Ridge vents for metal buildings rank among the most effective ways to create comfortable — and, more importantly, healthy — indoor spaces. Even better? Their low-maintenance nature, combined with the fact that they offer ventilation benefits year-round, make them easy on the wallet, as well. But, what exactly is the ridge ventilator, and how do you know which one best suits your needs? We're glad you asked. Read on for a helpful highlight of these vents' ins and outs.
You'll find the ridge ventilator atop metal buildings, at the highest point (or "ridge") of the roof. These vents put physics to work, drawing on a basic concept in thermodynamics — that warm air rises. Openings within the ridge ventilators encourage hot, stale air — and air contaminated by manufacturing and production operations — up and out of the building. At the same time, they work in tandem with other elements of the ventilation system to help usher fresher, healthier air in. In other words, ridge vents keep air moving.
At Metallic Products, we offer two ridge ventilator options: Continuous and low profile. While both carry out the same basic work - and can be installed as a single unit or continuous run - certain distinctions do provide advantages, depending on the situation.
Low profile ridge vents, for instance, are just that — low profile. They are blend easily with their surroundings and are ideal for metal buildings where ventilation is important, but where aesthetics also sit front and center. While multiple throat sizes are available for the low profile vent, roof pitch is what determines the ideal size.
Continuous ridge vents, with their wide range of throat sizes, are all about options. These ventilators are scalable, working well for large manufacturing or production operations that generate fumes, heat and the like. The option to include a damper in the vent’s design also allows for added control over airflow.
As with any construction or design consideration, determining your ideal ridge vent hinges on your company’s unique space, the purpose it serves — and the team’s personal preferences, too. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
Building Size: It likely goes without saying that larger structures have larger ventilation needs. Square footage plays an important role in determining exactly how many ventilators it will take to get the job done. And, while such math might seem a bit complicated, rest assured you aren’t in this alone. Your metal building accessory manufacturer or distributor should be able to help you determine exactly what you’ll need.
Building Use: Adequate ventilation is important for any and all spaces, but such is especially true for those that play home to industrial, manufacturing or production purposes. (After all, if heat and fumes build up inside a space but have nowhere to go, they can create uncomfortable conditions and lead to substantial health hazards. Talk with your metal building accessory manufacturer about what goes on inside your space. From there, they can help you determine the option that is best for your building, people — and bottom line, too.
Building Look and Feel: Although less important than your ventilator’s ability to remove stale air and contaminants from your space, looks do matter. If your goal is to incorporate metal building accessories that get the job done but are otherwise virtually invisible, a low profile ridge vent is likely your best bet. If you want the same thing but your building requires a continuous ridge vent, your manufacturer should be able to help with that, too. Both continuous and low profile ridge vents are available in a range of colors and finishes, helping contribute to your building’s overall aesthetic.
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