What is better for my roof... ridge vent or louvers?

Question

I am getting my roof replaced soon and got a couple bids... one is reccomending ridge vent and the other is wanting to add 3 more louvers to the roof which currently has 4. Difference in bid is about $1000.00 both co's have good reputations. cheeper co wants to do the louvers and the guy lives 2 miles up the road... we just want to do things right

Answer 1

Ridge vent is not that costly. It's not hard to install so it shouldn't add much to the labor cost. If they're taking all the old shingles off, all they need do is remove a bit of the roof sheathing at the top to allow air to come out. The ridge vent makes a top cap that completely covers that opening. We have ridge vent on our rehabbed homes and on one building we left the gable vents in. Won't hurt. Ventilation is good.

Answer 2

Attic ventilation is a requirement in most codes since version 1997 UBC, most municipalities have adopted 2006 IRC.  In order to vent the attic, you need low and high vents, which is a combination of both.  You did not mention the linear feet of your ridge so there is no way that anyone can determine if the additional $1000 is a good price or not.

Answer 3

I have been told that ridge vent is much more efficent but much more costly. You need to determine how long you plan on staying in that house.