National Average Improvement and Repair Cost
Pro
DIY
Hours:
5
9
Cost:
$ 422
$ 158
Would you do this project? According to our survey, 36% of respondents preferred DIY compared to hiring a pro.
The average price to Install a Gable Vent noted above is cost data to compare a contractor’s estimate with doing it yourself.
How much does it cost to install attic gable vents? Attic ventilation helps to eliminate heat and moisture in a home. The contractor cost to install 2 attic gable vents is $422 vs. the do-it-yourself cost of $158.
Ventilation in an attic is important and it’s especially important in warm weather months to keep air circulating as protection against excessive heat and moisture build-up. In winter, too, the warm heated air from the house can accumulate and condense on the sheathing and framing in the attic causing the formation of mold and dry rot. Any time of year, a gable vent is the solution because it circulates air and removes excess hot air and wetness. Baffles on the vents resist water, and screens deter squirrels and other critters from becoming unwanted attic residents. Gable vents come in a variety of colors to match exterior siding and trim and in a wide selection of shapes and sizes, making them nice architectural features as well as practical solution for ventilation.
To install 2 new gable vents, a carpenter will charge $422 which includes the vent and labor. If you do it yourself, you can buy and install the vent for $158 pocketing a 63 percent saving. You’ll need basic carpentry skills to cut into the siding and permanently fasten the unit to the siding. The unit has predrilled flanges for nailing and leveling lines for alignment. A snap-on ring hides the rough edges of the siding and conveniently acts as a template for cutting the hole for the opening.
Before you decide to install it yourself, consider whether it will be easy to get at the part of the attic where you plan to install the vent, as well as how high the ladder work is required on the outside. If access is difficult, this might be a job to hire out to someone who has the equipment and agility while you watch from the sidelines.
SF Gate has instructions to Install Gable Vents in an Attic.
No matter who does the work plan the job for the spring or fall when attic temperatures are temperate. Don’t schedule the job in the summer months, when it’s too hot to work in a hot confined area.
The bottom line: compare the price of a contractor’s bid to install a gable vent with what it costs to do it yourself and make your decision.
