For an attic space with only gable vents, what is the required vent area per floor area in square feet?

In an attic space with only gable vents, the typical requirement is to provide a certain amount of vent area to ensure proper ventilation. This is important because adequate ventilation helps to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and other structural issues, as well as reduce the risk of heat accumulation in the attic.

The general rule of thumb for venting an attic is to have 1 square foot of vent area for every 150 square feet of attic floor area. Hence, if you're assessing an attic with only gable vents and factors such as heat and moisture control are concerned, this calculated ratio becomes crucial. Since the question asks for vent area specifically linked to a requirement that correlates with common practice, the correct answer is 150 square feet per floor area.

This standard aligns with ventilation guidelines that have been set to optimize airflow and mitigate conditions that can lead to damage or inefficiencies in the home. Factors that can influence these requirements include the climate, structure type, and whether any additional forms of ventilation (such as soffit vents) are present, none of which detracts from the base figure of 150 square feet as a starting point.