Ventilation

Passive ventilation uses gravity to provide fresh air circulation inside a building with zero ongoing cost and maintenance. Passive ventilation systems may provide enough ventilation on their own, or they may be combined with active systems to provide more air turns. Overhangs, open walls, endwall panels and ridge vents are sources of passive ventilation.

Air intake is best achieved under the fabric structure overhang. This keeps fresh air flowing in at the occupied level of the structure and provides ventilation the entire length of the building. The lighter, cooler air flows in through the overhangs; as the air heats up it rises and is exhausted out the ridge vents.

There are several fabric building ventilation options for passive exhaust systems. An open ridge vent lets warm, humid air push out the peak unrestricted. Or incorporate a one-piece exhaust vent to block rain, snow and birds from entering through the ventilation system. Aluminum ARV vents are a cost-effective, attractive way to provide peak exhaustion.

Endwall panels are another maintenance-free way to ventilate a building. Mesh or aluminum panels are available in any size and several colors to blend in with the building.

Fans, louvers and exhaust vents are more “hands-on” ways to create fabric building ventilation. Although these options require more up-front cost and maintenance than a passive ventilation system, they may provide the right amount of air for your application.

Fans and louvers are available in several colors and sizes. Talk to your building consultant for the most accurate information about fabric building ventilation options for your building.