Discussions

I am planning to get my roof shingles replaced this fall and was hoping for some feedback from homeowners who used ridge venting on their roof instead of the other alternatives? How well did the ridge venting work? Did you notice any problems with increased insects getting into the attic? Does snow cover the ridge vents and creates a problem of no ventilation? Does your hydro or natural gas bill go up in the winter because your attic could be more cooler? Any other issues or comments would be greatly appreciated.

There are several factors the op is asking about.  
 
Attic ventilation is important for the life of shingles. If there is any inadequate ventilation the attic temp will be so excessive the shingles life will be shortened.  
 
There are basically three methods to achieve ventilation. Regular vents installed within a foot of peak. Rule of thumb is one for every 300 square feet. Turbines or peak ventilation. I observed that preference for a specific style is whim of local lumber yard and contractor.  
 
The negative of turbines is they often have poor bearings so squeaking is heard after a few years. In older houses with poor vapour barrier they are blamed for sucking warm air out of house and with it extra moisture.  
 
Vents poorly installed can be unsightly and may leak. Depending on annual snowfall and wind direction they can be buried in a deep snow year.  
 
Peak ventilation is very popular Altona Winkler area. Most common vent system. Being at peak are seldom blocked by snow. There are several styles of peak ventilation. Some might be prone to allow insects. Not all would.  
 
In Weyburn area I was told Peak vents were prone to leak due to wind blowing rain or snow in. My observations was that the hole was cut too wide. Never had a call back on any peak ventilation I installed.  
 
In regards to heating etc. Ceiling vapour barrier is very critical. If air can flow from house interior to attic ventilation of attic is not an issue. I have stripped ceiling and sprayfoamed older house to stop airflow. If ceiling has good vapour barrier and R40 insulation the attic ventilation will NOT hurt your heat bill

Sorry I went into a rant.  
 
As my previous post indicates, I believe peak ventilation is my choice. The slot should not be more than two inches from peak on each side leaving a four inch opening. If you go wider there’s a possibility it could leak

Ridge vents are awsome if installed correctly. With typical vents they should be installed opposite to main wind direction  
 
example if u get wind from the west vents should be on the east of your roof to draw out moisture if they are installed on the east the wind will enter the vents and force moisture down.  
So ridge vents are great to take the guess work out as long as u have vented soffit on your over hang and if u have a gable roof make sure gable soffit is non vented.  
Hope this helps you note minimum R value is 50 not 40