Ventilation education takes center stage

By Jesse Sanchez. 

How Gibraltar Building Accessories and AirVent are helping contractors turn ventilation into a core part of roof system planning. 

Ventilation does not always command attention in roofing discussions but Gibraltar Building Accessories is working to bring it to the forefront. During this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Karen Edwards spoke with Justin Ache about how education and practical tools are helping contractors approach ventilation with greater confidence and consistency. 

Justin outlined the scope of Gibraltar’s portfolio and its role in supporting the roofing industry across multiple categories. “If it goes in or on your house, in your roof made out of metal or it’s ventilating, we probably make it or do it,” he said, describing a broad mix of products and services designed to support distributors contractors and retailers. His work centers on sales enablement digital resources and educational initiatives that help roofing professionals communicate value more clearly. 

That educational focus becomes especially critical when the conversation turns to ventilation. Justin noted that while installation skills are often strong, airflow planning can be overlooked. “You can install the best shingles in the world, but if your attic can’t breathe, that roof’s going to fail,” he explained. The challenge is not a lack of effort but a lack of understanding how balanced intake and exhaust influence warranties, energy efficiency and long-term performance. 

To close that gap AirVent has expanded its contractor education efforts, including the Ask the Expert seminar series led by Paul Scelsi. The sessions travel nationwide during slower seasons and emphasize practical guidance contractors can apply immediately. Justin said the goal is to remove intimidation from ventilation planning and make it part of everyday roofing conversations. 

Problems tied to poor ventilation often surface only after damage appears. Justin pointed to real-world examples where mismatched vent types cancel each other out, or intake becomes blocked. “Everyone really doesn’t care about ventilation until the ice dams and curled shingles,” he said, explaining how those failures can lead to moisture issues, higher energy costs and repeat service calls. 

Technology is helping make planning easier. AirVent’s mobile-friendly calculator allows contractors to estimate net free area requirements using attic size and roof characteristics directly at the jobsite. While code minimums often allow a 300-to-one ratio, Justin explained that AirVent recommends a 150-to-one approach to improve airflow and extend roof life. 

Across videos, seminars, calculators and live demonstrations, the message remains consistent. Education helps contractors move beyond surface-level installation and toward presenting a complete roof system that protects the entire home. 

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast to learn more about ventilation education tools and contractor resources from Gibraltar Building Accessories and AirVent!