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Jan 24, 2020
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Attic & Home Ventilation Systems Explained

Attic ventilation is a concept that few homeowners give much thought to. However, if not properly addressed, an attic can soon become an odorous and moldy space.  Inadequate levels of  home ventilation system can also speed up the lifespan of your roof shingles by trapping heat and moisture.  Roofing manufacturers have stringent parameters governing the levels of ventilation that must be used in tandem with their shingles.  Failure to adhere to these recommendations can void the roof manufacturer’s warranty.

cellulose insulation

Partnering with a reputable insulation and ventilation contractor is a key component to ensuring your attic ventilation project is successfully completed, as the best approach varies from home to home.  When deciding which contractor to use for your project, be sure to ask them to clearly explain the types of exhaust vents they are using and why.

An Introduction To Roof Vents

Roof vents can be broken into two major categories, intake and exhaust vents.  Intake vents are located at the lower part of the roof and allow cooler air to permeate the attic.  Exhaust vents are at the peak of the roof and provide a location for hot air to exit the attic.  Here are key facts about each type of roof ventilation.

Types of Intake Vents:

Soffit Vents

Soffit vents are installed on the bottom of a home’s eaves.  Fresh cool air is pulled in at the base of a roof and the warm, moist air is emitted through the attic ventilation at the peak of the roof.

Gable Vents

Gable vents are most commonly found on the ends of the house.  Typically, vents are louvered.  This allows the gable vents to permit air from being pulled out of the attic space while still preventing snow and rain from entering the attic.

Types of Exhaust Vents:

Ridge Vents:

Ridge vents are installed at the peak of a roof.  Their primary function is to allow moist, toasty air an escape route from a building’s attic.  Before installing a ridge vent, a small area of roof decking is removed from both sides of the ridgeline to permit the movement of air through the vent.  Reputable contractors take special care to ensure that the ridge vent’s functionality is not disrupted by any of the home’s framework.

Ridge Vent

Static Roof Vents:

Comprised of metal or plastic, static vents are available in an array of colors to complement your home.  For maximum effectiveness, they should be installed in close proximity to the ridge of the roof.  This configuration ensures that the highest possible amount of moisture and heat have the ability to exit, as the roof vents are absent of moving parts.  It is often necessary to have numerous static vents on a roof in order to be effective.

Powered Exhaust Roof Vents

Also known as powered exhaust vents, these vents are accompanied with sizable motors that turn large fans in order to expel warm, moist air, out of the attic.  Some models contain programmable thermostats and humidistats that cause the fan to start at a certain temperature. Current models quietly function which is beneficial from a soundproofing standpoint but can make it harder to detect if the fan has stopped running.

Watch Our Attic Ventilation Contractors In Action:

Insulation and Ventilation Projects:

Insulation and Ventilation Reviews:

"We hired Lindus for attic insulation and new LeafGuard® Gutters. We had an issue arise a couple years after the work was completed. I called Lindus and had no problem scheduling someone to review and create a plan. Randal has worked diligently to get to the bottom of the problem and fix it permanently. The company truly does stand by their product, a claim that is not always realized, but with Lindus has proven to be true. I am so appreciative and would recommend them to anyone."

Sarah W.
Edina, MN
May 30, 2022

"The crew did a great job - and cleaned up every day! Love that. Very courteous and explained everything."

Janis H.
Hammond, WI
May 21, 2022

"On two occasions, Randall was at my house involving insulation issues.  He knows the business, is easy to work with, and I think he is a great asset to your company."

Mary W.
Maple Grove, MN
May 2, 2022

"Excellent and efficient work. Thankful that the Lindus crew was accommodating to our needs as homeowners and for their communication throughout."

Christian
Bloomington, MN
April 19, 2022

"Had Lindus blow in foam insulation into attic, what a difference it’s made! The house is noticeably warmer in the winter and my furnace is not running nearly as much as before. I know it will also help keep the house cool in the summer heat. They also installed some new windows and exterior trim. Everything turned out really well. Corey Hessler was fantastic in dealing with from start to finish and answered all my questions. Everyone I dealt with from Lindus, especially Corey, were kind and professional. In today’s day and age you get what you pay for. Lindus really delivers!"

Robert M.
Cottage Grove, MN
March 25, 2022

"Lindus insulated our attic and basement. They came on time, communicated well and didn't leave a mess behind."

Leslie S.
St. Paul, MN
March 15, 2019
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