Early Canadian settlers built simple straight roofs on their homes with gables at each end. It would take many decades before they could afford eavestroughs and down pipes, let alone fascias and soffits to seal their roofs off from the outside air.
And as for HVAC, they had wood burner stoves to gather around on winter evenings, and gable end vents to air the attic in summer. These were pretty simple stuff, but if you positioned the house in the right direction you could be spared the worst of the summer heat.
Nowadays Canadian homeowners prefer the luxury of modern HVAC systems. However, these can be expensive to install and operate. That said, they are a seamless solution although we have to admit hardly carbon neutral.
So Are Gable End Vents Just There for Decoration Now?
Well they certainly do add a delightfully no-colonial touch to a period, or modern house. And if they are genuine – as opposed to mock – gable end vents let air through the attic pretty much as soffits and roof vents do.
However, there are problems attached to letting nature do its thing. That’s because we have sophisticated HVAC in the living space below and this may disturb the natural balance. When that happens, surplus humidity accumulates in the roof space.
In winter we could have stagnant air accumulating and then condensing instead. We could add a smart touch with automatic fans but that would increase our energy bill. Therefore we need an even smarter alternative.
We Need Soffit Vents and Gable End Vents Working Together
Soffit vents under roof overhangs admit fresh air into the roof space using nature’s own ‘smart fan’. The breeze flowing between the gable end vents draws this air through, displacing the humid or stale air that exits to the outside.
This provides a natural, organic solution to attic ventilation. However, what’s especially neat is the system should be almost energy free. You may look at the gable vents of an ‘oldie’ with more respect now you understand the technology behind the architectural beauty. Or simplicity in the case of our image above
Would You Like a Quote for a Natural Attic Ventilation System?
Valiant Exteriors Ltd. in Calgary telephone (403)829-1661 has a great reputation for repairing / replacing all the finishes on the outside of family homes. Gable end vents are regularly part of our roof and siding projects and add the final touch.
We don’t charge to quote for projects, and we routinely undercut our competition. We have special safety measures in place to ensure Covid-19 safety. You could send an email inquiry right now or when convenient.
More Information
Attic Rain and How to Prevent It