What ridge vent means
A ridge vent is a low profile vent that runs along the ridge under the cap shingles. Warm, moist attic air leaves through it while fresh air comes in at the soffits.
Where it matters on a roofing job
Cutting the slot and capping it is quick on a reroof and costs little next to the job. It only works with intake at the soffits and without other exhaust vents short circuiting it, so check the whole attic before you promise it fixes moisture.
What the model code says
- The required net free vent area is 1/150 of the vented attic space, with a smaller ratio allowed in some cases. (IRC 2021, Chapter 8)
Check which code edition your building department enforces for ridge vent before you quote.
What it costs
The roof replacement cost guide has the typical job at $9,350 and the usual range at $5,800 to $13,000. The guide shows its sources and what moves the price. The roofing materials calculator prices a job line by line.
Work it out
- Free calculator: Roofing materials calculator
- Cost guide: Roof replacement cost
- Licensing: Roofing license rules by state
- Tools, templates and guides: Free roofing resources
Sources: 2021 International Residential Code, Chapter 8, Roof-Ceiling Construction (ICC). Checked October 9, 2026.