Installing a new ridge vent on roof

[copasetic_T]

So then what you're telling me is that we shouldn't be concerned with not having any ventilation at all, regardless? The type of insulation we have and the shape it's in is what's important? From our inspection we learned that the insulation is an above-average R-value (don't recall the number), and that evidence of moisture exists in the attic spaces.

That said, our main concern is the room over the garage, with a much higher temp than the rest of the house. The garage itself stays relatively cool.

I should mention that we live in a very hot area of California - Lancaster/Palmdale is the next town over and is desert. 100 degree days in summer is average.

I should also mention again that I know nothing about any of this stuff, am learning as I go - in case that wasn't already obvious enough. I've got roofers telling me that ventilation should help, two of them mentioned dormers, one mentioned the O'Hagin's that K'ledgeBuilder mentioned, but he never even got up on the roof to inspect it before telling me I needed a new roof. So... Looking for direction so that we a) don't get ripped off and b) make the best decision possible to help us with the hot room.

Thanks.

[copasetic_T]

Originally Posted by copasetic_T

and that evidence of moisture exists in the attic spaces.

That should read "no evidence of moisture..."

[beckycat]

We are debating whether or not to install a ridge vent. Our roof is probably 12 years old and I don't know if the shingles being older would be an issue. We are having an issue with cooling our upstairs. We had an HVAC guy come out today to address the issue with the duct work and unit. He suggested to put a mini split unit upstairs which is fine. I want to know if we don't have proper ventilation, will this unit have to run longer to cool the upstairs? I did read, if the insulation is done properly, it should be enough to keep the heat out.

I'm just not sure what to do. We have a gable roof and the contractor said the gable vents are fake. We do have soffit vent around the house but I have no clue if we have enough. The contractor also noticed the insulation in the attic is covering the soffit.