I get where you’re coming from on the solar vents, but I’ve actually had a different experience. We put one in at my uncle’s place about six years ago—cheap brand, too—and it’s still spinning. Maybe it’s luck, or maybe the newer models are just better than the old ones that used to seize up all the time. I do agree, though, if you’re not checking on them, they can turn into a useless hole real fast.
About those baffles: I was skeptical at first, but after crawling through a few attics with and without them, I’d take baffles every time. They’re not perfect—yeah, dust and the occasional critter can get in there—but it beats having insulation jammed up against the soffit vents and killing all your airflow. Just gotta make sure they’re installed right and not crushed by heavy insulation. I’ve seen people use cardboard as a DIY fix and that’s just asking for trouble when it gets damp.
I’m not sold on green roofs down here either. Too much hassle with our humidity. Maybe if you like weeding your roof as a hobby...
