Don’t you want your roof to be sealed against the elements? Why would you want to leave any openings that could allow water through? Many people don’t understand roof ventilation and why it’s so essential to the health of your roof and home. Not every roofing contractor understands how to calculate proper roof ventilation, and many will assume that every house was built with a perfect ventilation system, but this is often not the case. We understand the importance of ventilation and how to address ventilation issues.
Roof ventilation circulates air through your roof and attic space, allowing fresh air in and stale air out. Proper ventilation helps regulate the temperature in your roof and attic, reducing energy costs, improving comfort, and extending the life of your roof. Heat and moisture cannot build up in a properly ventilated attic.
Several types of roof vents can be used. The most common are intake vents, fixed exhaust vents, power exhaust vents, undereave vents, and gable vents. The most important part of ventilation is not necessarily the type of vent, but the proper balance of inlet and outlet ventilation that allows airflow. When our roofing team inspects and assesses your roof, we will determine if we need to add new inlet or outlet vents, remove existing vents, or combine both.
If your attic space isn’t properly ventilated, many issues can develop. The biggest problem will be mold in your attic. If the air quality in your attic allows mold to grow, it will take hold quickly and will be difficult and expensive to remediate. Mold can cause significant health and air quality problems for your family and is a problem that cannot be ignored. If you suspect mold has been growing in your attic, you must get a professional out immediately.
Although less damaging to your health, other issues can be caused by improper roof ventilation. Ice dams are one of the biggest problems during the colder months. When the temperature on your roof warms in the winter sun and cools overnight, any standing water will freeze and form what is referred to as an ice dam. If an ice dam is allowed to sit on your roof, it will cause damage to the roof deck and, ultimately, premature roof failure. In the warmer months, the high temperatures in an improperly ventilated attic can also cause problems. When hot, stagnant air presses up against your roof from the attic, it can cause shingles to degrade prematurely.
If your attic is improperly ventilated, any warranty on your roofing materials may be voided.
A conditioned attic will have the insulation installed directly on the roof sheathing. This eliminates the need for ventilation because the design prevents condensation. If your attic is conditioned, ventilation is unnecessary because the air quality and temperature are controlled. If your attic is warmed or cooled by the HVAC system, that part of your home is considered conditioned. Applying insulation to the roof sheathing instead of the ceiling will make the attic space part of your conditioned home. If you aren’t sure whether your attic is conditioned, our roofing experts can let you know.
Roof ventilation should never be ignored. Many roofing contractors will not even consider ventilation as part of their inspection and estimate, and if this is the case, you need to make sure you find a contractor who will. Here at Anderson Roofing, roof ventilation is one of our top priorities to keep your home safe and healthy.
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