A whirlybird is a wind-driven roof vent that pulls hot, humid air out of the roof space. It reduces trapped heat and moisture. Sarking is a reflective or breathable membrane under the roof covering that sheds condensation and adds a weather layer. Both help a roof space manage heat and moisture.
Whirlybird and roof vent installation
We cut the opening in the roof, fit the vent base with a flashing that sits correctly under the tiles above and over the tiles below, and fix the vent. The flashing is the part that matters, since a badly sealed vent is a new leak. We seal it and test the spin.
Vent types
- Wind-driven whirlybirds. Turn with the breeze and need no power.
- Solar-powered vents. Run in the day without wind, using a small solar panel.
- Static vents. No moving parts, suitable for low-ventilation spots.
How many you need depends on the roof space volume and the other vents. We recommend a number after looking at the roof space.
Bathroom exhaust fans
An exhaust fan should vent outside, never into the roof space. Warm, wet air dumped in the roof space soaks the insulation and rots timber. We can connect a bathroom fan through a roof vent to the outside. A customer had us do this.
“Nathan did a great job of installing a roof vent and connecting to our bathroom exhaust fan.”
Sarking installation
Sarking is a flexible membrane laid under the tiles or metal sheets. It catches water that gets past the roof covering and sheds condensation to the gutter. Reflective foil types also cut radiant heat. Fitting sarking under an existing tile roof means lifting tiles, so it fits best with a major repair or a re-roof. On metal roofs it goes on before the sheets. Call us about your roof and we will say what is practical.
Is it condensation or a leak?
If the roof space or ceiling is damp on dry days, ventilation may be the answer. A leak follows the rain. See leak detection to tell them apart, and the guide to leaks and condensation.
Hot or damp roof space? Call 0430 545 669 or use the contact form. We come up, photograph the problem and put a price in writing.
Questions about whirlybirds, vents and sarking
How many whirlybirds does my house need?
It depends on the roof space size, pitch and existing vents. We look at the roof space and recommend a number.
Do whirlybirds cause leaks?
A properly flashed and sealed vent does not. Leaks come from poor installation, so choose a roofer who seals the flashing and checks it.
Will a vent cool the house?
It lowers heat build-up in the roof space. Insulation does more for room temperature. The two work together.
Can sarking be added to an old roof?
On tile roofs it needs the tiles lifted, so it suits a re-roof or large repair. Ask us about your roof and we will tell you what is practical.