Interesting point about the turbines... did you ever try replacing the bearings themselves, or was it just easier to switch over to ridge vents when you reroofed? I've heard from a couple friends that swapping out bearings can extend their life quite a bit, but honestly, I don't know if I'd have the patience for that myself, haha. Ridge vents seem like a solid solution, especially if you're already getting the roof redone anyway. Did you notice any difference in attic temps or moisture levels after switching? Curious if there's a noticeable improvement beyond just getting rid of the squeaking.
I get the appeal of ridge vents, but honestly, when my turbines started squeaking I just bit the bullet and replaced the bearings myself. Took a couple hours and some patience, but they've been quiet and running smooth for five years since. Might be worth reconsidering before ditching them altogether.
Gotta hand it to you, replacing bearings yourself is pretty impressive. Last time I tried something similar, it ended with me chasing tiny ball bearings across my driveway for an hour. Neighbors probably thought I'd lost my mind crawling around muttering under my breath.
Honestly though, turbines get a bad rap sometimes. Sure, ridge vents look sleek and all, but turbines have their charm—especially when they're spinning quietly after some TLC. My dad had turbines on his old place for decades. Every few years he'd climb up there, WD-40 in hand, and give them a good talking-to. Swore by them till the day he moved out.
I manage a few properties now, and I've seen both setups in action. Ridge vents are great if installed right, but I've also seen some botched jobs that left attics hotter than a sauna in July. Turbines might squeak occasionally, but at least you know they're working when they're spinning away up there.
Funny story: one tenant called me panicking because she thought someone was trying to break into her attic—turned out it was just a squeaky turbine on a windy night. A quick spray of lubricant later and crisis averted...though she still eyes that thing suspiciously whenever the wind picks up.
Anyway, props to you for tackling the bearings yourself. If mine ever start squeaking again, maybe I'll give it another shot—just gotta make sure I have plenty of patience (and maybe a magnet) handy next time.
Gotta admit, turbines do have their moments, but WD-40? Nah, that's a rookie move. It dries out way too fast, and you'll be back up there in no time. Next time, try a silicone-based lubricant—lasts longer and won't attract dirt. Learned that the hard way after climbing roofs more times than I'd like to admit. And magnets for bearings? Genius...wish I'd thought of that before losing half a dozen down my gutters.
"Next time, try a silicone-based lubricant—lasts longer and won't attract dirt. Learned that the hard way after climbing roofs more times than I'd like to admit."
Haha, I feel this pain so much. WD-40 seems like the universal quick fix until you realize it's more of a temporary band-aid than anything else. Silicone-based lubes are definitely the way to go—learned that early on from a seasoned roofer who took pity on me after watching me struggle with squeaky turbines for hours. He handed me a can, said "trust me," and I've never looked back.
And magnets for bearings? That's some next-level thinking right there. Wish I'd known about that trick a few months ago when I spent half an afternoon fishing bearings out of a customer's flower bed. Pretty sure they're still finding random pieces in their garden beds to this day...
But honestly, it's great to hear you finally found a roofing company that's treating you right. Good roofers are worth their weight in gold, especially ones who take the time to explain things clearly instead of just handing you a hefty bill and disappearing. I've seen both sides of it, and believe me, it's night and day. Stick with them if they're honest and straightforward—it's rare enough in this industry.
Also, quick tip from one apprentice to another: keep a small magnet in your tool belt or pocket. Saved me more times than I care to admit when screws or nails decide to make a run for it down the shingles. It won't solve every problem, but it'll save you some headaches (and gutter diving missions).
