assist you, in completing your project needs. If you’re looking to request a FREE estimate on any of our services in Winnipeg, head over to our Estimate page and we’ll get started. You can also call Agassiz Roofing directly at 204.975.9426.
Do you know someone needing our services? We offer up to a $100 GIFT CARD to refer a friend or family member to Agassiz Roofing. How does it work? Simple, head over to our Referral page and reach out to us in your preferred method. Once your friend or family member signs on with Agassiz Roofing, we’ll send the Gift Card in the mail. There’s no limit, the more people you refer, the more money you earn!
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