Ridge Vent Retrofit and Attic Ventilation Upgrade
Project Overview
Ventilation retrofit on a 1980s split-level in Paramus. Attic was reaching 140F in summer and the homeowner noticed ice dam formation the previous winter. Existing static box vents were inadequate.
Analysis
Inspection confirmed an unbalanced ventilation system: soffit intake was present but obstructed by blown insulation baffles gone missing, and exhaust relied on three undersized box vents. Shingles near the ridge showed early heat blistering.
Process
One-day job. Cut ridge slot in the morning, installed vent and ridge cap in the afternoon, patched old vent holes, and completed soffit baffle work from inside the attic.
Outcome
Attic temperatures dropped 25F on comparable summer days. Ice damming did not recur the following winter. Energy bills decreased noticeably in peak months.
Project Details
Materials Used
Cobra ridge vent rolls, new plastic soffit intake baffles, GAF ridge cap shingles, galvanized roofing nails, replacement underlayment strip at ridge.
Methods & Techniques
Cut a continuous 2 inch slot along the main ridge. Installed Cobra ridge vent over the slot. Patched the three old box vent openings with decking and matching shingles. In the attic, reinstalled proper intake baffles to clear soffit airflow.
Key Highlights
Continuous Cobra ridge vent, balanced intake and exhaust, blistering shingles prevented from spreading, ice dam prevention.