One of the most important features of the exterior of your home is your roof which protects the interior from the elements. However, it is also one of the most overlooked components when it comes to keeping your home healthy. One of the best ways to avoid problems not only with your roof but with other parts of your home is through roof ventilation, according to the experts at RGB Construction.
What Is Roofing Ventilation?
Reputable roofing companies will tell you that roof ventilation consists of intake and exhaust vents that circulate the air to keep the interior of your home comfortable. Inadequate roofing ventilation can lead to extreme temperatures in your attic or at the top of your home which can damage roofing materials. In the summer, your attic can reach temperatures of 150 degrees or more. Reputable roofing companies explain that this can lead to significant problems throughout your home.
Moisture Formation
When your attic reaches 150 degrees or more, it can lead to the formation of condensation, the leading cause of mold and mildew growth. Even in the winter, excessive moisture can develop without proper roofing ventilation. In addition, condensation can lead to dampness in your attic as warm air condenses on the rafters. This could not only lead to damage of items stored in your attic, but to structural portions of your home, such as peeling paint.
Roofing Material Damage
When the temperatures at the top of your house reach high levels, damage can occur to the actual roofing materials. Moisture could cause roofing nails or metal venting duct straps to rust. If mold, mildew, algae or fungus begin to build up, they could cause irreparable damage to your roof. In addition, moisture can hasten the decay of your roof, shortening its lifespan. Poor ventilation can also cause ice dams which could damage your roof, walls, ceiling and insulation.
Indoor Temperature Problems
It stands to reason that if hot air builds up in your attic, it will eventually make its way into your living space. According to reputable roofing companies like RGB Construction, poor ventilation can lead to temperatures on your second floor being 10 degrees warmer than the first floor as hot air moves through the attic floor into your home. This can lead to increased energy bills and an HVAC system that is overworked.
Types Of Roofing Ventilation
There are two types of roofing ventilation. Natural ventilation, according to reputable roofing companies, consists of roof vents that use natural airflow that allows hot air to escape. Because hot air rises, it can lead to pressure in the attic, so if it is given a place to escape, cool air will replace the pressurized hot air. Natural ventilation may be vents, doors, windows, or other gaps. Mechanical ventilation requires a power source to move the air. If your roof is designed in such a way that natural ventilation is difficult, you may need to install attic fans or other mechanical devices to move air out of the top of your home.
Signs Of Poor Ventilation
There are a few telltale signs of poor ventilation in your home. These include:
- Air Conditioner Breakdowns – improper ventilation could be causing your air conditioner to overwork.
- Hot or Cold Spots in the House – if your home is not ventilated properly, it can lead to unequal temperatures from room to room.
- Icicles and Ice Dams – these form when the roof heats up, snow melts and running water freezes on the edge of the roof.
- Leaks, Mold and Mildew – a poorly ventilated roof leads to moisture, according to reputable roofing companies, and this can lead to mold and mildew growth.
- Pest Invasions – if your roof is damaged, it can lead to openings where pests like squirrels and other rodents can get inside.
Types Of Natural Ventilation
There are several types of vents that are considered natural ventilation. Ridge vents are installed at the intersection of the roof under the shingles. Wind turbines are attached to the outside of the roof and are designed to catch the wind in its turbines, cycling the hot air out and the cold air in. Box vents are also installed on the outside of the roof and operate like other vents. However, they are more noticeable than other types of vents as you need more of them. Edge intake vents are installed under soffits or shingles near the drip edge to cycle cool air through the home. Other types of natural ventilation, according to reputable roofing companies, are windows and doors that can be opened to encourage air movement.
Why You May Need A Power Ventilator
If your home does not get much natural wind exposure, a power ventilator may be necessary. This is also true of roofing styles that do not allow for easy natural ventilation. Electric roof vents run continuously to be sure the attic is ventilated properly to avoid damage to your roof and the interior of your home.
Benefits Of Proper Ventilation
Proper roof ventilation is critical to the health of your home. By properly ventilating your attic, you can save money on energy costs and keep your home healthier as well as more comfortable. Proper ventilation, according to reputable roofing companies, can also prolong the life of your roof. Keep in mind that shingles are exposed to heat from the outside and if they are also staying hot from the inside, they could prematurely age. Proper roof ventilation keeps your home at a consistent temperature as well. In fact, proper ventilation could actually extend the life of your HVAC unit as well as your roof.
There is no question about the importance of proper ventilation for your roof in order to extend its life as well as protecting your home as much as possible. Contact RGB Construction to arrange for a no-obligation inspection to determine if your roof is properly ventilated. You can schedule an appointment by filling out the easy online form or giving them a call today.
