Roofing & Ventilation

Effective roof ventilation is essential for maintaining a healthy, long-lasting building envelope. Our roofing & ventilation products help regulate airflow in roof spaces, preventing moisture build-up, condensation damage, and premature degradation of structural timbers. Whether you're working on a new build or retrofitting an older property, proper ventilation protects against costly repairs while improving energy efficiency and indoor air quality throughout the year.

Our Roof Ventilation Solutions

McMahons stocks a comprehensive selection of ventilation components designed for pitched roofs, flat roofs, and attic spaces across residential and commercial projects.

  • Our Chimneys Cowls, Pots & Accessories range covers SHL anti-downdraught and anti-bird cowls, stainless steel flue liner kits, aluminium EPDM flashing units, and chimney balloons for sealing unused flues.
  • Our Corrugated Sheets range includes Onduline bitumen corrugated sheets and Marvec clear PVC panels with matching ridge caps, fixings, and accessories for sheds, outbuildings, and carport roofing.
  • Our Fascia & Soffit range features Freefoam uPVC ogee fascia boards in 175mm and 225mm widths with hollow soffit boards in 300mm, available in black and white with vent strip accessories for eaves ventilation.
  • Our Lead Roll & Flashing range includes milled lead rolls (BS EN 12588) in Code 4 across multiple widths from 150mm to 600mm in 6m lengths, Ikoflash self-adhesive flashing, Leadax lead-free flashing rolls, and patination oil.
  • Our Ridge Tiles range covers concrete ridge tiles in 90, 120, and 135 degree angles, half-round concrete ridge tiles in four colours (black, turf brown, new brown, grey), Dura universal clay ridge tiles, ridge cap profiles, and ventilated dry ridge roll systems.
  • Our Roofing Felt range stocks IKO breathable membranes (Rubershield Pro Extra 160g and Eco Extra 120g), Tyvek Supro breathable membrane, and IKO Pro HP cold-applied felt adhesive for flat and pitched roof applications.
  • Our Roofing Slates range includes concrete flat slate tiles, bullnose slate tiles, M-profile tiles, pantiles, and Condron pantiles across multiple colours including black, turf brown, and new brown, all in 420x330mm format.
  • Our Roofing Trims range covers PVC cloaking profiles (65mm and 95mm), PVC window boards (175mm and 225mm), and associated roofline trim profiles for finishing roofline and eaves details.
  • Our Ventilation range covers 55 products including tile vents (Glidevale G5 universal and Morrissey tile-specific), Klober slate vents, soffit vent strips, round soffit vents, flexible ducting, eaves protector trays, and ventilated ridge rolls.

For a complete roofing project, browse our wider Building Materials range, including Insulation Materials that work alongside ventilation to maximise thermal performance.

Selecting the right ventilation depends on roof pitch, covering material, and the total roof area requiring airflow. Irish Building Regulations typically require 10,000mm² of free air per metre run at both eaves and ridge level, our team can help you calculate exact requirements for compliance and optimal performance.

Why Choose McMahons for Roof Ventilation?

With nearly two centuries of experience supplying Irish builders, McMahons understands the particular challenges of our climate. Our expert staff can advise on condensation control strategies specific to your project, ensuring you get the right specification first time. Ready to discuss your ventilation requirements? Get in touch with our team for tailored guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions


1. Are roof windows energy-efficient?

Yes. Most modern roof windows feature double or triple glazing with insulated frames designed to reduce heat loss and improve energy performance.

2. Can I install a roof window on a flat roof?

Absolutely. Flat roof windows and domes are specifically designed for low-pitch or flat surfaces and provide exceptional daylight in single-storey extensions.

3. Do I need planning permission for roof windows?

In most cases, roof windows fall under permitted development. However, properties in conservation areas or listed buildings may require permission.

4. Are roof windows suitable for bathrooms or kitchens?

Yes. Many roof windows feature moisture-resistant frames and ventilation settings that make them ideal for humid environments.

5. How do I choose the right size?

Window size depends on roof pitch, room dimensions, and desired light levels. Larger windows bring in more natural light. Our team can help you select the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions


1. Why is roof ventilation important?

Proper roof ventilation helps prevent condensation, mould growth, and timber decay by allowing moisture and warm air to escape from the roof space.

2. What roofing materials are best for long-term durability?

Clay tiles, concrete tiles, and high-quality synthetic slates are popular for longevity and excellent weather resistance.

3. Do I need a membrane under my roof tiles?

Yes. Breathable roofing membranes provide an additional layer of protection against moisture, dust, and wind-driven rain.

4. How do tile vents work?

Tile vents replace standard roof tiles and allow air to circulate through the roof void or connect to extractor fans for improved ventilation.

5. Can roofing ventilation reduce energy bills?

Good ventilation helps regulate temperature in the roof space, reducing heat build-up in summer and helping insulation perform more effectively in winter.