How To Install A Vent In Attic

Things needed tape measure gable vent assembly two by four lumber power drill with screw tip 3 inch wood screws plumb bob long 1 2 inch drill bit extension ladder straightedge reciprocating saw with bi metal blade tar paper utility knife construction stapler exterior caulk caulk gun cap flashing.

How to install a vent in attic.

Cut the sheathing out along that line and place your vent in your hole over the peak. When working with a roofline or turbine vent remove any shingles or felt paper between the two rafters where you ll be installing the vent. To install the vents holes will need to be cut into the soffit. Cutting the rafters could weaken the structure of the roof.

You also want a fan that s appropriate for the square footage of your attic space by checking the manufacturer s specifications. To save time use an existing roof or gable vent to install your new attic fan. This way you don t have to cut a brand new hole but simply make the hole for the vent larger so it can accommodate the fan. Space the holes 12 to 14 in.

Of vent for every 300 sq. Then cut out the circle with a reciprocating saw and mount the fan over the cutout using a drill. When cutting the holes that will allow ventilation it s critical to make certain that you don t cut into the roof rafters. With the help of an assistant raise the vent up to the soffit and center it over the cutout slot.

To install an attic fan over a gable vent in your attic trace the body of the fan onto a piece of plywood that s wide enough to mount on the studs on each side of the vent. Prior to installing the ridge vent a 1 inch wide strip of roof decking is cut out along both sides of the ridgeline to allow for air movement through the vent. The following is a list of options for installing ventilation into a residential attic space. Finish by securing it in place.

A ridge vent is a ventilation strip that is placed along the ridgeline of the home. In order to facilitate this exchange of warm and cool air the general rule of thumb suggests installing at least 1 sq. Screw holes through both flanges. Cut a hole that equals the size of your vent s throat.

Get the trade secrets from the jet fan man who has installed around 13 000 attic fans since 1983. Photo by merle henkenius.