Proper ventilation is a necessity in every property as it expels stale and humid air out and lets the fresh, outdoor breeze circulate in your indoor space. But most homeowners overlook the role of roof vents, which is just as crucial as any other components in the rest of your humble abode. 

Ventilation plays a critical role in the longevity of your roof, especially steep-slope roofing since it maintains the optimal airflow necessary to keep your attic cool during summers and prevent ice dams from forming when winter hits. 

Seeing its part in creating a comfortable atmosphere, it goes to show that attic ventilation should be a priority when building or renovating your dream pad. And what you learn from this article here: 

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What Exhaust and Intake Roof Vents Should You Pick?

Choosing the right exhaust and intake roof vents isn’t something you should do on a whim, though! For one, the type of exhaust vents you choose can make a difference in the energy efficiency of your home. Some perform better at easing the load on your air conditioning system, though reaching maximum cost-effectiveness primarily depends on the size of your house, local climate, and building codes. 

Roof vents often come in pairs: exhaust vents and intake vents. They support each other as the exhaust vents promote cleaner air quality by dispelling fumes, moisture, and foul smells out of the house, while the intake vents moderate indoor temperatures. With all that in mind, which exhaust and intake vents suit your home the most? 

Exploring Different Types of Exhaust Roof Vents 

1. Box Vents 

One of the most common, go-to options for homeowners, you’ll often see box vents protruding from a house’s roofline. They have a simple design, but one that works effectively at letting hot, moisture-heavy air escape from your home through natural convection, especially when placed near the roof ridge.

Box vents are made from hard plastic, so they’re one of the most affordable options on the market, though you may need to get a lot since they’re not as efficient compared to other exhaust vents.

2. Wind Turbines

Also known as a whirlybird, a wind turbine vent is another old-time favorite and easily the most recognizable in this list. They’re the oldest exhaust vents, but just like wind farms and the clean power it produces, these mini wind turbines uses the breeze movement to freshen your space. 

It’s also a cost-effective option and long-lasting thanks to the wind turbine’s simple components, but keep in mind that it’s only a viable choice for places with naturally windy climates. 

3. Power Vents 

Dubbed as “attic fans” since they’re designed to improve ventilation in attic spaces, power roof vents use electricity to operate. It will need to be connected to your home’s electrical system, but the way it cools and regulates the indoor temperature makes it a handy contribution to your energy savings. 

They’re relatively small, round, and have a discreet stature, making them one of the more visually undisruptive options in the market. Power vents are also an excellent pick for homeowners who want constant ventilation no matter the weather report. 

4. Ridge Vents 

Homes with shingle roofs can benefit the most from ridge vents, which are designed to fit between the roof cap and the upper parts of the shingles. Ridge vents run along a sloped roof and are barely visible out in the streets, making them one of the best options for homeowners who want a clean curb appeal. 

Without moving parts to moderate the air circulation, you need to pair this with intake vents to perform properly. Ridge vents and intake vents are a match made in heaven, but their biggest advantage is their ability to circulate air evenly. This balanced distribution prevents hot or cold air pockets from damaging your roof structure. 

5. Hip Vents 

Modern homes without any ridgelines for the vents may need to invest in hip vents, which is perfect for hip-style roof lines that slope from all sides of the structure. As the moniker suggests, hip vents are installed along the side hip seams of the roof, though its functionality mirrors ridge vents. 

The hip vent’s similarity to ridge vents gives it a cleaner design, though it also needs to be partnered with soffit ventilation to function effectively. 

6. Cupola Vents 

Homeowners that want to take their aesthetic style through the roof can opt for cupola vents, an ornate type of roof ventilation that looks like decorative domes. Not only does cupola vents impress with its chic look, but it also provides spectacular ventilation. 

7. Gable Vents 

One of the more unique options is the gable vent, which isn’t necessarily installed on or within the roof. Instead, they’re integrated as slatted openings found below the peak of your roof that allow air to move through freely into your attic space. You can also dial up its effectiveness and cross-convention by using fans to boost airflow. 

Exploring Different Types of Intake Roof Vents 

9. Soffit Vents 

Almost every home in different neighborhoods uses soffit vents as their primary choice for intake roof vents since they’re the most effective at reducing cooling costs, all while being just as pleasing to the eye due to their clean design. 

Soffit vents are installed into the underbelly of an eave or beneath a peak, promoting more natural convection on top of being cosmetically pleasing. 

10. Fascia Vents 

Just as the name suggests, fascia vents are installed in the fascia board of your home. They have angled coverings and protrude from the board as a form of protection from inclement weather. In that regard, they’re the best choice for homes with hip-style roofs. 

The Bottom Line: The Right Roof Vents to Make Your Home Fresh and More Liveable Throughout the Changing Seasons 

If you’re still confused between the exhaust and intake roof vents, just remember this: just like taking a deep breath outdoors, intake roof vents bring fresh air indoors. On the other hand, exhaust roof vents let out hot air so your space won’t become a hot box where mold and mildew can grow. 

Now that you have some clue on the different types of exhaust and intake roof vents, you can make well-informed decisions when shopping for the ideal roof vent solution for your home. 

How Can We Help You?

Roofs are essential elements of a home and commercial space. And with that, it’s only right that you invest time and money to ensure that you’re getting the right protection you need without compromising your property’s aesthetics. Thankfully, Southern Premier Roofing is here to help.

Our company offers various roofing services such as roofing, siding, and gutter services to help elevate your home or commercial space’s aesthetics and security. 

Are you looking for a roofing company in Raleigh? Southern Premier Roofing is a roofing contractor located in several areas, Fayetteville, Hope Mills, Charlotte, and Boise. We specialize in providing our clients with all their roofing needs. Our services are guaranteed to improve your home and last in the long run. Let us know how we can help you by contacting us today!