Attic Ventilation – December 10, 2009
new perimeter venting
opening at soffit
1" holes w/ wire mesh vent system
Attic ventilation systems in older buildings (circa 1937) really didn’t do much to keep attics properly ventilated. A lack of exhaust vents added to the problem. Good ventilation practices decrease mold and mildew and improve the air quality of homes. Properly installed exhaust vents at roof ridge areas provide an escape route of hot attic air. A generous system of both intake and exhaust vents solves this problem.
I found using galvanized louvered vents with attached insect screens the most sturdy solution. First, I removed all the old wood vents (with drilled holes) including a significant additional portion of wood trim blocks by knocking them out from the attic side.
Then, with a the use of a scissor lift I prepared the new soffit openings by adding nailers to the underside of the roof deck. After that I screwed the new vent along with a matching flat galvanized piece of sheet metal to make up the uneven rafter spacing. Finally, I used silicone based caulk to seal edges and screws to make weatherproof and give the system a long life.
The above method allows for a systematic procedure that could be modified as required and the ability to replace any section easily. The resultant increase in air flow also allowed me to make improvements in the attic area without passing out due to lack of proper ventilation.