Roof Vents

Cutting off the eaves to carry the air and thermal barriers from the wall sheathing to the roof plane is an effective performance upgrade for some old homes.

Ventilation is considered standard practice, but not all building scientists think vents do much or agree on the best ventilation products.

Vulcan Vents provide an extra layer of protection from embers and flames.

Builders Travis Brungardt and Joe Cook walk through the decisions behind building a ventilated roof deck and the problems it solves for their assembly.

Wood-fiber panels, blown cellulose, and a taped air barrier help solve the comfort and ice-dam problems common with Cape-style houses.

A system of galvalume panels and furring strips offers a radiant-barrier roof with a ventilated roof deck that's suited to all climates.

For vaulted ceilings, this vented and vapor-open approach is durable and energy-smart, and a good option for houses in mixed and cold climates.

Reduce the amount of moisture that gets into insulation baffles by installing a variable-permeance membrane.

Learn how to choose the right materials and get the construction details right to install a durable, weathertight roof on any home.

The Fine Homebuilding editors tackle questions about waterproofing an outdoor floor, designing comfortable spaces, and installing attractive interior trim that matches a simple ranch house.