Ventilation Planning Guide

Planning reference only — no interactive calculator is available on this page.

A ventilation assessment starts with the building configuration, applicable requirements and the installed vents. This guide lists information to gather for that review.

Planning Information:

Information to gather for a professional assessment:

  • Total attic or roof deck area
  • Roof slope or pitch
  • Current intake and exhaust vent types
  • Climate zone or building location
  • Type of insulation or vapor barrier used

This page does not calculate ventilation requirements. Net free ventilating area (square inches) and airflow (CFM) are different quantities; this guide provides no conversion or recommended intake/exhaust values.

When This Guide May Help:

  • Planning a new roofing system or retrofit
  • Addressing indoor humidity or attic heat issues
  • Ensuring compliance with local building codes
  • Evaluating existing ventilation systems for performance gaps

Want a professional review of your roof’s ventilation system? Schedule a RAC assessment and keep your roof breathing right.

Questions about your roof or building envelope?

RAC provides independent investigation and documentation to help owners understand what happened and what remains uncertain. Contact RAC before planned repair, replacement or demolition changes the available evidence.

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