Snow Infiltration Tests on the Shinglevent II Ridge Vent Configuration

Abstract

The present study addresses the performance of the ridge vent Shinglevent II, a product of Air Vent Inc., in regard to the possible entry of snow into the attic space under strong wind conditions. The Shinglevent II configuration made available by Air Vent Inc. was tested for snow infiltration. To simulate field conditions as closely as possible, actual natural dry snow was used. The tests were conducted during winter using the open circuit mode of operation of the St. Anthony Falls Laboratory boundary layer wind tunnel. Tests 'have been carried out to date at a wind approach angle of 0 degrees (wind direction perpendicular to the roof ridge). The model was constructed in three pieces (a central piece and two angle pieces) so that, by omitting the two angle pieces, it can be fitted in the tunnel in a rotated 45 degree position for additional testing with 45 degree approach winds.