Bringing proper ventilation onto a flat roof can be a difficult task. Unlike angled roofs, flat roofs have a unique structure that only allows some types of vents. Gases and toxic fumes need to exit your home, and proper airflow is the only way to ensure this happens. Although some homes have a shed on the roof, there still needs to be a vent for fresher air conditions.
Mushroom vents are the best choice for flat roofs. Since it is shaped like a capped post, the vent allows air to escape but prevents water from seeping through.
But First, Why Do You Need Proper Roof Ventilation?
Before you try setting up your mushroom vents, it helps to know why you need them. Making sure that you have proper airways on the rooftop protects you from several safety hazards. As the ventilation path allows temperature regulation, it helps bring comfort during the summer and winter months.
The mushroom vent can also prevent moisture from clogging up the attic. In the winter months, the vent can also help stop condensation from forming. That way, any items stored in this area do not get damaged. The correct ventilation also prevents heat from accumulating, which helps lessen energy consumption regarding the thermostat.
The materials used in the roof listed here by roofing company CheckaRoof will also be more preserved with a proper vent. Condensation is closely associated with roof damage, so preventing it allows the structure to last longer.
How Do I Install a Mushroom Vent?
Now that you know why a mushroom vent is beneficial for your household, you might be wondering how to set it up properly. After all, installing it the wrong way will cause more problems for the house. You might expose yourself and your housemates to toxic substances if the mushroom vent is not set up properly.
Make sure to choose a mushroom vent that fits the opening in your roof. Otherwise, you might end up with unnecessary costs. If you think you have found the right mushroom vent for your household, then feel free to proceed to the setup.
The steps are as follows:
Step 1: Finding the Centre Point from the Attic and Roof
The first step in running your mushroom vent is finding the right spot. You must first locate the place in the attic that is best for drilling. The hole will be the place where the vent will pass through. This spot will go through the roof. When conducting the operation, make sure to take caution.
Wear protective equipment like goggles. Gloves can also prevent you from getting wounded by the drill or debris. In addition, keep out any young children or pets to protect them from any harm. Once these precautions are in place, you can start the drilling process.
Use a driller that you are comfortable using. Make sure it does not cause malfunction and is connected to a safe and secure outlet. As you finish drilling through the attic, leave the screw in place. That way, you can still see the screw once you go up to the roof. Once you are up on the roof, you can cut the hole out. Make sure that you do not break the rafters. This action can weaken the vent and make it useless.
Step 2: Remove Any Tiles from the Area
Once you have found a place where the vent can pass through easily, remove any obstructions from the area. These days, many houses have tiles in place. While they may look good, the vent must not be covered up by tiles to prevent any damage.
If you want to minimise the damage to the area, try to make a seamless and clean cut through the tiles. That way, you can salvage some parts of the tiles for future use. You can use a measuring tool like a ruler or measuring tape to help you mark the area.
We have written about the best tile saws recently in this article.
Step 3: Cut Through the Hole
In this step, it is finally time to cut the hole for the vent. Make sure that the hole gives enough room for expansion. Since the vent will deal with changes in temperature, it is necessary that it has enough space.
To save on time and effort, try to cut beginning at the centre of the spot. From the middle of the hole, go to the edge of the area and then around the vent. This motion allows for a more convenient cutting process. It also prevents any damage to the surrounding area.
Step 4: Place the Vent with the Proper Flashing
Now that you have the hole in position, it is time to put the vent through the area. In installing the vent, you also have to surround it with the proper flashing. Although some vents do not need flashing to be installed, many variants need them to function properly. Consult the manufacturing guide or instruction manual to be sure.
In placing the flashing, you need a hammer and some nails to put it firmly in position. The nails will pin it down along with the roofing tar. The combination prevents any spaces from manifesting in the vent, effectively blocking out moisture and other hazards.
Step 5: Replace the Roofing Tiles
If the vent is already in position, you can proceed to make the area look as clean as possible. Start by cleaning and dust or debris from the area. Then, you can go back to the tiles you salvaged from the previous steps. You can put them back in position, taking care not to damage the surrounding area.
If your roof does not have any tiles, then you can simply put some gravel onto the area. Make sure to preserve access points to the roof.
Regardless of your reason for placing a mushroom vent, there is no doubt that it has many benefits. Houses need proper ventilation to prevent their residents from experiencing discomfort and other hazards. Ensure that your installation complies with the safety standards in your area.
At the end of the day, it is your safety that matters the most.
