Installing Roof Vents

An effective way to make the most of your Ductless Split AC System is to maximize the value of your attic insulation by installing soffit and roof vents. These vents almost always are installed in pairs, as this allows for better air circulation. And improved air circulation in an attic space is one way to avoid heat buildup that can both damage the structure of the house as well as prevent heat from escaping from the spaces underneath the attic.

To install the soffit vents, first mark and drill guide holes from inside your attic. Try to get as close to the edge of the roof as possible in order to select the best location for the vent, which should be between joists and free of any wires. If you can’t get close enough to the edge, then drill the guide holes from the outside, using a stud finder to locate any joists.

Then, trace the soffit vent and make sure that it will fall between any nailer strips or rafters. Cut the opening with a saber saw, taking care to make the opening about ¼-inch smaller than the lines you traced so that the vent can be attached to the soffit.

Install the soffit vent in the hole and attach with wood screws. Repeat the above steps until you have successfully installed all of the vents you want.

For the roof vents, choose a location from inside your attic that is as high as possible on the roof, yet below the ridgeline. Position roof vents away from the street so that they are not seen. Drive a nail through the center of where the vent will go so that you can easily spot it once you are on the roof.

Cut the vent hole after using a roofing knife to remove the shingles just above and to the sides of where you will make the cut. Use a spade drill bit to make your guide holes. Use a reciprocating saw to make the vent hole cut.

Install the vent by placing a bead of roof cement on the underside of the vent’s flange. Attach the vent with galvanized roofing nails. Cover all nails and seams between the vent base and roof with roof cement. Repeat the above steps until you have installed all roof vents.

More questions about roof venting? Contact AC World today!