Home > Blog > Ridge Vent vs. Box Vent: Which Is Better?

Ridge Vent vs. Box Vent: Which Is Better?

There are many different types of vents that can be installed on a roof to improve the system’s overall airflow. To understand the most effective ventilation methods for your home, you must first understand what ventilation is and why it matters.

Much goes into developing a balance between intake and exhaust, and the type of ventilation your system uses has an effect on the air in your house.

Roof Ventilation

In most buildings, the doors and windows are frequently in use. Along with other ventilation systems, this helps to recycle the air inside. In most houses, however, the attic does not get much traffic.

The air trapped between the roof and the living space becomes stale and stagnant—unless something is set up to move it. Most homes use a hybrid approach employing aspects of mechanical and natural ventilation systems to cycle fresh air in all weather conditions.

Mechanical Ventilation

Mechanical ventilation systems use a fan to intentionally create airflow between outdoors and inside the building. Any equipment that heats or cools an area likely uses mechanical ventilation to do so. Components of a mechanical ventilation system typically include supply fans, which bring the air in, and exhaust fans, which draw the air out to equalize the flow.

Natural Ventilation

Natural ventilation systems rely on passive influences to guide the flow of outdoor air into a building. Temperature changes, wind pressure, and other physical forces create ventilation through intentionally-placed openings, such as windows and doors. Natural ventilation systems may have adjustable openings or be fixed permanently, but there are no mechanical components to help airflow.

Mixed-Mode Ventilation

As you might expect, mixed-mode ventilation systems use aspects of mechanical and natural ventilation. The different processes may be used at the same time, at different times throughout the day, or even during completely different seasons.

Mechanical ventilation systems can operate similarly through a variety of environmental conditions, but may cost more and be more complex. Natural systems may be more convenient, but they are not ideal in certain weather.

Many roofing systems harness a combination of the two to save homeowners money while still helping them be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Roofing Intake Vents

Roof intake vents should be installed evenly around the house to keep low and high-pressure areas balanced. Typically, intake vents are placed on the lower areas of the roof. Soffit vents, for example, are sometimes placed under a roof’s eaves where they will not get wet or clogged but can continue routing fresh air into the attic or other planned area.

Roofing Exhaust Vents

Equally as important as intake vents, exhaust vents allow heat to exit. Odors, hot air, and moisture that gets trapped in your attic can lead to internal damage and leaks. Proper exhaust ventilation prevents this issue by providing an unobstructed exit for unwanted air.

Exhaust vents work in combination with intake vents to create a balanced airflow of push and pull. This frequent cycle of fresh air through your house not only keeps the air clean, but it also protects the interior of your house from stagnation issues. The most common types of roof exhaust systems are ridge vents and box vents.

Ridge Vents vs. Box Vents

Box vents—also known as static roof vents—are non-mechanical passages that work with soffit ventilation. They harness natural phenomena, such as wind and convection, to remove the hot air and moisture from your attic.

The installation process for box vents is invasive and requires holes in your roof’s decking or gables/siding. The holes from a box vent installation can leave your home more vulnerable to airflow issues. These holes are also known for potentially leading to leaks, repairs, and uninvited pests.

Ridge vents are very similar to box vents, using non-mechanical processes in conjunction with soffit ventilation. The main difference between ridge vents and box vents is the installation process. Installing ridge vents requires much less destructive tactics. This often comes at a lower price and provides a more energy-efficient installation option. Along with maximizing airflow, minimizing the risk of unnecessary costs is also an important part of choosing a ventilation system.

Why Is Ventilation Important?

Your house is a delicate system with many processes working concurrently. Your electrical system powers appliances—keeping the fridge cold and the lights on. Your plumbing system keeps the water going—preventing clogged toilets and properly disposing of waste.

Similarly, your ventilation system keeps the air moving—preventing stagnation and keeping the environment fresh.

Without proper airflow, the moisture in the air could cause significant issues in your home’s other systems and might create a foul smell. Hot air warmed by the sun would continue to get hotter, causing the interior temperature to rise well above a comfortable number. A good ventilation system serves a variety of obvious and latent functions.

Roofing Ventilation Options

Depending on your geographical location and the desired breathability of your home, you may choose a different vent system than your neighbor. Whatever you choose, make sure you do your research before getting any work done. Take a look at some of the products we offer to make a more informed decision for your home.

Call Wilson Brothers Roofing for Your Bakersfield Roofing Needs

Here at Wilson Brothers Roofing, we offer maintenance and repairs for ventilation additions, roof vents, shingle blow-offs, etc.

Any service your roof needs, you can count on Wilson Brothers Roofing to handle it efficiently and affordably. Contact us today for a consultation at 661-589-4297.