Let your home breathe
Wondering who installs roof vents? While you may be tempted to do it yourself, the safest way to go is to hire a local roofing company to do the job. Roofers have the training, licensing, and experience needed to install a ventilation system on your roof, without putting you at risk of leaks. Here's what you need to know about hiring a pro to install roof vents in your home.
A ventilation system is a critical component of your roofing system. One that's installed incorrectly or not installed at all puts your entire home at risk. Working with a roofer or attic fan installation pro near you will ensure that your roof's vents are installed correctly, protecting your attic from moisture buildup and mold growth. The benefits of working with a professional roofing company include:
Know-how: A licensed roofing contractor will have the knowledge required to properly install a ventilation system, based on whether you have a hot roof or cold roof. They'll be able to recommend the right types of roof vents for your home and then install them correctly.
Experience: Ideally, a roofing company will have years of experience installing roof vents and making other repairs to roofs.
Understanding of local codes: Since building codes can vary from municipality to municipality, it's important to work with a company that knows your local area and understands both international and regional building codes.
If you're a bit handy, you may consider installing roof vents yourself. However, before you roll up your sleeves and get down to DIYing roof vent installation, keep in a mind a few things:
Safety: You'll need fall protection gear to keep you safe while up on the roof, including a safety harness and hard hat. Don't attempt any roof repairs or projects without the right safety equipment.
The risk for leaks: If you don't install the vent properly or use the appropriate sealant, you run the risk of leaks developing, which can cause more moisture damage.
You need the right tools: Unless you're replacing existing roof vents with new ones, you'll likely need to cut through the shingles, which requires a jigsaw. If you don't have the tools already, it can be more cost-effective to hire a professional.
A handyperson may be able to install roof vents, but they won't have the expertise or specialized knowledge that a professional roofing company will. If you're considering using a local handyperson, ask them about their experience installing roof ventilation systems and be sure to get references from them, so you can check up on their work before you hire them.
The steps a roofer will follow when installing a roof vent depend in large part on the type of vent they're installing. Some vents are installed along the ridge of the roof, which is where the two roof planes connect. Others are installed in the soffits, which run under the roof eaves.
While the process differs slightly based on location, some things remain the same. The roofer will need to cut a hole in the existing roof to make room for the vent. They'll remove the shingles or other materials, then set the vent into the opening before replacing the shingles around it.
They repeat the process for the remaining number of vents.
