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We're sure roof ventilation isn't on the mind of most people. Unless you're a roofing contractor or work for a residential roofing company, roofing ventilation is an afterthought.
However, roof ventilation does play an essential role in many aspects of your day-to-day life at home.
When you have the right amount of ventilation in your attic, it will have a positive effect on the lifespan of your roof, and the well-being of your family, how much you pay for energy, and the future costs of home repairs.
The article below will discuss why roof ventilation is important and how it keeps your roof intact.
Roof ventilation works by allowing cooler low-pressure air at the roof's edge to usher the hot air through exhaust vents.
Proper roof ventilation becomes a balancing act because you have to have the right amount of intake and exhaust vents.
Intake vents are along the edge of your roof, and exhaust vents at the top of your roof. If there are too many exhaust vents compared to your intake vents, your system won't work correctly because some exhaust vents will act as intake vents and then short circuit the system.
A 50/50 system is typically what you should aim for, but you still need to be sure the exhaust is adequate for your attic.
Using an experienced roofing contractor will ensure that you have the correct ratio of exhaust vents to intake vents.
Another common mistake is not having enough vents installed in general.
Your intake vents are essential in your roofing ventilation system because they will help move hot air out, keeping the proper airflow.
Intake vents are often overlooked, so be sure you have enough.
Inadequate roof ventilation will cause various problems for your roof and attic space that will exhibit themselves in different ways.
To be sure your ventilation system is working properly, you should look out for these issues:
A rippled or wavy appearance to the roofline and shingles of your home caused by the warping of moisture-damaged decking underneath.
Rust and corrosion on metal materials in your attic. The rust could appear on nail heads, electrical boxes, light fixtures, and HVAC components.
Dampness, water stains, or frost on the attic side of your roof sheathing.
Evidence of deterioration and decay of the roof’s structural supports.
An increase in allergy symptoms or respiratory illnesses among you or your family members. This may be related to the spread of fungi spores through your indoor air supply from mold growth in your attic.
An uptick in your household heating and cooling bills. This is common if your attic insulation gets wet and loses its effectiveness.
Frequent HVAC repairs as heating and cooling equipment under a heavier workload become prone to breakdowns or even premature failure.
A noticeable buildup of ice along the edge of your roof during the winter months
When you check for these signs in your roof or attic, always be safe.
Instead of climbing up onto your roof, take a walk around the outside of your roof on the ground and use binoculars to exam your roof.
If you inspect your attic, make sure it is well lit, you are wearing protective gear, and you have a clear walking path.
Ensuring an adequate airflow in your attic is vital for the protection, safety, and lifespan of your roofing system.
A properly vented attic keeps it cooler in the summer because it will allow the hot air to escape and drier in the winter.
When it's hot outside, and you have a hot attic, you need to keep the buildup of heat from occurring in your attic to reduce energy consumption and lower the risk of ice dams forming on your roof.
If your roof is overheated or moisture-filled, it can come with various problems, everything from mold to curled shingles.
There are several benefits of proper attic ventilation.
First, it removes moisture from your attic.
Proper airflow will dry out your attic all year, preventing condensation from forming and reducing your risk of things like mold growth and wood rot.
It also balances snow accumulation. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, your attic ventilation can prevent heat from building up at the dams, preventing severe damage to your roof and your home.
This will allow the snow to accumulate in an even sheet on your roof.
Proper ventilation will keep your home much cooler in the summer.
When you control heat buildups in your attic, you are also keeping the rest of your home cooler.
Reducing your attic temperature keeps your air conditioner from running all the time, reduces your energy costs, and makes your home more comfortable to live in.
Proper attic ventilation will also prolong the life of your roof.
If the heat gets trapped in your attic, it will put pressure on your shingles from the inside out.
Proper ventilation prevents issues with asphalt shingles from occurring, like early deterioration.
Water leaks are also common in homes that aren't properly ventilated.
In the most extreme cases, an unventilated attic can gather enough condensation to soak through your insulation and cause a leak in the ceiling below.
Wet insulation can be ineffective and lead to issues like mold and mildew.
When your attic is effectively ventilated, it will help your roof and your home all year round.
Now that we understand the importance of roof ventilation and the effect it can have on your roof.
Instead of dealing with the aftermath of a poorly ventilated roof, you should be proactive and be sure your system is adequate.
You don't want to wake up one day and need a new roof.
As a locally owned and operated roofing company, TK Roofing knows how the Ohio weather can cause problems for your roof and your ventilation system.
Whether it's high winds, heavy rains, and snowfalls, or the summer heat, countless things can damage your roof.
If you'd like to make sure you have a fully functional ventilation system, the certified roofers with TK Roofing can help.
TK Roofing provides a no-contact, no-cost roof inspection that will give you a detailed breakdown of the health of your roof, including your ventilation system.
With the most extended warranties in the industry, their certified roofers will help you with all of your roof repair needs.
Schedule your Free Estimate with our Roof Repair Contractors today!