A wood roof in Georgia needs 1 square foot of ventilation for every 150 square feet of attic space. Learn why proper airflow is critical for wood roof performance and durability.

How much ventilation does a wood roof need?

Wood Roofing FAQs
October 24, 2025•2 min read

How Much Ventilation Does a Wood Roof Need?

A wood roof typically requires ventilation following the 1:150 rule—that’s 1 square foot of net free vent area for every 150 square feet of attic space.

This airflow is crucial to:

  • Prevent heat buildup in summer

  • Reduce moisture in winter

  • Extend the lifespan of your wood shingles or shakes

For homes in Georgia’s humid climate, proper ventilation is even more important. Humidity can get trapped under the roof and lead to rot, mold, mildew, and premature roof failure.

What’s the Best Way to Vent a Wood Roof?

A balanced system using both ridge vents and soffit vents works best:

  • Soffit vents bring in cool air at the roof’s edge.

  • Ridge vents let out warm, moist air at the peak.

This continuous airflow helps keep your attic dry and your roof deck in good shape year-round.

Why Does Ventilation Matter for Wood Roofs?

Without proper ventilation:

  • Wood shakes and shingles can warp, crack, or decay

  • Insulation can get damp and lose effectiveness

  • Your HVAC system works harder, raising energy bills

  • Roofing warranties may be voided

Proper airflow protects your investment. Don’t skip it.

FAQs

Is the 1:150 ventilation rule required by code in Georgia?
Yes. The International Residential Code (IRC) and most local Georgia codes follow the 1:150 ratio unless a vapor barrier is used, in which case 1:300 may apply.

Can I install just ridge vents without soffit vents?
Not recommended. Ventilation systems need intake and exhaust. Ridge-only systems often underperform.

What happens if my attic is under-ventilated?
Under-ventilation leads to trapped heat and moisture. This causes wood rot, shingle failure, mold, and poor energy performance.

How do I know if my attic is properly ventilated?
Look for signs like:

  • High summer attic temps

  • Moisture or frost on roof decking in winter

  • Mold or mildew in attic insulation

  • Curling or cracking wood shakes

If you're unsure, call Roof Nuts at 404-476-6851 for a ventilation inspection.

Serving All Major Cities in Georgia

We help homeowners across:

  • Atlanta

  • Augusta

  • Columbus

  • Macon

  • Savannah

  • Athens

  • Sandy Springs

  • Roswell

  • Johns Creek

  • Warner Robins

Need to fix or inspect your wood roof ventilation?
Contact Roof Nuts today or call 404-476-6851.

Proper ventilation = longer roof life and lower energy bills.

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