All it takes is one good rainfall to create a potentially disastrous problem: Ridge vent leaking. The last thing anyone wants to see (or smell) is mold or mildew in a metal building. But if the ridge vents weren’t properly installed, or if they were poorly made, get ready for water damage and a potentially expensive repair bill. Here’s what you need to know about ridge vent leaking — and how to spot (and prevent) it.
What is a Ridge Vent?
It’s a particular style of roof vent that allows for proper ventilation and airflow through the building. Ridge vents are popular because they come in continuous and low profile styles, providing optimum ventilation without being obtrusive.
Ridge vents are great for airflow, especially in humid climates, but they must be fabricated and installed correctly. Otherwise, they risk creating an interior moisture problem at the first sign of rain or high humidity. Once that happens, they’ll have to be removed and replaced — something that can spell trouble for a business’ bottom line.
What Are the Signs and Warnings of Ridge Vent Leaking?
The most obvious sign of ridge vent leaking (and one even the most untrained eye can spot) is an actual drip coming through the ceiling. Even so, that’s not the only tip-off. Any hint of mold or mildew smell, especially at the height of the summer heat, is a sure sign there’s water getting into the building. That may be accompanied by wet spots or discoloration on walls or the ceiling. If a leak has gone that far, be sure to check for plumbing and larger building envelope leaks.
If possible, take a trip up to the roof to look for signs of rust or corrosion around the ridge vent. It may even be possible to see water collecting or leaking in around the vent seams. Even if there isn’t a mold or mildew smell, the vents and roof should be checked once or twice a year as part of your general building maintenance. So, be sure to look for signs of leakage then, too.
Get a handle on leaks as early as possible — and better yet, make sure you’re working with a company that can ensure your ridge vents are manufactured and installed correctly from the start. If you have questions about ridge vent leaking, or if you’re looking to replace your old vents, feel free to contact us. Our ventilation experts are here to help, and we’ve been an industry leader in ventilation systems for more than a half century.
