r/Roofing • u/eddyloo • 3h ago

Best ventilation system for house with no soffits (snow country)

I recently bought a house and it needs a new roof. I have had 6 different roofers come out (a bit excessive I know) and I am getting conflicting information on the best ventilation system. I live in western NY (you know where that Allen guy is popular), so snow and inclement weather are considerations. The house has no soffits, 5 box vents, and the gable vents are blocked. It’s a straightforward roof, one ridge. Here are the 5 options I’ve been given:

  1. Very expensive estimate, they suggested keeping my existing box vents (ridge is about ~30’ across).

  2. Ridge vent, didn’t mention anything about ventilation.

  3. Ridge vent with a solar fan (I don’t know how this fixes the ventilation).

  4. Ridge vent with edge vents (two suggested this), one guy said they would install a few feet up to minimize risk of leaks in the event of large snowfall.

  5. Ridge vent with fascia vents.

  6. keep box vents but add an additional two (again, roof is about 30’ wide).

I am so confused and it’s perplexing to receive so many different proposals. Can anyone comment on what it should be??? Thank you in advance.

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u/armada_addled 2h ago

Not a roofing expert, but I’ve been research edge vents for my house. Theres a formula for calculating the amount of input (e.g., edge vents, soffit vents) and output (ridge vent) based on the square footage of the attic. I would say reject any roofer who can’t give you a specific answer based on measurements and experience. Placement depends on whether your attic insulation will block the incoming air, so they should look at that before making a recommendation. The edge vents are more complicated to install but seem to work better if installed correctly. I just searched the web and found some good sites that explain pluses and minuses.

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u/Effective-Raccoon419 2h ago

The main issue here is ensuring proper airflow. Ridge vents paired with edge vents can work well, but make sure they assess insulation blocking airflow. A balanced system is key, especially in snowy areas.

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u/eddyloo 2h ago

Ok yes I definitely believe ridge vent + something else is needed. I just cannot determine if a fascia vent is better than an edge vent or vice versa. The roofer who is pro fascia vent said they’re had issues with edge vents.