Comparing Ridge Vents Vs Other Types of Exhaust Vents

They can be one of the most important parts of your roofing system. One that helps to keep the roof structurally sound and your home more comfortable. But many homeowners probably don’t know as much as they should about roof vents. And few could tell the difference between ridge vents vs other types of roof exhaust vents.

But if you continue reading, you don’t have to be one of them.

Ridge Vents vs Other Types of Roof Exhaust Vents

There are many different types of roof vents. Here’s a list of the most popular vents used by roof companies in Toronto.

• Box vents – Square, covered vents with no moving parts.
• Ridge vents – Long exhaust vents that are installed at the peak or ridge of the roof.
• Wind turbine vents – Metal vents with an internal turbine that helps circulate air as the wind blows.
• Power vents – Vents with a powered turbine that needs to be connected by an electrician.

The Advantages of Ridge Vents Over Other Types of Vents

Here are the two main advantages that ridge vents have over other types of vents.

1. Their Location – Roof venting works by letting in air from lower down on the roof, like through a soffit vent, and letting it out at a higher point in the roof. Ridge vents are installed at the peak of the roof, which is the highest point possible.
   
2. Their Length – In most cases, ridge vents will run the entire length of the ridge, which can be the largest ventilation opening of any vent on the roof.
3. Their Design – As wind passes over the ridge vent, it pulls air out of the attic. At the same time, fresh air is drawn into the underside of the vent, creating a better source of air circulation.
4. Their Appearance – Ridge vents blend in well with the roof line, as opposed to other types of exhaust vents which stick up from the roof.

If you enjoyed this article, check out our recent post about whether you should repair or replace your roof.