Getting attic airflow right: my step-by-step for better roof health

Funny you mention the cardboard baffles - wasn’t sure about them at first, but after a couple attic jobs last summer, I’m starting to trust them more than the plastic ones. Haven’t seen any sagging yet, even after a few heat waves. On the mesh, I hear you about the fine stuff clogging. Around here (lots of pines and birch), it’s a constant battle. Ever tried that stainless steel mesh? Expensive, but I’m tempted since the critters chewed through my last set... Wonder if it’s overkill or worth it in the long run.

Ever tried that stainless steel mesh? Expensive, but I’m tempted since the critters chewed through my last set... Wonder if it’s overkill or worth it in the long run.

I get the appeal of stainless, but have you looked into the aluminum options? They’re a bit cheaper and still hold up better than plastic or the finer mesh stuff. I’ve had squirrels chew through regular mesh but not aluminum so far. Only thing is, aluminum can dent if you’re not careful during install. Curious if anyone’s actually seen stainless last longer in real-world use, or if it’s just paying for peace of mind.

I went with aluminum mesh last year after raccoons trashed my old plastic vents. It was a bit of a pain to install - dented a couple spots when I got impatient, but nothing a little bending couldn’t fix. Price was right, and so far, no critter break-ins. Stainless looked tempting, but honestly, I couldn’t justify the extra cost for my old house. Maybe if you’re in squirrel central or just want to set it and forget it, stainless makes sense... but for me, aluminum’s been solid.

I’m with you on the aluminum mesh - didn’t want to spend a fortune, and it’s kept the raccoons out so far. I did debate stainless too, but honestly, my budget had other plans. Those dents are almost a rite of passage, right?

- Aluminum mesh is definitely easier on the wallet, but I’ve seen it corrode pretty quick in coastal areas or spots with a lot of rain.
- Stainless can be pricey, but if you’re in a damp climate, it might save you headaches down the line.
- Those dents are almost like battle scars, yeah... but if they get too deep, sometimes critters find their way in anyway.
- Had a client last year who thought the mesh was holding up - turned out squirrels had chewed right through where it was bent.
- Maybe just keep an eye on those spots and swap ‘em out if they start looking rough? Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves you patchwork later.