Can I Install Rafter Vents After Insulation Is Done?

Locate the soffit vents on your roof. They are air intake vents placed on the underside of the eaves. Purchase a rafter vent for each soffit vent in your roof. Rafter vents come in 4-foot lengths and different widths. Using a measuring tape, measure the space between the rafters to get the correct rafter vent width.

Suit up before you remove the insulation and install the rafter vents. Handling insulation can irritate your lungs and skin. Wear protective clothing, such as long pants, long sleeves and gloves. Put on goggles and a dust mask.

Remove insulation that is blocking soffit air flow or covering the rafter space where you want to install the rafter vents. Using a utility knife, cut the tape on batt insulation and remove the staples. Remove loose insulation from the work area. Work carefully so you don't compress or damage the insulation.

Install the rafter vents. Rafter vents ensure that the outside air from the soffit vents has clear channels into the attic space. Using a staple gun, staple the rafter vents directly to the roof decking at the point where the attic ceiling meets the attic floor. Line up each rafter vent with a soffit vent.