I have inspected a couple A-frame homes lately where there was no soffit ventilation and/or insulation was placed into the rafter area preventing proper ventilation.
Below is an A-frame attic I inspected today, gable vents were present and what was presumed to be soffit vents as well, but cannot be sure if the soffit vents are actually functionable or cut in, no ridge vent.
Dark staining and signs of condensation was present on the sheathing, so I know it is inadequately ventilated. I’m just trying to understand this better for myself.
Should an A-frame have ventilation from the eave to the ridge or attic area like any other typical home? I would think the shingles lifespan would be far less if not.
The home was originally a wood sided home but now has vinyl, including vinyl soffit with what appears to be intake vents but I’m not 100% sure whats behind the vinyl soffit. I am familiar with the baffles and that is going to be my recommendation once I confirm how an A-frame home is supposed to be ventilated;)
Not seeing the whole visual of the roof line, my thoughts are there should be (have been) a ridge vent installed. The gable vents are pretty much useless without other means to help circulate the air. The soffit vents, based on the pictures are not worth squat.
Moisture will probably build up in the winter months with any heat resonating from the chimney stack and warming cold air in the attic causing condensation. At least an electric attic vent fan should be installed for better circulation, but I would leave that to a second opinion.
As you and @tglaze mentioned, lack of adequate ventilation can cause problems. I would elevate this. There is no intake, no out-take, only cross ventilation which may not be enough.
