The Importance of Roof and Attic Ventilation
Whether it is mold, rotting wood, or ice dams, damage can be done to your roof if there is improper ventilation. Roof ventilation utilizes exhaust vents to ensure moisture and humidity are removed from the roof with cold, dry air. Frequently, people overlook the importance of roof ventilation and don't invest in proper equipment or the right amount of vents to protect their homes adequately. The roof and attic ventilation's overall purpose is to keep the same temperature between the air above the roof and outside consistent. Attic and roof ventilation is an integral part of your home when it is in conjunction with insulation and air sealing. Let's jump into some of the main reasons why it is essential to have proper roof ventilation.
1. Reduces moisture
No matter where you live if your roof does not have proper ventilation, it will not protect your roof sufficiently. Whether it is extreme heat or bitterly cold temperatures, ventilation is essential in preventing moisture. Ventilation removes water vapor from your home's structure before it has the time to create mold or mildew.
By having adequate ventilation in your roof and attic in the winter, you can protect your home from ice damming. In the winter, often, homeowners turn their heat on because of the frigid temperatures, and because heat rises, water can create an ice dam as the snow and ice begin to melt and refreeze. Ice dams create water buildups that can lead to water seeping into holes in the roof, and once frozen again, the water will expand and develop many complications to your roof. If you ever notice huge icicles forming off your roof, it may be an indication that you have ice dams forming.
In the summer, as the heat begins to rise, attics and roofs tend to overheat. As the hot air begins to grow, it will condense, leading to rotting wood, mold, or moss in your roof and attic. The summer months can create a lot of damage to your home if you do not take the proper precautions. Roof and attic ventilation is a critical component in ensuring your home is safe from the heat and humidity that the summer brings.
2. Extends the life of your roof
Proper roof ventilation can increase the durability of the material that makes up your roof. The ability to keep moisture out and circulate the temperatures in your attic and roof, roof, and attic ventilation can help decrease the possibility of damage to your roof. Extreme heat or cold can damage, crack, warp, and age your shingles. As mentioned above, temperature plays a significant role in the life of your roof. If your roof is not properly ventilated, it can decrease its life expectancy.
3. Reduces energy costs
A properly vented roof helps reduce your air conditioner's workload because of its ability to allow heat to escape through the vents. When your attic is overheated, it heats the rest of your home, and when your home is too hot, people tend to increase the air conditioning. However, if proper vents are put in place, you can decrease your utility bill because your HVAC system won't work as hard to eliminate the heat.
4. Keeps uniform temperatures
When your roof is adequately ventilated, it helps keep your home at a more consistent and comfortable temperature all year round. The ventilation allows the house to stay away from extreme temperatures during the different seasons.
Overall, roof and attic ventilation is an essential part of your home. If your roof is not vented correctly, it can create long-term problems down the road. Improper ventilation can end up costing you more damage in the long run. If you are experiencing extreme heat changes, an overly heated attic, or notice there are no vents on your roof, it may be necessary to look into roof and attic ventilation. Contact us (502) 341-4415 today for a free inspection!