If you suspect your attic has ventilation problems, the first step is to call a local roof repair pro for an inspection. Professional roofers will inspect the attic and roof for damage and discuss options for improving ventilation and repairing any existing damage.
Attic fan installation costs $300 to $900 and provides active ventilation from a motorized fan. Adding passive attic ventilation like gable vents costs $150 to $700. Additional intake vents may be required when adding an attic fan.
When calculating how much attic ventilation you need, your roofer will either use the 1/150 or 1/300 rule. The one they use determines how much Net Free Ventilation Area (open area for air to pass through) you'll need for every 150 or 300 square feet of attic space.
If yours stops working, it's essential to fix it as soon as possible—and in most cases, you'll need to hire a pro. Assuming that your attic fan runs on electricity (as many do), it's best to call a licensed electrician for repairs.
Maintaining adequate attic ventilation is essential for the overall health of you and your home. Without proper ventilation, you risk mold mildew growth, general deterioration of your roofing system, and even increased respiratory problems due to this moisture accumulation.
If you suspect your attic has ventilation problems, the first step is to call a local roof repair pro for an inspection. Professional roofers will inspect the attic and roof for damage and discuss options for improving ventilation and repairing any existing damage.
The cost to install an attic fan is $625 on average. Installing a small, passive attic fan may cost you as little as $369, but a larger solar or dual-powered attic fan can surpass $914. Contrary to what their name might suggest, attic fans help to cool your whole house—not just the attic space.
You can expect your attic fan to last between 10 - 15 years before needing its motor replaced.
A residential roofing contractor has experience with attic maintenance procedures. They can adequately install an attic fan to ensure you don't have to bear any unnecessary expenses later. They can also help you choose the right attic fan for your home and individual needs.
A smoke test is a simple way to determine if your attic ventilation is working properly. The test involves a few steps to help locate air leaks and determine the amount of existing ventilation. When your roof and soffit vents work in unison, hot air is removed, fresh air comes in, and airflow is created.
One cause of roof dams is attics with insufficient ventilation. If your attic cannot breathe, trapped heat can warm your roof from the underside, causing the snow to melt and refreeze when temperatures drop.
It is absolutely possible the ventilation system on your roof is excessive. Maybe your home is older and prior ventilation was installed by a homeowner, or incorrect vent sizes were used in an older roof layout. Too much ventilation can negatively influence the attic's and home's insulation as well.
Most attic fans have a lifespan of 10–15 years. If yours is nearing or past this age, it might be time to consider attic fan replacement.
For example, ducts in walls or ceilings cost $1,000 to $4,000 to replace, ducts in basements cost $1,800 to $3,100, ducts in attics cost $2,200 to $5,600, and ducts in crawlspaces cost $3,000 to $7,300 to replace. ¹ Number of Ducts: The more ducts to be replaced, the more materials needed and the more labor involved.
Soffit vents can become blocked due to various reasons: Accumulation of leaves, dirt, or debris can hinder proper airflow through the vents. Improper installation of insulation, baffles, or attic floor coverings can obstruct ventilation.
Yes, you should get a quote or an estimate from an electrician. Most electricians offer free estimates or quotes.
Why are attic fans not used anymore? Due to inefficiencies in relying on existing attic vents for air intake, attic fans have lost popularity. These vents often aren't designed for this purpose, resulting in inadequate replacement air supply.
Here are some of the warning signs you should be aware of: The fan is unable to turn on or off: A lack of proper response from your attic fan is always going to be a sign of a problem. If your attic fan doesn't turn on, there may be an issue with the thermostat, wiring, or electrical circuit controlling the fan.
An electrician or handyman can repair wiring issues. Hiring a handyman costs $50 to $80 per hour. Replacing or installing a new fan may require a carpenter to add or adjust the framework. An HVAC technician can troubleshoot and repair a whole-house or attic fan.
An attic fan that won't turn on is usually an electrical problem, but it can also be an issue with the fan motor or the thermostat. First, check the circuit breaker that controls the attic fan.
Roofers do install attic fans. Actually, it's a good idea to hire a roofer to do it because the installation will require cutting a hole in the roof itself.
If your attic fan no longer works, heat in the summer and moisture in winter can build up and cause damage to your house and any stored items. To repair an attic fan near you, you can pay between $200 and $430, with an average price of about $300.
If you have condensation in the attic, there is likely a leak or some other issue. Whatever the problem, it is better to take the help of an experienced roofing professional.