How do you install a roof ventilator such as a turbine?
Short answer. A turbine ventilator is installed like a large box vent: cut a round opening between rafters near the ridge, set the adjustable base so its flange slides under the shingles above and over those below, then turn the base until the turbine head sits perfectly level. Powered ventilators add a thermostat and a circuit, which is a job for an electrician.
Before installing
- Turbines come in common throat sizes such as 12 and 14 inches; the opening is cut to the throat size.
- Check the attic for intake. A turbine without soffit vents spins but pulls air from the house.
- Do not add a turbine to an attic with a ridge vent. The two compete.
Installing a turbine
- Locate: from the attic, pick a bay near the ridge, clear of rafters and wiring, and drive a nail up as a marker.
- Cut: trace the base's opening and cut through the deck only.
- Flash: loosen the shingles above, slide the base's upper flange under them and let the lower flange lap over the shingles below.
- Fasten: nail the flange, renail the shingles, seal exposed nail heads.
- Level the head: rotate the adjustable base until the turbine sits plumb, checked with a level. A leaning head wobbles, wears its bearings and can let rain in.
- Lock: tighten the base adjustment screws.
Powered ventilators
Installation is similar, with a larger opening and a thermostat mounted in the attic. Wiring, a dedicated circuit if needed, and any required high temperature shutoff belong to a licensed electrician.
Care
Turbines in Georgia's pollen season collect grime that slows them. A squealing or stopped turbine needs lubrication or replacement, and a cracked or dented one after hail should be photographed for a claim. See ridge vent vs box vents and roof flashing explained.