The Basics of Vented Ridge Caps: A Guide for Homeowners and Roofing Contractors
Are you a homeowner who is looking for the best way to top off your new roof? Or are you a roofing contractor in the Hattiesburg area searching for the best options for your customers? If so, you’ll want to read this guide on vented ridge caps. Vented ridge cap shingles are an excellent choice when it comes to completing a roof. They bring together both form and function as they enhance the appearance of the rooftop while also providing important benefits that protect and extend the life of a roof.
What Are Ridge Caps?
Ridge caps (also known as hip caps) are shingles used at the peak, or ridgeline, of a roof. As their name implies, they “cap” the ridge end and help with waterproofing. Traditional ridge caps are simply individual shingles cut into shapes that fit around that ridgeline–the same shape and profile as regular asphalt shingle products but much narrower in width.
Advantages Of Vented Ridge Cap Shingles
Vented ridge caps offer advantages over traditional ridge cap shingles because they allow air to circulate under the roof deck, extending its life by minimizing trapped moisture build up behind them. In addition, vented ridge caps can be made from either regular asphalt or designer style products, allowing homeowners more choices when designing their home’s look. Finally, some manufacturers offer special warranties with vented designs that can add extra peace of mind during installation.
How To Install Vented Ridge Caps
Installing vented ridge caps isn’t complicated if basic instructions are followed properly; however there is no “one size fits all” approach when it comes to installing this type of product. That’s why Reliable Roofing & Construction in Hattiesburg MS recommends always consulting installation guidelines provided by each manufacturer before beginning any project. Here we outline general steps that can be used when installing many types of these products:
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Clean the ridgeline before starting installation to make sure excess dirt or debris will not interfere with adhesion; then use galvanized nails or another appropriate fastener every 12 inches near each end and along its length but being careful not to overdrive them so as not to damage the product being installed or any existing material underneath it like deck sheathing or fireblocking materials should those be present on site —Reliable Roofing & Construction will verify these details in advance on each job so as not to damage anything laying beneath which could lead to other problems down the line!
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Once ready, start by positioning two pre-cut eaves starter strips on each side at an angle before placing one full length vent strip in between them down the center; depending upon manufacturer requirements additional ventilation may need added such as applying ventilated felt strips overlapping onto each starter strip prior to laying out your first course capped vents across sections—this step is critical since ventilation channels need unobstructed airflow from eave-to-eave along entire ridgeline for proper functioning!
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Move forward by placing alternate courses up towards peak using standard methods including cutting pieces if necessary where needed—as long as nails stay within 12″ intervals from sides/ends and carefully placed without overdriving into deck sheath materials below there should be no issues here either!
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Finish with hip cap installation which generally requires cutting off several pieces needed fill in gaps left otherwise due unevenness along peak—or gable ends depending upon roof design—and crimping piece overhangs towards edge nearest eave-line making sure it lays flat once complete Installation! It is important that all steps are properly followed according to manufacturer directions throughout process; doing so will help ensure longevity while protecting against premature rotting-type damages usually caused when materials become waterlogged during heavy rainfalls or other extreme weather elements due improper laydown practices/techniques employed initially…good luck finishing up strong!!
By following these simple steps homeowners and contractors alike can have a beautiful finished project courtesy of Reliable Roofing & Construction in Hattiesburg MS using quality vented ridge cap shingling products from trusted manufacturers worldwide! With superior protection against harsh weather elements and better ventilation thanks to enhanced design features these unique products provide benefits unmatched elsewhere making them an exceptional choice for any residential retrofit application requiring upgrade from standard non-vented counterparts currently installed most places still today!
How to find us:
- Reliable Roofing & Construction LLC
- 5267 Old Highway 11, Suite F, Hattiesburg, MS 39402
- 601-550-6286