What is Xtractor Vent®? Xtractor Vent is Benjamin Obdyke’s externally baffled, shingle over ridge vent specially designed to extract heat and moisture out of the attic. Xtractor Vent® is available in four versions: XLP, XLP Turbo, X18, and X18 Xtra. Aren’t all ridge vents the same – Why should I use Xtractor Vent? Xtractor Vent has some unique qualities over the competition such as the drain holes every 4” which prevents water build up. Xtractor Vent also has an integrated end plug system that helps save material. Another benefit is the embossed nail line which assures proper nail placement and prevents damaging of the internal baffle. Finally, not all externally baffled products have both an internal and external baffle system – make sure the product you use has both systems and meets the shingle warranty requirements. What is the difference between Xtractor Vent XLP, XLP Turbo, X18 and X18 Xtra? Xtractor Vent XLP is a low profile (5/8”) sectional ridge vent that is designed for installation with a nail gun. Xtractor Vent XLP Turbo is a low profile (5/8”) rolled ridge vent. Xtractor Vent X18 does not have a low profile design. It has a higher profile (13/16”) that allows for a greater net free area (18 square inches of NFA per linear foot). Xtractor Vent X18 Xtra is similar to Xtractor Vent X18, but has a filter for extra protection against weather infiltration. What is the Net Free Area (NFA) for Xtractor Vent? Xtractor Vent X18 and X18 Xtra have 18 inches per linear foot, the maximum ventilation available. Xtractor Vent XLP and XLP Turbo have 12.75 inches per linear foot. Does Xtractor Vent require separate end plugs? No. Xtractor Vent contains integrated end plugs. Additionally, end plugs are located every 12” or every 6” in XLP Turbo to allow for less scrap when splicing. How do the sections fit together? There are male and female connections on each piece that fit together. The connections also assist in alignment and protect the seams from leaks. Can Xtractor Vent be used without soffit ventilation? No. A balanced system is necessary to achieve proper ventilation. The use of a ridge vent without equal or greater soffit vent could cause the ridge to act as an intake rather than an exhaust vent. Can Xtractor Vent be used with gable vents? No. Never combine ridge vents with gable vents. Air will move from the gable to the ridge and the remainder of the attic will not be effectively vented; therefore leaving hot, moist air to cling to the underside of the sheathing. This could create ice damming. When installing a ridge vent, be sure to also install soffit vents and block off the interior of the gables; using them for aesthetic value only. What’s the highest pitch roof you can use Xtractor Vent for? All Xtractor Vent products are approved for up to a 16/12 pitch roof. Why is there an external baffle? The external baffle prevents rain, snow and insect infiltration. What are the “s” shaped curves on the underneath of Xtractor Vent? In addition to the exterior baffle, Xtractor Vent contains a sine wave (“s” shaped) internal weather baffle to prevent rain and snow infiltration. The sine waves also provide superior support in the nail line area for hand or nail gunning. Does Xtractor Vent come with nails? Yes. Each carton of Xtractor Vent includes the recommended nails for the application. |