Installing Roof Vents – Minneapolis Roofing Contractor

 
Are there areas of your home or attic that are really humid, hot, or stuffy? Any dark, hot, and humid enclosed space means two problems: mold and mildew. This is extremely common in basements and attics, particularly during warmer seasons. Most home owners know that mold and mildew can be extremely hazardous, dangerous, and costly to any home.
 
The good news is there is a way to help prevent this by installing roof vents. Roof vents will vent moisture out of any enclosed space, particularly an attic, and they are relatively easy to install. Here are some do-it-yourself tips on how to install one. If these tips don’t help you can always call a local Minneapolis roofing contractor to help out.

Roof Vent Materials

 
To install a roof vent, only a few materials and tools are needed. Roof vents can be either metal or plastic, depending on the preference of the home owner. You will also need a saw, extra shingles, caulk, roofing nails, roofing cement, and a hammer. You may also need a broom handy to sweep up extra materials and debris after installation.

How Many Roof Vents Do You Need?

 
The first step before installing a roof vent is to determine how many you need. This can vary upon roof and attic size. If your attic only consumes half your house, then you probably only need to install one roof vent.

If your attic spans through the length of your house and roof, then you may need to consider installing at least two…depending on the overall square footage of your home, of course. A professional roofing contractor can determine the appropriate amount of vents needed for your home.

Once you’ve determined how many you want to install, be sure to mark where you plan on placing them. You can do this by hammering a nail from the inside of your attic so it shows through the shingles on the outside. Remember that roof vents should be placed evenly from one another. You should also avoid installing a roof vent over a rafter, and avoid installing near electrical or cable wires.

Start Cutting

 
Once you are sure and have clearly marked where you want to install your roof vents, it’s time to begin cutting the shingles in that area. Be sure to measure the size of your roof vent so you know how much of an area to cut. You should easily be able to cut the shingles you want to remove off with a knife. Once you have removed the shingles, begin cutting through the roof with a saw.
 
Before dropping your new roof vent into the hole you just cut out, be sure to loosen the shingles surrounding the area. This will allow you to place the edges of the roof vents, or the flange, underneath the surrounding shingles, securing the edges.

Sealing Your Roof

 
Once all the nails have been hammered in their designated spots around the flange, it’s time to apply the roof caulking around the each of the nails and secure the shingles back in their homes. Use caulking and apply around each of the nails you just finished putting in. Then, use roofing cement and apply under each of the shingles you loosened in order to place in the roofing vent. It’s important to secure the shingles so they don’t come loose over time.
 
Installing a roof vent is fairly straight forward and can be tackled by most home owners. It doesn’t require too many tools and materials, and is relatively inexpensive. However, if you need advice or help, or are nervous about tackling the job on your own, contact your local roofing contractor. If you’re in the Minneapolis – St. Paul area give Stinson Services, Inc. a call – 952-933-4510
 
 

Here’s a quick video to give you an idea of how a typical roof vent is installed.