If you’re installing a new shingle roof, now is the perfect time to make sure your attic ventilation is up to date. One critical part of that system is soffit vents. These are installed on the underside of the roofline, so you might not be able to see them.
However, they are crucial for your roof and your home. Without them, your attic can overheat, moisture can build up, and your roof won’t last as long as it should.
As a reputable roofing company, we’ve worked on hundreds of homes and know that not all soffit vents are created equal. Choosing the right type depends on your roof design, climate, and airflow needs. Below are seven of the best soffit vents for homeowners looking to protect their investment and extend the life of their new shingle roof.
#1 AirVent Continuous Soffit Vent (Aluminum)
Our first soffit vent comes from the trusted manufacturer Air Vent. This is the flagship ventilation brand of the powerhouse Gibraltar Building Accessories.
AirVent Continuous Soffit Vent is a durable aluminum option designed for consistent airflow along your roof’s eaves. With each section measuring 8 feet long, it provides 9 square inches of net free area (NFA) per linear foot, ensuring effective ventilation. Also, it is bi-directional, so it can manage the airflow more efficiently.
This vent is available in various colors, including White, Mill, and Brown, to match your home’s exterior.
Features:
- Constructed from rust-resistant aluminum for longevity.
- Provides up to 9 square inches of NFA per linear foot.
- Available in multiple colors to complement different home styles.
#2 CertainTeed InvisiVent Soffit
If you have been reading our blog posts, you might have noticed how highly CertainTeed shingles are rated. But this is not the only product that’s worth mentioning. CertainTeed’s InvisiVent® Soffit is also quite popular. This continuous vinyl soffit offers a sleek design that blends seamlessly with your home’s exterior. Made from heavy-duty .044-inch thick vinyl, it provides over 10 inches of NFA per square foot, enhancing attic ventilation. The PermaCOLOR System ensures long-lasting color performance.
Features:
- High-performance ventilation with over 10 inches of NFA per square foot.
- Constructed from durable vinyl.
- Available in eight fade-resistant colors, including Black and Desert Tan.
#3 GAF Master Flow Undereave Intake Vent
Our next product is the Master Flow™ Undereave Intake Vent by GAF. This popular soffit vent enhances attic ventilation, promoting a healthier and more energy-efficient home. This durable, weather-resistant vent allows fresh air to enter the attic. The vent is made from aluminum and is perfect for both older construction and newer homes.
Features:
- Ideal for all types of construction.
- Allows for continuous ventilation into the attic.
- Easy to install as it comes in 8-foot sections.
Note: If your home does not have space for soffit vents, consider another product from GAF, the Cobra IntakePro® Rooftop Intake Vent.
#4 Lomanco Continuous Soffit Vent
Lomanco, primarily known for its external roof vents, has a great collection of soffits too. The Lomanco® Continuous Soffit Vent provides a seamless ventilation solution for the underside of roof eaves. Made entirely from aluminum for lasting performance, these vents come in convenient 8-foot sections that can be trimmed at 2-foot intervals to fit your specific installation needs.
Features:
- Aluminum is durable and resistant to rust.
- Features a mounting flange for proper fit with soffit boards.
- Designed with 1-by-⅛-inch louvered openings for optimal airflow.
- Multiple designs, each with a different width.
#5 Duraflo Continuous Soffit Vent
Duraflo Continuous Soffit Vent is a strip vent made from high-grade plastic, offering exceptional flexibility and resistance to weather and pests. These 8-foot strip vents are designed to run continuously beneath the eaves, ensuring consistent and balanced airflow throughout the soffit area. The strategic placement of these vents provides the critical intake ventilation needed for a properly functioning attic system.
Features:
- Made from UV-resistant plastic for durability in harsh outdoor conditions.
- Flexible design allows for easy installation around corners and on different soffit configurations.
- 2-Inch wide vent strips allow for constant ventilation.
#6 Ply Gem Performance Double 5” Standard Soffit
Ply Gem, one of the most reliable vinyl siding manufacturers, is also known for its vinyl soffits. Their Performance Double 5” Standard Soffit doubles as both a soffit covering and an intake vent. They’re designed for durability and come in six different colors. This soffit is durable, aesthetically pleasing, and recyclable. Ply Gem also offers a limited lifetime warranty with this product.
Features:
- Strong visual match with vinyl siding.
- Available in both solid and vented options.
- Provides good airflow without compromising appearance.
#7 Vulcan Soffit Vents
Vulcan Soffit Vents are designed to protect homes from wildfire threats while still allowing airflow. Their unique honeycomb structure and baffle-free design provide excellent ventilation. Built with safety in mind, these vents include an ember-catching screen and a special coating that seals shut in extreme heat, blocking flames and embers. They’re compatible with various construction types, including stucco, wood, foam systems, fiber cement, and retrofit projects.
- Offers consistent airflow for better ventilation.
- Fire-resistant design seals shut during high heat.
- Works with both new builds and retrofits.
How to Choose the Right Soffit Vent
Before you decide on a product, think about your home’s architecture and ventilation goals.
- NFA Requirements: You want balanced airflow. For every 300 square feet of attic floor space, aim for 1 square foot of ventilation (split between intake and exhaust).
- Material Compatibility: Match aluminum soffit vents with aluminum trim and vinyl with vinyl siding. This isn’t just for looks, material matching prevents corrosion and ensures long-term performance.
- Installation Type: Continuous strip vents are best for even airflow. Individual vents work well for spot coverage or smaller homes.
- Climate Considerations: In wetter or coastal areas, choose rust-proof materials and vents with insect screens.
If you’re unsure, talk to a roofing professional. The right soffit vent depends on your roof’s pitch, attic size, and exhaust vent setup.
Best Soffit and Fascia Board Services In Wisconsin
If you’re getting a new roof, it’s the perfect time to assess your attic ventilation. Adding or upgrading soffit vents is a simple, effective way to protect your roof and your home. Whether you go with a continuous aluminum vent, subtle vinyl panels, or want something different like a round soffit vent, always make sure your system is balanced and built to last.
Need help deciding what’s best for your roof? Reach out to our team at Prestige Roofing LLC. We offer the best soffit and fascia services and are here to guide you to the right choice. Contact us today at (920) 791-0414.