House, design, renovation, decor.  Courtyard and garden.  With your own hands

House, design, renovation, decor. Courtyard and garden. With your own hands

» How to install a roofing aerator for roof ventilation, installation rules. Competent installation of aerators on a soft roof How to install aerators correctly

How to install a roofing aerator for roof ventilation, installation rules. Competent installation of aerators on a soft roof How to install aerators correctly

Installation of a soft roof does not tolerate trifles. Sometimes, thinking to save money on such a seemingly unnecessary detail as roof ventilation, the developer is faced with a lot of troubles. The roof begins to leak, the house smells damp, and icicles accumulate on the eaves. And, the apotheosis of everything, is the transient destruction of expensive roofing material. Such troubles occur because moisture penetrates into the cake of a soft roof, seeping into the insulation, roof structures and the bituminous coating itself. The problem can be solved by installing artificial ventilation ducts on the roof - aerators. Air will circulate through them, drawing out excess moisture and drying the inner cake of the structure.

Thus, the installation of aerators on soft roof- the process recommended by specialists, and in some cases (above attic floor, for example) - mandatory, preventing its damage and ensuring a comfortable stay in the house.

It is clear that aerators provide ventilation and drying roofing cake from moisture. But where does it come from? After all, manufacturers initially positioned a soft roof as a sealed one. Moreover, in the composition of the roofing cake there are layers of hydro and vapor barrier (vapor barrier - in the case of a heater).

But this does not save from the presence of wet vapors. They are an indispensable attribute of any living space, formed in the process of cooking, washing, taking a bath, and even, ultimately, human breathing. According to research, every day in a house where a family of 4 lives, 2-4 liters of water vapor is formed, part of which accumulates in the under-roof space.

When warm steam comes into contact with a cold surface (during sudden temperature jumps outside-inside), it condenses. As a result, the smallest droplets of water begin to soak any structures and materials that they can "reach". First of all, these are rafters, lathing, insulation.

Another way of moisture penetration is from the outside of the roof. Warm steam, accumulating in the attic, heats up the roofing from the inside. In winter, the snow on the roof begins to melt. Ice crusts are formed, which, when the situation worsens, also melt. Water penetrates into the joints of the coating, the roof begins to leak.

In addition, the coating itself suffers, which in any case has microcracks. Moisture penetrates there and, when the temperature drops, breaks the material. Cracks become visible, sometimes through. The coating becomes unusable.

On a soft roof, the consequences of excess moisture drinks manifest themselves quite quickly. You may notice:

  • The appearance of bubbles on the surface... A soft roof cake usually contains a waterproofing layer (top) and a vapor barrier layer (bottom). In fact, it is a closed sealed circuit. In summer, the roofing cake heats up to 80-100 ° C, as a result of which moisture accumulated in the circuit forms steam and tries to evaporate. This situation entails the appearance of blisters and destruction of the roof.
  • Decrease in the efficiency of the heat insulator... Wetting the heat-insulating layer even by 2% leads to an increase in its thermal conductivity (and a decrease in insulating properties) by 40%! Accordingly, such a roof ceases to fulfill its functions in terms of retaining heat, and heating costs increase.

All this leads to the destruction of the structure of the roofing material and the occurrence of leaks.

Purpose of aerators

How to prevent moisture from settling on roofing surfaces? Or dry structures already saturated with moisture?

The laws of physics will come to our aid. Moisture can be removed by evaporation, which occurs when moving (circulating) air streams. Since there is a significant difference between the internal (in the house) and external (outside) pressure indicators, it is enough to ensure the process of communication of the two media for air circulation.

If the attic is cold, then effective ventilation can be provided quite simply - through dormers, loose fit eaves, crevices in the skate. For warm attics and attics, this solution is not suitable, since in the cold season, unregulated ventilation will reduce the temperature in the room.

In such houses, the most acceptable use is roof aerators- ventilation ducts connecting the under-roof and over-roof spaces. After installing the aerator, due to the pressure difference, a forced draft is created in its pipe, which draws out wet vapors from under the roof.

Highly important point: in order for the process of drawing air through the aerator to become possible, it is necessary to provide a supply of fresh cool air in the overall system. Otherwise, the air masses will not circulate. For this, ventilation ducts are installed in the cornices, where fresh air is continuously supplied. Passing through the attic space, it heats up and rises up to the roof.

Thanks to the created draft in the aerator, it passes through its pipe and is thrown out into the street. With properly equipped ventilation, in just 1 hour the air flow passes through the roofing cake 2 times, drying and ventilating it.

Accordingly, having installed aerators for a soft roof in the right amount, you do not have to worry about the dryness of the coating and insulation. Therefore, it is more correct to start installing them at the construction stage. But, if for some reason this did not happen, you can do it later. The main thing is not to wait for the appearance of irreparable defects in the roof (swelling, destruction of the material). Fortunately for many developers, using aerators can not only prevent moisture build-up in the new roofing cake, but also drain the old roofing already saturated with moisture.

Varieties of aerators

For soft roofing, aerators are used made of shock-resistant plastics that can withstand temperature extremes, corrosion, and UV rays. Depending on the design features, purpose and method of action, there are 2 types of aerators: continuous ridge and point.

The ridge aerator is referred to as continuous ventilation systems, since it is installed along the entire length of the ridge to aerate the entire under-roof space. In appearance, the structure is a corner piece with holes protected by special barriers - from insects, dust, snow.


Point aerators are installed on separate sections (points) of the roof, usually on the slopes, less often on the ridge. Each such aerator is a ventilation pipe, protected from above by a cap of various configurations. Usually general form the design resembles a "fungus" or "box".

The point-like pitched aerator has a flat base (skirt) through which it is connected to the roof. The base of the point ridge aerator is angular, designed to mate with the roof in the area of ​​its upper horizontal rib.


Differences in the designs of the available types of aerators also suggest a significant difference in the technologies for their installation.

Installation of a ridge aerator

The ridge aerator is the easiest to install, it does not require a special calculation of the quantity, as it is usually placed along the entire length of the ridge. Installation of a ridge aerator is recommended on roofs with a slope of 12-45 °. Moreover, it is mounted only on the ridge, providing air circulation in the attic space.

Usage rates:

  • there must be vents on the overhangs to ensure the flow of air;
  • it is recommended to install the aerator along the entire length of the ridge, connecting its segments into one structure;
  • ridge tiles are mounted on top of the ridge aerator, so the appearance of the roof does not suffer from a "foreign" element.

Installation technology:

  1. In a solid base, a ventilation groove is cut with a circular saw. It can be one (at the top of the ridge) or two (on either side of the ridge). The total thickness of the ventilation gap should be 3-8 cm (depending on the recommendations of the manufacturer of a particular aerator). The slots are made so that they end 30 cm before the edge of the ridge, that is, on both sides of the ridge, the roof remains solid.
  2. Along the edges of the ridge (where the ventilation gap has not been cut), ridge tiles are laid.
  3. Mount the ridge aerator. Each of its segments is secured using elongated roofing nails or screws screwed through the factory holes. In this case, the segments are also connected to each other, like the details of the constructor.
  4. Cover the profile of the aerator with ridge tiles. Its petals are mounted with an overlap, according to the usual method, which does not differ from the technology of its laying along the ribs. The only difference is in the fastening elements. In this case, the tiles are nailed to the aerator with elongated roofing nails.
  5. The ends of the aerator, at the interface with the roof, are sealed with silicone sealant.

An example of work in the photo:


The video plot will help to understand in more detail the intricacies of the roof aeration device on a soft roof:

Installation of point aerators

In addition to the ridge aerator, several point analogs can be used. Such aerators are used:

  • on roofs with a slope of less than 12 °, as well as on flat roofs;
  • to increase the efficiency of ventilation, in addition to the roof aerator;
  • if the installation of a ridge aerator is not possible, for example, in the absence of a ridge or in the presence of abutments of the roofing material to vertical surfaces and walls.

Usage rates:

  • installation of point aerators is performed on slopes, at a distance of 0.5-0.8 m from the horizontal edge of the ridge;
  • it is imperative to ensure air flow on the overhangs;
  • one aerator provides effective ventilation of 5-100 m2 of the roof (depending on the diameter and shape of the structure), in accordance with these data, their number is calculated - from 2 pieces or more.

Installation technology:

  1. A hole is cut out in the solid crate, which coincides in size with the internal clearance of the aerator channel. To do this, place the base (skirt) of the aerator on the plywood (OSB) and draw the contours of the hole on the roof, through the passage channel. The markings are done with a pencil or a nail. Using a jigsaw, cut a hole along the line.
  2. Place the aerator skirt over the hole and fix it with roofing nails or self-tapping screws (at least 6 pieces). Some manufacturers recommend using the glue method in addition to the fasteners. In this case, the reverse side of the skirt is coated with bituminous mastic, glued to the base, and only then fixed with fasteners.
  3. The top of the skirt is glued with bituminous glue for waterproofing the abutment.
  4. The skirt is covered with shingles with shingles, trimming them at the junctions.
  5. The aerator mesh is put on the skirt from above, screwing it with self-tapping screws. Then the lid (cap) is mounted, snapped in and screwed on with self-tapping screws.
  6. The rest of the point aerators are mounted similarly (in accordance with the calculation), which in the total mass will make up a single ventilation system.

This is how it looks:


More visual information about the stages of installation of a point aerator can be obtained by watching a training video:

Thus, the installation of aerators is not difficult work, even self-taught masters can do it. However, the benefits are enormous!

Thanks to aerators, water vapor is drawn out of the roofing cake, condensation settling, the appearance of mold, mildew and mustiness are prevented. All this has a positive effect on the duration of the operation of wooden structures (rafters, lathing, sheathing), the work of thermal insulation, and the microclimate of the dwelling.

Roof aerators are necessary to remove moisture and water vapor that accumulate in the under-roof space. Until recently, an almost annual, seasonal repair of soft roofs was necessary. Mechanical damage to the roofing carpet occurs for various reasons. Installing rooftop devices such as poles and antennas, cleaning the roof from ice and snow are some of them. Finding a crack in a soft roof is not an easy task. The damaged area must be opened and cut out. Also organize the drying of the base gas burners... Then, a patch is put on the area prepared in this way. The installation of aerators minimizes the listed works on the restoration of the roof carpet.

Purpose of the aerator

Aerators are installed on soft ventilated roofs. These devices are also known as deflectors or wind vans. They are used on flat and pitched roofs.

The main purpose of the devices is to remove moisture from the interroof space during the operation of the roof. When repairing breathable flat roofs, aerators are used to sanitize (dry) old layers.

They are among the most effective ventilation systems, with the help of which moisture and condensate are removed from the under-roof space. The material for the manufacture of these devices must be resistant to corrosion and resistant to ultraviolet radiation. It can be acid-resistant stainless steel or weather-resistant and impact-resistant polypropylene.

Why is it so necessary to dry the roofing?

Soft roofing is widely used in residential construction during construction multi-storey buildings and cottages. For the construction of administrative, public, industrial buildings one or another type of soft roof is almost always used. This coating has many advantages, but not without its disadvantages.

One of these disadvantages is the accumulation of condensation and moisture in the insulation and screed. As a result, bubbles form on the roof surface, worsening thermal insulation characteristics... This leads to increased heat loss throughout the building and the growth of mold and mildew.

Further, the destruction of the waterproofing carpet and screed occurs. When moisture enters the under-roof space, the pores of the sand-cement screed are filled with water. At negative temperatures it freezes and increases in volume, which leads to the gradual destruction of the roofing material and the appearance of ruptures in the insulation.

To avoid these negative consequences and eliminate one of the disadvantages of a soft roof, the aeration method is used - drying of the layers of the roofing during the operation of the building.

Where does moisture come from?

Moistening of the layers of the soft roof occurs in two directions. First of all, it is atmospheric precipitation: rain, snow, fog. Water seeps through even the smallest cracks in the coating and condenses in the under-roof space. The result is water leakage into the premises, destruction of the roofing carpet.

Secondly, excess moisture appears in the form of vapors penetrating through the floor slabs from inside the premises. It would seem that processes imperceptible to the eye lead to a rather rapid occurrence of defects in the roofing layers and their destruction.

The principle of operation and function of the aerator

The principle of operation of the aerator is based on the existing constant temperature and pressure difference in the under-roof area and at the outlet, closer to the external environment. Humid air from areas with high pressure and temperature rises to the area with lower values.

Thus, air draft arises in the aerator pipe, which removes excess moisture. The principle of operation of the deflector determines its main functions:

  • elimination of condensate that collects in the lower layer of waterproofing, which contributes to the preservation of the material;
  • discharge of steam rising from the inside of the building to the external environment, which allows condensate not to accumulate under the roof;
  • preventing the insulating layer from getting wet, which helps to reduce heat loss;
  • prevention negative impact moisture on wooden structures rafters and, thanks to this, an increase in their service life;
  • protection against the formation of bubbles and deformations in the roof carpet.

Thus, aerators on the roof allow the covering to be used for a long time without reconstruction.

Types of devices

The design of the aerator on the roof is simple: a pipe with a base for fastening and a cap (or umbrella) on top, which can have different shapes. The cap is needed to protect against atmospheric moisture penetration into the pipe, birds and insects. By design features the following types of deflectors are distinguished:

  1. Point devices. They are located over the entire roof area in a certain order and in areas where there is the greatest need for moisture and vapor removal.
  2. Continuous aerators placed along the entire length of the roof. In turn, they are subdivided into ridge, pitched and tape (or tape). The tapes are mounted directly in the waterproofing layer.
  3. Turbine aerators are the most powerful. Exhaust of humid air is carried out using an electric drive. Turbine devices are able to extract the maximum amount of moisture not only from the layers of the roof, but also from the premises of the building. These models cannot be installed on steeply sloped roofs.

Installation features

Spot aerators on the roof are installed based on the estimated number. On a flat roof, they are placed evenly over the entire area, always in places of the greatest elevations and at the joints of heat-insulating plates. Usually at 100 m? install one aerator.

On pitched roofs, the deflectors are mounted as close to the ridge as possible, at a distance not exceeding 0.6 m from it. The number of devices is calculated depending on the area of ​​the roof and technical characteristics specific aerator.

Spot models in the roofing carpet are mounted using a specific technology. For each unit, a hole is prepared equal in diameter to the aerator pipe and completely passing into the insulation layer. A deflector pipe is installed in the hole, which is attached to the roof with self-tapping screws. The junction is hermetically sealed with the obligatory implementation of an additional layer of waterproofing.

Continuous aerators on the roof are installed in cases where additional strengthening of the air flow is required. This is required for complex roof structures and long slope lengths. When installing continuous structures, it is also necessary to carefully seal up the joints of the roof and ventilation devices. The installation, fastening and sealing principle of turbine aerators is the same as for point deflectors.

Prices for aerators

There are many modifications of aerators on the market. Their cost fluctuates in a wide range. The price for the simplest model is 260 rubles. About 3 thousand rubles. there is a turbine aerator. The choice depends on many parameters: the area and structure of the roof, the purpose of the building, the required exhaust power.

In any case, the cost of the exhaust device will pay off many times over, since its installation reduces the periods of roof repairs.

The aerator is installed both when installing a new roofing carpet, and when repairing an existing one. Moreover, new layers can be placed on top of the old ones, making work to clean the surfaces from contamination. The aerator will dry the layers already in use.

As you can see, this simple device is almost irreplaceable. By installing aerators on the roof, you will extend the life of the coating and minimize the frequency of repairs.

Useful video: rules for installing aerators on a flat roof

A common problem in roofing structures is the accumulation of moisture and condensation. A device called an aerator will help to solve it. It can also be called a weather vane or deflector. What is its functional purpose?

Main functions

They consist of three points:

  1. Prevention of the formation of condensation that forms in the lower layer of waterproofing. It negatively affects the material, reducing its waterproofing properties.
  2. Discharge of steam to the surface, rising from the interior. Its accumulation under the roof damages wooden structures.
  3. Protection against bulging and blistering by reducing pressure between layers roofing materials.

Now it is worth finding out, due to what reasons, the increased moisture content of the coating occurs.

Moisture formation in the roof structure

The most common and widely used is the soft roof. Especially when it comes to industrial and civil buildings. It consists of several layers called pie:

  • reinforced concrete floor;
  • vapor barrier interlayers;
  • screed from a sand-cement mixture;
  • thermal insulation coating;
  • waterproofing layer;
  • roof covering;

Of the items listed above, the most susceptible to moisture accumulation is vapor barrier. This can happen from the influence of various factors:

  • environmental influences;
  • raising vapors from the upper rooms through the attic floor.

In the first case, dampness appears if there is a violation of the coating. Different climatic conditions can lead to direct penetration of moisture and its accumulation from moist air.

In the second version, the rising steam settles on the vapor barrier and cement screed in the form of condensate. In a wet vapor barrier layer, thermal conductivity increases within 30-40%. In addition, fungus and mold form in the closed, unventilated space of the cake. (We recommend reading for a more complete disclosure of information the article on the protection of walls from various types of destructive effects.?) In addition, this trouble, the dampness of the roof can lead to other negative factors.

Effects of exposure to moisture

roofing aerator - weather vane

  1. Destruction of the screed. In most cases, it is made of a cement-sand mixture, after hardening it is a porous structure. The pores are normally filled with air. At high humidity, such a surface is capable of absorbing moisture and accumulating it. At low temperatures, the liquid in the pores freezes. In this case, crystallization and expansion occurs, which lead to the formation of microcracks and the destruction of the screed structure.
  2. Impact on the waterproofing layer. The processes taking place in the screed also affect the waterproofing, as a result of which its structure is destroyed.
  3. Swelling of the surface. This defect is caused by two factors:
  • steam is generated in the space under the ceiling. This occurs between the vapor barrier and waterproofing layer. The water accumulated between them at high temperatures turns into steam, due to this, the roof is swollen;
  • exposure to high temperatures in the summer season. Heating leads to changes in bitumen-polymer materials, that is, to their softening and an increase in plasticity, which causes the formation of blisters;

A roofing aerator for a soft roof will help you to avoid high humidity, as well as destruction and defects with it. It is only necessary to decide on the choice of the device.

Varieties of aerators

There are a lot of materials from which the roof deflector aerator is made, but the most effective of them are plastic and stainless steel. They are resistant to the following factors:

  • temperature drops;
  • exposure to ultraviolet rays;
  • corrosion;
  • acidic environment;

No matter what material the roof roofing aerator is made of, its main task is to remove condensate, weather moisture and ventilate the roofing space. Various sizes and modifications provide a roofing aerator, a photo of some of them is presented . They can be of various sizes and modifications.

The most the best option for soft roof is a roofing aerator technonikol 160x460mm, the photo shows that it consists of three parts. Its design provides:

  • long service life of the roofing;
  • removal of the resulting moisture from all layers of the roof;
  • improvement of thermal insulation properties;

One of the newest models is the eco-roofing aerator techno-nicol. It not only meets all the requirements of a "breathing" roof, but is also made from environmentally friendly raw materials.

If you want to get quality roof with a long service life, you should install the TechnoNIKOL roofing aerator. Its price fluctuates depending on the design and modification. You can always pick up the best option at cost.

Calculation of the number of aerators

First of all, you should decide on the number of ventilated deflectors. To do this, you need to know the surface area of ​​the roof and the technical data that the vane roof aerator provides. If the roof plane is inclined, they should be evenly spaced in the highest areas.

If the configuration of the coating is simple, then the norm provides for one roofing aerator per 100 m², you need to buy the calculated amount for installation.

An important point! The distance between the ventilation pipes should not be more than 12 meters.

You can install roofing aerators yourself, but for this you need to have minimal construction skills. If there are none, then it is better to turn to the services of specialists.

Installing a roof aerator

It can be carried out both during the arrangement of the roof, and already on the finished structure. In the first case, they must be laid down by the project. If the premises are known to have high humidity premises such as a bath or sauna. Ventilated outlets should be provided at the design stage of buildings. Such projects should only be conducted by special design organizations... In the second version, the roofing polyvent aerator is installed in the following sequence:

  1. The required number of places is marked on which the deflectors will be located.
  2. A window is cut in the right place in the screed. It should go deep to the location of the insulation.

IMPORTANT! If the vapor barrier layer is wet, it must be replaced with a dry one so that it meets the thermal insulation standards.

  1. Roofing aerators for flat roofs are installed in ready-made nests. The lower part of the pipe, which must be connected with a special mastic.
  2. Fastening must be done with self-tapping screws. They should be evenly spaced around the entire perimeter of the aerator skirt. Their total number must be at least six.
  3. The base of the nozzle from above is also additionally protected with waterproofing.

The roofing aerator for metal tiles has a different design and is mounted on both sides of the ridge with an indentation of at least 60 cm. It is advisable to carry out installation work in the summer.

In order to operate a soft roof for a long time and, just as importantly, safely, you need to take care of a competent ventilation device under the roof. The lack of ventilation of the space under the roof is fraught with a lot of troubles - from leaks, the smell of dampness to the very rapid destruction of the roof covering material, which, believe me, is not cheap at all. Installing aerators on a soft roof is one of the important elements, but not everyone uses it. We want to show the need for its device.

Installing aerators on a soft roof can solve the problem. The air circulating through these artificial ventilation ducts prevents the accumulation of condensate, respectively, protects wooden elements from decay, mold formation, dries out the layer of insulation of the roofing pie, and more.

Thus, the presence of ventilation aerators for a soft roof protects it from damage and guarantees comfortable living in the house.

Why does moisture condense under the roof

Even the presence of vapor barrier and waterproofing in the composition of the roofing cake cannot completely block the access of wet vapors, human waste products, from living quarters.

When warm steam comes into contact with a colder surface, then, as is known from the course of physics, it begins to condense, forming the smallest drops of water. They settle on various materials and structures (rafters, insulation, etc.) and impregnate them.

Moisture can get into the under-roof space and outside. The warm air accumulated in the attic warms up the roof from the inside, which causes the snow cover on the roof to melt in winter. As the temperature drops, ice forms in places. Under appropriate conditions, it also melts. Through the joints of the roofing material, water penetrates inside, and the roof, thus, begins to flow.

The roof covering also suffers. When the temperature drops, moisture entering the formed microcracks can destroy the material. As a result, microcracks become visible, possibly even through.

On a soft roof, the following defects are most common, caused by excess moisture:

  • Bubbles on the surface. As a rule, the top layer in the pie of such a roof is waterproofing, and the bottom layer is vapor barrier. In fact, they form a closed airtight loop.
  • In hot weather, the temperature of the roofing cake can reach as much as 100 °. In such conditions, the water accumulated in the circuit turns into steam, ready to evaporate. This can cause blistering of the surface or destruction of the roof.
  • The effectiveness of the insulation decreases. Wet insulation loses its effectiveness: getting wet by two percent increases the thermal conductivity of the insulation by forty percent. As a result, the roof begins to retain heat much worse. Accordingly, the cost of heating increases.
  • Overlap collapses. The structure of cement-sand compositions from which they are usually made is capillary-porous. As soon as the temperature drops, the water trapped in these pores crystallizes. Having increased in volume, it presses on the pores with greater force from the inside. As a result, they are destroyed.

What is the essence of roof aeration

Excess moisture from under the roof is removed by evaporation, which becomes possible due to the movement of air flows. The pressure readings inside and outside the house are very different, so the air will begin to circulate as soon as the two media are communicated.

Effective ventilation for a cold attic is fairly easy. It is enough to restrict dormer, crevices in the area of ​​the ridge or loose fit of the eaves overhangs.

In the case of warm attics or attic, such a solution is unacceptable, since in the cold season, unregulated ventilation will cause a decrease in the temperature in the premises.

The best option for them are roofing aerators for a soft roof (photo below), through which the spaces under and above the roof are connected. In the passage pipe of the aerator for shingles a forced draft is formed, caused by the pressure difference, which helps to draw the wet vapors outward.

shingle aerator

In order for the ventilation of the roof from the soft roof to function normally, air supply from the outside is necessary. They come through the ventilation gaps (air vents) provided on the eaves. The air received from the street in the process of passing through the warm attic heats up, then rushes up - directly to the roof. Draft formed in the roof aerator , discharges the air flow through the passage pipe and throws it out.

Installing aerators on a soft roof in the required amount ensures dryness of both the roofing and the insulation. It is noteworthy that ventilation of a soft roof through a roofing aerator can prevent the accumulation of moisture under the new roof, as well as dry the old cake, which has already been saturated with moisture.

Types of aerators

There are three types of installations working for ventilation of the under-roof space:

  • Continuous ones are mainly mounted on the ridge. The model must be positioned along the entire length of the junction of the slopes. Externally, the structure looks like a corner element with holes. The open cavities are protected by barriers that prevent precipitation, dust and insects from entering the roof.

  • Point aerators are located in certain areas of the roof, where moisture and steam removal is most needed. Most often these are stingrays, less often ridge. They are installed in a specific order. Each such construction is nothing more than a ventilation pipe with a protective cap. Usually the latter has the form of a "box" or "fungus".

  • Turbine ones are the most powerful: they extract moisture both from the roofing cake and from the premises of the house. To extract moist air, the device is equipped with an electric drive. Models of this type are selected taking into account the slope of the slope. It should also be noted that they are not suitable for installation on ramps with a large angle of inclination.

It is important to note that each type of roof covering requires a specific material aerator. Let's look at a few examples. Let's start with shingles.

  • In this case, the under-roof space aerator is made of polypropylene, which is highly impact-resistant. In addition, it successfully resists temperature extremes, ultraviolet radiation, and corrosion. As a rule, the joints of the slabs or the highest elevation of the slope are chosen as the installation locations.

  • For metal tiles. The aerator is made of metals that are resistant to various aggressive influences, including corrosion. Installed on almost any part of the roof.
  • For a professional sheet. Installations are made of the same material as in the previous case, only it must be installed closer to the ridge.

The design features suggest significant differences in the approach to installing aerators on a soft roof.

Installing aerators on a soft roof step by step

Recall what an aerator is (see the photo). This is an artificial ventilation duct that works both to draw moisture out from under the roof and circulates air.

Consider, separately, how each type of aerator, ridge and point, is mounted.

The device of the ridge option is extremely simple. It is suitable for roofs with a slope between 12 and 45 °.

  • On both sides of the ridge or at its top, a ventilation groove with a thickness of 30–80 mm is cut. The choice of a specific thickness is initially determined by the manufacturer. A circular saw is used to work with a solid base.
  • The slots should end before reaching the edge of the ridge by 300 mm, and not violate the integrity of the slopes on both sides.
  • On the solid areas remaining along the edges of the ridge, ridge tiles are applied.
  • Then a ridge aerator is applied. All of its segments are fixed on roofing elongated nails or on screws that are screwed through the finished holes on the part. The segments themselves are attached in the same way as the details of the constructor.
  • Ridge tiles are laid on the finished structure. The installation principle differs little from the usual method: the only difference is in the fastening elements. These must be elongated fasteners.
  • The tightness of the structure is provided by a silicone sealant, with which its ends are sealed.

Diagram of the device for point ventilation of a soft roof

The mounting scheme of the point version is somewhat more complicated:

  • As you know, a soft roof is laid on a solid sheathing of plywood or OSB. A hole is cut out in it, deepened to the heat-insulating layer. Its diameter must exactly match the dimensions of the internal opening of the artificial ventilation gap. If the diameter is smaller, then dents will begin to appear on the surface of the roof covering, where moisture or dirt will accumulate, but if it is larger, then an additional sealing gasket will be needed.
  • For marking, the skirt is placed on the crate, the contours of the ventilation duct opening are drawn with a pencil or nail, and a hole is cut out along the resulting contour with an electric jigsaw.
  • Above it is an aerator skirt, which is fixed with at least 6 roofing nails or screws.
  • A protective frame is put on the skirt and screwed on with self-tapping screws. After that, a cap is mounted that protects the roof cake from the penetration of precipitation, snapped into place and fastened to self-tapping screws.
  • The joint is sealed and an additional layer of waterproofing must be applied.
  • The installation of the remaining point models (according to calculations), which form a single ventilation system, is carried out in a similar way.
  • Tiles are laid on top of the skirt, trimming the petals along the abutment line.
  • When installing aerators, the size and shape of the roof, the state of the vapor barrier, and the degree of air humidity are taken into account.
  • The installation of aerators for a flat roof with a simple configuration is recommended at the rate of: 1 fungus / 100 sq. m of the roofing surface. However, they should be no more than 12 m apart from each other.
  • If the roof structure has valleys or a well-defined ridge, artificial ventilation ducts are placed in the watershed areas.
  • It is better to entrust the calculation of ventilated installation systems for buildings with a high level of humidity to construction project companies.
  • Professionals recommend assembling aeration systems from the same supplier. In this way, the risk of problems arising when defective parts are replaced can be reduced.

The most popular brands of aerator manufacturers

One of the first models in the family of solid devices is the ridge. Let's start with him.

  • Ridge Master Aerators(USA) (Plus and other HipMaster modification). The shape of the profile is construction, it is patented) eliminates damage.

Ridge Master models can only be mounted on strictly horizontal skates, They are not recommended for use on sloping ribs. For these cases, the Hip Master is suitable. Let us note some of the advantages of this manufacturer's ventilation aerators.

  • Special patented system for protection against atmospheric precipitation and wind. It has a special design internal partitions designed on a computer.
  • The protective frame is ultrasonically welded.
  • Built-in closing edges allow for quick and much more reliable connection of construction parts, increase resistance to weather influences, ensure an accurate fit to the slopes.
  • The aerator resists crushing with success. It provides support for fasteners, as well as specially designed ribs to keep the roofline straight and smooth.
  • The structure does not form dents, for example, from branches or cracks during sudden changes in temperature, it is resistant to hammer blows.
  • Manufacturer's warranty - 40 years.
  • TOsoft roof aerator Technonikol- completely similar to Ridge Master, but different in length. Ventilation efficiency: approx. 1 element / 25 sq.m.

Technonikol also offers different options point models. Here is some of them.

Soft roof aerators

The roof must always be dry. But now we are not talking about its outer side, but about the multiple inner layers of the roofing cake. At the same time, it should be dry, regardless of the materials used for finishing, be it metal, slate, ondulin or a soft bituminous coating. Condensation and moisture accumulated in the under-roof space can quickly render the entire roof unusable and significantly reduce its service life. To avoid excess moisture inside the cake, you will have to install soft roof aerators. Consider what they are and how they are installed.

Soft roof aerators

Why should it be dry under the roof?

To understand why it should always be dry under any roof, you first need to figure out where water can come from there, condensation can form. Indeed, during the construction of the roof, the masters always try to make it as tight as possible, they put various waterproofing and vapor barrier materials under the roofing, which, in theory, should provide reliable protection.

Why does condensation occur under the roof

The thing is that in a residential building there are various processes associated with human life... People breathe, prepare food, shower or bathe. And during all these processes, the air in the house is saturated with steam - in other words, it becomes humid. Warm air rises and enters under the roof if it cannot escape through the ventilation hole. Above, microscopic droplets of water settle on various materials - this is how condensation forms. At the same time, air saturated with water vapor easily penetrates even the most hard-to-reach places through microcracks.

On a note! During the day, a person exhales about 1 liter of liquid in the form of vapor into the air. Adding to this amount all the water that gets into the air during cooking, washing floors or taking a bath, you can get a huge figure - up to 15 liters of water gets into the air in the house during the day.

The accumulation of condensation under the roof poses a certain danger to all materials that make up the roofing cake. Wooden elements begin to soak in water, which causes decay processes. Such an environment is also favorable for the development of fungus and harmful microorganisms that are dangerous to the health of people living in the house.

Condensate is flowing from the metal tile

Metal elements (for example, fasteners) inside the roofing cake, due to the high level of humidity, begin to corrode and gradually deteriorate. If the water in the under-roof space, accumulated during the summer, freezes in winter, it can easily damage some structural details (even concrete floors), since, expanding, it will exert a pressing effect on the materials. Due to severe damage, the roof may even have to be completely dismantled and rebuilt.

Condensation on the inside of the underlay film

Also, the effect of moisture is destructive for insulating materials. If they get wet, then their thermal conductivity will increase significantly. This means that such a roof will no longer be able to retain heat well. In some cases, the insulation will need to be completely changed, because it will no longer be possible to fully dry it.

Moisture can get to structural elements roof and outside. During heavy rains, melting snow, water can still find a loophole and get under the roof or into the roofing cake, even if its outer surface is well sealed. It is not worth excluding this option of additional "humidification".

On a note! From the point of view of vulnerability, any soft roof suffers the most from excess moisture under the roof.

Soft roof and water

As for the soft roof, moisture is actively accumulating under it in the insulating layer. At the very least, this can cause the roof to bubble, especially when it comes to a soft bitumen covering laid on a flat concrete roof. In this case, bubbles can occur here's why: in summer, the roof can easily heat up to 90 degrees or more... As part of soft materials bitumen is always present, which is a thermoplastic substance - it reacts sharply to changes temperature regime(may become brittle in cold weather or soft and pliable in hot weather). When the material is heated above 50 degrees, the plasticity increases, and the quality of adhesion of the coating to the base depends at all not on adhesion at all, but on the viscosity of the components or mastic that make up the material, to which the coating was glued.

Roofing defect - formation of blisters in the roofing carpet

There is a closed, sealed space between the vapor barrier and waterproofing in the roof pie. As the temperature rises, the pressure in this area rises to 2-2.5 t / m 2. The waterproofing rises, lifts the roof covering, and thus bulges are formed.

To get rid of all the above problems, it is necessary to install an aerator during the installation of the roof... It will ensure the removal of air to the outside, and with it - and moisture. The device will drain the heat and waterproofing layers and prevent the accumulation of condensation.

Ridge aerator for soft roofs

What is an aerator and how does it work?

A roofing aerator is a structure that serves to remove moisture from under the roof, including that which has formed in the roofing cake itself, and not just in the house. This element can be installed on a variety of roofs with all kinds of slope angles and covered different materials... An aerator on a soft roof will prevent premature destruction of the entire roof structure due to moisture.

Scheme of operation of the ridge aerator

Inside the installed aerator, traction is created due to the formation of the area low pressure due to external wind flows and pressure differences in the space under the roof and the street. The main functions of this structure are as follows:

  • removing water vapor from the house to the outside;
  • reduction of the pressure inside the roof between the layers (the risk of bubbles on flat roofs is reduced);
  • reducing the risk of condensation forming on waterproofing materials.

Aerator installation diagram

Externally, the aerator is a pipe with a cross section of 63-110 mm, having an umbrella on top, which protects the structure from rain and snow getting inside. It can also be represented as ridge bar with lattice on the sides. The first aerator is installed on the roof slope, and its second variation is installed along the roof ridge.

Ridge ventilation tape

On a note! The aerator can be installed during construction or on a finished roof.

Varieties of aerators

Aerators may differ from each other in materials of manufacture and design features. Most often, plastic products are used, however, there are also metal (steel) products on sale, which are usually mounted on metal roofs. In fact, all aerators are resistant to sunlight, rust, and temperature extremes.

Aerator for shingles

Table. Types of aerators depending on design features.

Why do we need aerators for the roof, types and installation rules

The installation of aerators on the roof is necessary, since their presence prevents the destruction of the roof carpet under the influence of moisture that forms in the under-roof space.

The desire to save money on the arrangement of roof ventilation leads to many problems: first of all, the roof begins to leak, icicles collect on the eaves, and the smell of dampness appears in the house. As a result, the expensive coating material degrades very quickly. The fact is that moisture gets into the thermal insulation layer and elements rafter system.

The installation of a roofing aerator, which is an artificial ventilation duct, can solve this problem. Air circulates through it, drawing out excess moisture and drying the cake of the structure from the inside.

Causes of moisture in the roofing cake

Manufacturers of topcoats for roofs position their materials as airtight, so where does moisture appear in the roofing cake, but does it contain layers of vapor and waterproofing?

Unfortunately, the presence of wet vapors is present in any apartment or house. They are formed as a result of cooking, water treatment, washing and breathing of people. According to scientific research, it was found that in houses where a family of 4 lives, at least 2 liters of water vapor are generated per day. It partially settles in the under-roof space.

Condensation will form when warm steam comes into contact with cold surfaces. As a result, water droplets impregnate the materials and structural elements of the roof, into which they can penetrate. First of all, the pairs reach the insulation, the rafter system and the sheathing.

Another way of moisture penetration is the outside of the roof. Warm steam accumulates in the attic and heats the inside of the roofing. The snow that collects on the roof in winter begins to melt. When the air temperature drops, ice forms on the roof, and under certain conditions it can also melt. Water penetrates into the smallest gaps between the joints of the coating and leaks form on the roof.

The roofing material begins to gradually become covered with microcracks, into which moisture penetrates. In freezing temperatures, it freezes and tears apart the roof trim. Cracks grow more and more and turn into through cracks. As a result, the roofing becomes unusable.

What is a roofing aerator

This device consists of a pipe with a diameter of 6-11 centimeters, made of stainless steel or polypropylene. A cap is installed on top of it, which protects the fan from the penetration of sediments inside. The aerator helps to dry the thermal insulation layer and accelerates the evaporation of condensate.

These devices are used in regions with different weather conditions, since they have good performance parameters and can withstand temperature changes in a wide range, ranging from +90 to -50 degrees.

Roofing aerator for metal tiles and other types of roof coverings is intended for the following purposes:

  • ventilation of the layers of the roofing cake;
  • evaporation of condensate;
  • removal of moist air;
  • prevention of processes leading to the destruction of the roof;
  • avoidance of leaks.

The principle of operation of aerators is the appearance of a draft in the pipe, which occurs due to the low pressure created by external air currents.

Types of roof ventilation devices

According to the design features, there are several types of roof fans:

  1. Point... Such devices are mushroom-shaped and equipped with fans. They are installed in a place where access is limited - this can be a complex roof configuration or roof windows... Point products are divided into ridge and pitched. The first of them are mounted under the ridge - they are designed to remove condensate and vapors along the entire ridge structure. Aerators of this type are installed in areas that require enhanced circulation of air flows.
  2. Continuous... They are placed evenly over the entire roof surface and thus provide ventilation of all layers of the "pie", as well as areas of attics and attics. The most demanded of continuous aerators is a moisture-resistant ventilation tape, which is installed in a waterproofing layer, and a ridge fan.
  3. Turbine... They are produced in the form of a pipe and equipped with an electric fan or an electric hood. Experts advise giving preference to aluminum products, since they are resistant to corrosive processes and do not change shape when exposed to high temperatures.

When choosing a model of an aerator, the slope of the roof is taken into account. Typically, this information can be seen on the product packaging.

Choosing an aerator

A certain type of device is used for different roofing coatings. Aerators made of weather-resistant and impact-resistant polypropylene are suitable for soft materials (read also: “How the ventilation of a soft roof works - important features roof "). Usually they are placed equidistant from each other at the highest points of the roof covering or at the junction of thermal insulation plates.

Such a device performs the following functions:

  • reduces pressure in the under-roof space;
  • removes steam from the layers of the "cake";
  • prevents the formation of condensation.

The fan housing of the aerator for metal tiles is made of materials that are resistant to corrosion and aggressive environments, to the effects of different temperatures and ultraviolet radiation. Polypropylene and stainless steel meet these requirements.

For coverings from corrugated board for the body of the deflector, the same materials are used as for metal roofs.

Installation of ridge aerators

Installation of this type of device is simple, and there is no need for complex calculations. The ridge aerator is placed along the entire length of the ridge. Experts recommend using this product for roofs with a slope of 12 to 45 degrees. It is mounted exclusively on the ridge and thereby provides air ventilation in the attic space.

Conditions for using the ridge aerator:

  1. In order to ensure the flow of air, it is necessary to have air vents on the overhangs.
  2. The device should be mounted along the entire length of the ridge - its segments are connected into a single structure.
  3. On top of the assembled product, ridge tiles are laid, and therefore the appearance of the roof will not be affected by the presence of a fan on it.

Arrangement of a ridge aerator for metal tiles or soft roofs is performed in a certain sequence:

  1. Use a circular saw to cut the ventilation slot. There can be either one (at the top of the ridge) or two (on both sides). Depending on the manufacturer's recommendations for a particular aerator model, the total gap thickness should be from 3 to 8 centimeters. The slots are cut so that they do not reach about 30 centimeters to the edge of the ridge. As a result, the roof on its sides is solid.
  2. In a place on the ridge, where the gap was not made, ridge tiles are laid.
  3. They begin to install the aerator: each segment is fixed with roofing nails or screws, which are screwed in through ready-made holes made at the manufacturing plant. The individual parts of the product are assembled into a single structure in the same way as they do with the details of the designer.
  4. The profile of the ventilation product is covered with ridge tiles - the petals of the roofing material are overlapped. Long special nails are used to attach the cover to the ventilation device.
  5. The contact points of the ends with the roof are treated with silicone sealant.

Features of mounting point devices on metal tiles

Aerators of this type are installed:

  • on flat roofs or roofs with a slope of less than 12 degrees;
  • as a complement to another type of device in order to improve ventilation efficiency;
  • if it is not possible to equip a ridge product, for example, because there is no ridge, or there is an abutment of the roof covering to walls or vertically located surfaces.

Conditions for using the spot aerator:

  1. They are mounted on slopes, keeping a distance of 50-80 centimeters from the horizontally located edge of the ridge.
  2. The overhangs must be provided with air flow.
  3. One point device is capable of providing high-quality ventilation in an area of ​​up to 5 - 100 "squares" of the roof, depending on its model. Based on this value, the required number of ventilation products is calculated.

Roof point installation technology:

  1. A hole is made in the solid crate, which should match in size with the parameter of the inner channel of the aerator. To do this, a base skirt of the device is applied to the surface of a plywood sheet or OSB board and the contours of the gap are applied to the roof with a nail or pencil through the passage channel. Use an electric jigsaw to cut a hole along the drawn line.
  2. A skirt of the device is placed on top of it and attached with screws or roofing nails in an amount of at least 6 pieces. Some manufacturing companies recommend using, in addition to fasteners, an adhesive fixation. In this case, bitumen mastic is applied to the back surface of the skirt, glued, and then only the fastening parts are used.
  3. For the purpose of waterproofing the junction points, bitumen glue is used over the skirt.
  4. Shingles of shingles, cut at the points of contact, cover the skirt.
  5. On top of it, place an aerator mesh and fix it with self-tapping screws. Then the cap (cover) is installed, snapped into place and again used for fastening screws.

Similarly, other point aerators for the roof are mounted according to the calculation made, which will eventually form a single ventilation system.

As you can see from the above information, the installation of such devices is not a difficult job - inexperienced self-taught craftsmen can easily cope with it.

Due to the presence of aerators on the roofs, water vapor is removed from the roofing cake, the formation of condensation, the spread of fungus and mold, and an unpleasant odor are prevented. The absence of these unfavorable factors has a positive effect on the duration of the service life of wooden elements of the roofing structure and on the state of the microclimate in the residential and utility rooms of the house.

For installation and operation, you need to use special tools. We propose to consider what and how a roofing aerator works for soft roofs, corrugated sheets and for tiles, what is the price and what brands of deflector are most popular now.

general information

Roofing deflector, TP-71.100 aerator is a device that is installed under the roofing material on the roof, see photo.

Photo - Roofing aerator

Its main function is to fill the roof with fresh air, while removing moisture, musty air, dust and gases from the ventilation cushion. If you do not use this device, then there is a high probability that over time the roof will sag and begin to collapse from the inside. The deflector is necessary not only in structures where there are slopes, many craftsmen recommend installing it in flat roofs made of tiles or profile decking for organizing surface drying and ventilation.

Photo - Roof aerators on a flat roof

There are different types installation of aerators, types and designs, depending on the roof slope, needs, climatic features of the region, you need to select a device.

Benefits of installing aerators:

  1. Organization of ventilation;
  2. Condensate drainage, which significantly increases the durability of the roof;
  3. Fresh indoor air;
  4. Extending the durability of the roof from metal materials(galvanized polymer corrugated board, bituminous tiles) and wooden;
  5. Reducing the likelihood of mold or other harmful microorganisms.


Video: installation of a roofing aerator

Description of the principle of operation

The technology can be used for work natural ventilation or forced. Natural is the opening of certain areas of the roof, where fresh air enters or the sun's rays enter. With forced, everything is a little more complicated, here aerators are installed all over the roof according to a certain scheme, when they come into operation, the air begins to be distilled from one device to another. The roof installation standard recommends the second option for installation, which is more efficient and effective.


Photo - Roof aerator design

Consider forced aeration. The entire surface is flat or shed roof in a certain sequence, you need to install aerators. In addition to the devices themselves, a tubular outlet must be provided for each of them. This roof element is responsible for air circulation. The calculation is carried out according to the following principle: for every 50 centimeters, an outlet of the aerator is installed, which must be connected to the next one using a pipe. In addition, the weather vane must also be installed in the height of the roof, at the joints of insulating films or coatings.


Photo - Ridge aerators

For a roof with slopes, the system is a little more complicated, in particular, installation is carried out only at the upper points of the roof, at a distance of 50-60 centimeters from the ridge. This is necessary for the most efficient removal of humid air. In addition, at this point the most highest temperature throughout the roof space. The installation step is calculated taking into account the distance between the weather vane from 50 cm to 70 (depending on the size of the roof). Sometimes the arrangement is staggered to help improve circulation.

Make an aerator - installation instructions

A homemade aerator is a very real design, it can be made without special skills or materials. Basic requirements for the design of the weather vane:

  1. It should be with a steel base. Ordinary steel is not sufficiently strong material, mainly alloyed material is used, with chromium or nickel;
  2. Dimensions are calculated based on the needs of the roof and climatic conditions. If you live in arid areas, then there is no need to install large aerators;
  3. PVC pipes are sometimes used for metal tiles.

After the manufacture of pipes and aerators the right size, a hole is made in the roof, the diameter of which coincides with the hole of the pipe. In addition, experts also advise to insulate this area. The lower part of the tube and the corner of the gutter Ф100 are covered with special mastic, sealant or oil and tightly fixed at the base of the branch pipe. To minimize the likelihood of the roof getting wet from the inside, filling the aerator pipes with water or dust, a so-called skirt is installed on the top of the aerator, which protects the weather vane from external factors. Insulation is reinstalled on top of the entire structure.


Photo - Dry filler for aerators

Periodically, it is necessary to remove dirt and stagnant water from the aerator pipes. To make this possible, a valve is provided in the design, with which you can easily remove the top layer of roofing material covering the deflector.

The installation of the deflector must be approached very seriously. It is important to choose the right skate or flat aerator... The products of Technonikol have proven themselves well - they are an ultra light and durable metal roofing aerator.


Photo - Insulation of the aerator

Price overview

You can buy a roofing aerator in Russia, Belarus or Ukraine in any store where additional roofing materials are sold. The price list is based on open sources, when buying, we recommend that you check the cost with the sellers of the selected company:

Photo - Simple aerator

The following brands of roofing aerators are now most popular: ALIPAI 110, VILPE ​​CLASSIC-KTV, silicone MASTER ROOF d200-300, Belgian IKO Armourvent Special, Maxi-KTV (Maxi KTV), Sika membranes, ULTRA / ULTRA M (copper), POLIVENT-PREMIUM ... The cost directly depends on the footage of pipes, the number of aerators and the seller (manufacturer). Be sure to check the certificate of conformity and quality before buying, and also clarify the moment on the account of the return of the goods, if necessary.