Ridge Vent

A ridge vent is installed along the highest point of the roof after a slot is cut into the roof deck. Once installed, it is covered with matching ridge cap shingles, making it blend into the roof while providing continuous exhaust ventilation.

Because warm air naturally rises, the ridge vent allows heat and moisture to escape from the attic while cooler outside air enters through the intake vents near the eaves.

Unlike individual roof vents, a ridge vent provides continuous ventilation across the roof peak rather than exhausting air from only a few locations.

How Does a Ridge Vent Work?

A ridge vent is designed to work as part of a balanced attic ventilation system.

As warm air rises inside the attic, it naturally exits through the ridge vent. At the same time, fresh outside air enters through intake vents located near the soffits. This continuous airflow helps regulate attic temperatures and remove excess moisture.

Without adequate intake ventilation, a ridge vent cannot perform as intended.

Features of Modern Ridge Vents

Today's ridge vents include features designed to improve both performance and durability.

Depending on the product, these features may include:

• External baffles that help create negative air pressure to improve airflow during windy conditions.

• Internal weather filters designed to reduce the intrusion of wind-driven rain, snow, insects, and debris.

• Durable construction designed to withstand years of weather exposure.

• A low-profile design that blends into the roof when covered with matching ridge cap shingles.

Not all ridge vents are the same. Product design and proper installation both play important roles in long-term performance.

Benefits

• Provides continuous exhaust ventilation.

• Helps remove heat from the attic.

• Helps remove excess moisture.

• Works with intake ventilation to create balanced airflow.

• Low-profile appearance.

• No moving parts.

• Helps improve the long-term performance of the roofing system.

Typical Cost

Ridge vents are commonly installed as part of a complete roof replacement.

The cost depends on the length of the roof ridge, the type of ridge vent selected, and whether additional intake ventilation is needed to create a balanced system.

Why It Matters in Michigan

Michigan experiences hot summers, cold winters, and frequent changes in temperature throughout the year.

A properly balanced ridge vent system helps remove heat during the summer and moisture during the winter, helping protect the roof deck, insulation, and other attic components. It can also help reduce conditions that contribute to ice dams when combined with proper insulation and ventilation.

Our Recommendation

At VanderLaans, we evaluate each home's attic ventilation before recommending a ridge vent system.

When the roof design and available intake ventilation are suitable, ridge vents provide excellent continuous exhaust ventilation. However, the best ventilation system depends on the home's design, attic configuration, and ventilation requirements.

Our goal is to recommend a balanced ventilation system that performs efficiently and protects your home for years to come.

Did You Know?

A ridge vent is only one part of a balanced ventilation system. Without adequate intake ventilation, even the best ridge vent cannot move enough air through the attic. That's why professional roofers evaluate the entire ventilation system, not just the exhaust vents, before making recommendations.