The Importance Of Ridge Caps And Vents
When you think about roof repairs or new roofing installation, ridge caps are not likely the first thing that comes to mind. But in fact, ridge caps and vents are a crucial component to every roof and should not be overlooked.
Below, we will consider why ridge caps are so important and also explain how installing a ridge vent can benefit your home.
Good Roofing Ridge Caps Are Critical
Wherever you have two roof planes coming together at an angle, you get either a peak or a valley. Since so much water flows through the roof valleys, they must be protected by extensive roof flashing networks to keep your roof dry and leak-free. With the peaks, a special covering called a ridge cap must be used.
Asphalt shingle roofing will typically also have asphalt ridge caps. It is possible to cut and fold ordinary shingles to create ridge caps, but there are also prefabricated options that will be stronger and save time on installation.
Located at the top of the roof, peaks and rake ridges (rising peaks) get excessive sun exposure and wind exposure. Ridges don’t necessarily get hit with more rain, but the danger of moisture sneaking in through the peak is very real if it’s not protected.
The best way to appreciate a ridge cap is to think about what would happen to your roof without one. Wind would pray off shingles from the top down, rain would get into the attic through the peak joint and under the shingles from above – from where it would flow down the whole length of your roof deck. Ridge caps and rake caps and the answer.
Many times, ridge caps can wear down faster than the rest of the roofing. Sun and wind take their toll over the years. Replacing ridge caps early or installing a higher grade brand to begin with can help.
What About Ridge Vents?
Increasing the ventilation in your attic helps keep attic temperatures down and boosts home energy efficiency. One way to better ventilate your home is by installing a ridge vent. The ridge cap will fit right on top of the ridge vent.
A small vent hole must be cut along the whole length of the roof ridge. Then, a metal or plastic ridge vent is installed over it. These vents are designed to allow prefabricated ridge caps to fit snugly over them.
Ridge vents are designed to prevent water from getting into your home through the vent. They use an upside-down V or other “baffled” design that takes advantage of the fact that water doesn’t flow uphill. Additionally, many vents are specially designed to keep out wind-borne dirt, leaves, and debris. And they may also feature mesh screens that block the path of insects and rodents.
If you are getting new roofing installed on your home soon, or if your ridges are beginning to show a bit of wear and tear, it’s time to pay some attention to getting quality ridge caps and vents installed.
In Central Florida, contact Sheegog Contracting today to discuss your roofing needs and to schedule a roof inspection and/or roofing repair or installation job. We are here to help!
