How Balanced Attic Ventilation Works
Balanced attic ventilation depends on two parts of the same system: intake and exhaust.
Intake vents near the eaves- An eave is the lower roof edge that extends past the exterior wall, usually where water leaves the roof and enters a gutter. More draw cooler outside air into the attic. As that air enters, it helps push warmer attic air that naturally rises out through exhaust vents near the top of the roof.
To work, the system needs to be balanced because one part cannot do the other part’s job. More exhaust does not help much if air cannot enter from below and push it out. More intake will not move attic air well if it has nowhere to exit. There must be a proper ratio of both parts.
When intake and exhaust work together, the attic can stay closer to the outdoor temperature and release trapped heat and moisture consistently.