Leaks after a new install are the worst, especially when you’re sure the flashing’s done right. I get why you’d lean gable—less messing with the roof deck. Still, if you ever do go roof-mount, I’ve found using a high-quality flashing kit and plenty of sealant helps a ton. Sometimes it’s just that one weird rain angle that finds a way in...
Sometimes it’s just that one weird rain angle that finds a way in...
Ain’t that the truth. I swear, water’s got a sixth sense for finding the tiniest gap. I’ve had roof-mount fans on my last two houses—both asphalt shingle, both in the Midwest where we get those sideways spring storms. Even with the “right” flashing and a tube of sealant, I still ended up chasing a drip or two after a big wind. Not fun crawling around the attic with a flashlight at 2am.
Gable-mount’s definitely less nerve-wracking if you’re worried about leaks, but I will say, sometimes the airflow isn’t quite as direct. Depends on your attic shape and vent placement. If you’ve got a simple roofline, gable works fine. More complicated layouts, roof-mount might pull air better... but yeah, you’re rolling the dice with the weather.
If you do go roof-mount, I’d double-check the warranty on your shingles. Some brands get picky about what you poke through. Learned that the hard way—oops.
If you do go roof-mount, I’d double-check the warranty on your shingles. Some brands get picky about what you poke through.
That’s a good point—I actually had to fight with my shingle warranty once after adding a vent. Ended up costing more than I thought. Gable-mount felt like a safer bet for me, even if it’s not perfect airflow-wise. Anyone else notice roof-mount fans are noisier too, or is that just my setup?
Funny you mention the noise—my uncle’s got a roof-mount fan and it sounds like a helicopter taking off when it kicks in. I always figured it was just his old house, but maybe there’s something to the design that makes them louder? I’ve only messed with gable-mounts so far, and they’re pretty quiet, but I do wonder if I’m missing out on better airflow. Anyone ever try soundproofing around a roof fan, or is that just asking for trouble with heat buildup?
Yeah, roof-mounts are just noisier by design, especially if they’re older or not installed super tight. I’d be careful with soundproofing, though—anything that blocks airflow can cause heat to back up and mess with your attic temps. Gable fans might move less air, but I’ll take quieter any day.