Replies

1. 
   DanH | Jan 13, 2014 08:15am | #1

   It is a reasonable possibility with fairly strong wind-driven rain.  Some ridge vents are better than others at preventing it, and installation technique is a factor as well.

1. 
   jimmiem | Jan 13, 2014 11:04am | #2

   Roof Ridge Vent Leak in Wind Driven Rain

   Thank You.  I called a local well reputed roofer this morning and his response was right in line with yours.  He said if it happened again anytime soon he would come and take a look.  I told him that the asphalt shingles are just about ready for replacement and he said to wait until March unless the leaking happens again before then.  Also, as you did, he said the older ridge vents aren't as good as the newer products.     

1. 
   calvin | Jan 13, 2014 02:27pm | #3

   Jim

   I've got some 25 yo ridge vent on the roof here.  They don't and never have allowed water in.  Old don't mean bad.  I'll agree whole heartedly that there's both good and bad.  New bad is bad.

   Lower slope don't help and coastal conditions neither.  We've had some good blows here, but live in a hill at the back (2 story one side-back only 1).  The prevailing winds do not hit the house flat-they come in on an angle to the hip roof.  Big blows (tornado's not miles away) didn't see moisture in the attic.  The grounds slope and tree lines move the air currents up and over the house (which could help alot).

   So, no leaks in yours for 20 yrs, you might have had a big event and bad luck.

   Here's hoping it don't happen again.

1. 
   DanH | Jan 13, 2014 06:48pm | #4

   About once every 3 years we get a blow that comes from the south and blows right up the slope of the roof.  Water blows in the bathroom vent and a few drops come through the ridge vent.  The cellulose in the attic pretty well disperses whatever comes through, though.

1. 
   calvin | Jan 13, 2014 07:11pm | #5

   Exactly

   There are several reasons for water intrusion-not all can be blamed on "old" product.  The trick is to get the best product you can and eliminate all other things that will compromise your install.

   Afterall, you are putting a pretty good hole in the roof, keeping the rain out does take a bit of thought.

   Drips we can handle no problem-a gallon or two and you start to reach a point of little return.

2. 
   carloa007 | Jan 17, 2014 09:43am | #6

   Can't recall how many times I've replaced narrow flimsy metal ridge vent purchased at box stores with the stiffer wider stuff I get from my local yard.

3. 
   calvin | Jan 17, 2014 03:52pm | #7

   carloa

   Further proof why you should always Support Your Local Yard!