GBA Logo horizontal Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram YouTube Icon Navigation Search Icon Main Search Icon Video Play Icon Plus Icon Minus Icon Picture icon Hamburger Icon Close Icon Sorted

Community and Q&A

Tile roof install in Climate Zone 3C – venting possible without soffit vents?

2pyHuV5mFM | Posted in Energy Efficiency and Durability on

I am building a new replacement roof to include structure and clay tile roofing. The design has an historic plaster soffit detail that does not appear vent-able.

Is it possible to provide for proper air flow otherwise? I am wanting to give up and just spray foam the bottom of the deck, treating the attic space as conditioned.

Thanks for any advice.

GBA Prime

Join the leading community of building science experts

Become a GBA Prime member and get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

Replies

  1. GBA Editor
    Martin Holladay | | #1

    Rachel,
    Relax. Every clay tile roof (or concrete tile roof) is vented, whether you want it to be or not. These types of roofing are completely open to the air; plenty of ventilation occurs under clay tiles and concrete tiles due to normal wind effects and temperature changes during the day.

    Most tile roofs aren't equipped with soffit vents. Instead, roofers install birdstop metal at the eaves. (See photo below.) The birdstop metal isn't airtight -- lots of air can enter at the eaves.

Log in or create an account to post an answer.

Community

Recent Questions and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |