4 Problems Solved By Better Roof Ventilation
Posted on: 10 August 2022
Even though most people naturally focus on the roof's ability to keep things out of their home, letting the right air in is also important. Roof ventilation is a key part of protecting the roof, the house, and your comfort.
Here are a few problems it helps solve.
1. Moisture and Condensation
Hot, moist air naturally rises through the home toward the attic. This is a normal function of breathing, activities in the house, and hot air flow. However, what happens if that hot, wet air becomes trapped under the roof? Condensation starts to take its toll.
Moisture is the enemy of your wood decking, the trusses supporting the roof, and the wood framing of house walls. It will eventually cause warping, leaks, mold, mildew, and rot.
2. Big Temperature Changes
As good ventilation moves hot air out of the attic space and lets cold air in, it regulates the temperature of this area. Both highs and lows are less extreme. If you want to use the floor space just below the roof, this is a key part of making it comfortable enough for regular use. However, even if you don't use this area, you'll feel the changes throughout the house.
3. Ice Dams
Do you live in a climate that gets freezing winters? If so, your roof has an additional risk: ice dams. Ice dams form when snow or ice melts in the center areas of the roof that are warmed up by hot air underneath the decking. As this water runs toward the eaves, though, cold roof sections cause it to freeze again. Ice forms and blocks more water from escaping.
The result could be serious damage to the shingles and sheathing as well as to the walls. The best way to prevent ice dams is to ensure more even temperatures throughout the roof. Good ventilation is key to this.
4. Energy Inefficiency
Finally, are your energy bills rising? If so, the roof could be contributing to the problem. Those fluctuating temperatures below the roof cascade throughout the house, causing most homeowners to compensate with more artificial heating and cooling efforts. And, of course, the more you must compensate, the less efficient your energy use is.
Where to Learn More
While most people don't pay much attention to roof ventilation, it clearly plays a big role in creating a safe and comfortable home for everyone. Learn more about the strengths and weaknesses of your particular roof ventilation system by meeting with a quality roofing contractor in your area today.
Reach out to a company like Meschke Construction, Inc to learn more.
Share