How to Install Strip Soffit Vents

Mark the location in the soffit for the continuous strip vent. Snap two chalk lines 2 inches apart at 2 to 4 inches from the edge of the soffit.

Cut out the soffit, using a circular saw. Set the blade high so it will just cut through the soffit. Do not make deep cuts. Use a hand saber saw to make the end cuts of the marked area.

Attach the vent to the soffit. Use half-inch screws and a drill and space the screws roughly 12 to 16 inches apart.

Go into the attic and pull any attic insulation away from the new vent track. Nail in one-by-fours with a hammer between the rafters as needed to keep the insulation from falling back into the vent path. Do not leave loose insulation lying near the vent, since it will eventually settle back over the vent and block it, defeating the purpose of installing it.

Create an air flow path for the air from the vent to flow through. Install baffles between the rafters on the underside of the roof decking.

Go to the roof's ridge and remove the existing ridge cap's overlapping shingles and felt. Snap chalk lines 4 inches down from the peak, on each side of the ridge. Saw and remove the roof decking along the chalk lines, using a reciprocating saw. Cut the decking with the blade pointed straight down (plumb cut).

Snap two more chalk lines on each side of the opening to match the width of the new ridge vent you will install. Install the new ridge vent according the manufacturer's instructions.