Ridge Ventilation
Ridge Ventilation | Roofing Done Right | Roofing | Washburn
Washburn’s mix of hot, humid summers and brisk, wet winters puts every roof to the test. HEP’s ridge ventilation roofing system is engineered to let trapped heat and moisture escape, balancing attic temperatures and protecting shingles from premature aging. With improved airflow, you’ll notice lower cooling bills in July and fewer ice-dams in January—proof that smart ventilation pays for itself season after season.
From the first shingle to the final nail, our factory-trained crew delivers roofing done right. We use premium underlayment, corrosion-resistant fasteners, and ridge vents that are custom-sized to your roof’s exact pitch, ensuring a watertight seal and a clean, finished look. Every install is backed by robust workmanship and manufacturer warranties, so you can sleep easy when the next storm rolls through Grainger County.
Ready to upgrade? Schedule a free, no-pressure inspection, and we’ll show you how a properly vented roof can add years to your home’s lifespan while boosting curb appeal. Call, click, or stop by our Washburn office today and discover why neighbors all over East Tennessee say, “Keep calm and call HEP!”
FAQs
What is ridge ventilation and how does it work?
Ridge ventilation is a continuous vent installed along the peak (ridge) of your roof. Warm, moist air inside the attic naturally rises; the ridge vent lets that air escape while soffit or eave vents draw in cooler outside air. This creates a constant, passive airflow that keeps the attic temperature and humidity in check without relying on fans or power.
Why is ridge ventilation especially important for homes in Washburn?
Washburn experiences humid summers and cold, snowy winters. A properly vented roof prevents heat buildup in summer—lowering cooling costs—and minimizes condensation in winter, which helps stop mold growth and wood rot. Good airflow also keeps roof decks colder, reducing the risk of ice dams that can cause leaks when snow melts and refreezes at the eaves.
Will installing a ridge vent mean I have to replace my entire roof?
Not necessarily. If your existing shingles and decking are still in good shape, we can retrofit a ridge vent by cutting a narrow slot at the ridge and installing the vent system under new ridge cap shingles. However, if your roof is nearing the end of its service life, combining ridge-vent installation with a full reroof often saves labor costs and ensures the vent integrates perfectly with new underlayment and shingles.
How does Roofing Done Right install ridge vents and what materials do you use?
Our crew follows manufacturer specifications and local building codes. We cut a ⅝- to 1-inch slot on each side of the ridge board, leaving the last 6 inches at each end untouched for structural stability. We then fasten a high-quality, external-baffle vent (for better wind and rain resistance) using corrosion-resistant roofing nails. Finally, we cover the vent with matching ridge cap shingles, sealed with a cold-weather adhesive suitable for Washburn’s temperature swings.
How much does ridge ventilation cost and will it lower my energy bills?
Costs vary with roof length and pitch, but most Washburn homes fall between $8 and $15 per linear foot installed. A typical 40-foot ridge would run $320–$600 when done as part of a reroof. Because ridge ventilation keeps attic temperatures closer to the outdoor ambient level, homeowners often see 5–15 % savings on summer cooling bills and avoid costly repairs associated with moisture damage or ice dams.
How long will a ridge vent last and what maintenance is required?
A quality ridge vent lasts as long as your asphalt shingle roof—20 to 30 years—when installed correctly. It has no moving parts, so maintenance is minimal: once a year, inspect from the ground (or have us inspect) for cracked ridge shingles, missing nails, or debris like pine needles that could block airflow. After severe storms, a quick visual check ensures the vent’s external baffle is still intact.