Ridge Vent Cap

Besides the obvious reasons of other moisture getting in due to not being properly capped and aesthetics, is there other reasons for capping a ridge vent?

Here's a closer shot of the vent showing the exposed nails.

Awww... could we have another hint?

Philo wrote:Awww... could we have another hint?

I guess I could have clarified a little better, I'm trying to figure how how I want to write this up. I have till Thursday when I do the actual inspection. Today was just setting up Radon equipment and looking at the outside while I had daylight because Thursday will be a late (5PM start time) inspection.

from what I see, you have more than a ridge cap to report; looks like a new roof is needed

The roof actually wasn't bad. I'm holding off on saying more because I have not been in the attic yet. I do know there was one "soft" spot that I want to check out before I say too much else.

10-4. the picture (at that angle) makes it look like there is significant granule loss

I think you are looking at the ridge vent. Seen these a few times, metal ridge vent.

See this link: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Master-Flow-10-ft-Aluminum-Ridge-Vent-in-Black-AR10BL/100001245

This message was edited 2 times. Last update was at 12/08/2014 10:15 PM EST

Those are common, but a very poor design IMO, specifically because of all the exposed nail heads. Don't report on it as being improper, it is accepted method of capping a ridge even though it's an old product and just dumb.

It is likely that the nail heads will seal themselves when they pierce the shingles below. Regardless, I typically recommend all the nails be seated properly and sealed with an appropriate roofing tar or all weather caulk to prevent potential leaks.

I agree. I've seen them leak and or blow off the house even here in SoCal. Not used much anymore on comp roofs.

Thanks!

Thanks guys! I will definitely take another look at it when I go back on Thursday

Chad, what do you mean by: "not being properly capped"?

I have extensive roof experience, but have not heard your term b4.

Pete Campbell wrote:Chad, what do you mean by: "not being properly capped"?

I have extensive roof experience, but have not heard your term b4.

All of the ridge vents I have looked at prior to this one...... all had shingles covering the ridge vent. When I first saw this, I thought the shingles were left off, but thanks to the wonderful gentlemen on here, I learned something.

Pete....."capped off" is just a term to describe the ridge cap. This word is very commonly used up here maybe not in your region. The ridge vent in his picture is metal and doesn't need ridge cap. However, if this were exposed roll vent it would need a ridge cap or "capped off" as some people say....

That looks familiar from an inspection today