A Guide to Roofing Ventilation

Proper ventilation is one of the critical components of your roofing system. Without proper ventilation, your home’s energy efficiency will be compromised and you’ll also be at risk of mildew and mold growth along with other issues. Today, your local roofing contractor shares a quick guide on what you need to know about roof ventilation.

Understanding Roof Ventilation

If the attic is not properly insulated and ventilated, warm air can will get trapped there, overheating the roof deck and ceiling. Prolonged exposure to heat can shorten the lifespan of your roofing shingles and other roofing components. 

Additionally, the heat from the attic will make its way into your living space, causing your HVAC system to work overtime to compensate. This increases energy costs. During winter, warm, moist air from your living space will move into the attic, forming a condensation that can damage wooden components in roofs and attics, leading to mold growth.

How to Find Out If You Have Inadequate Roof Ventilation

Dampening is one of the most common signs of condensation. This is mainly due to poor ventilation. Your roofing contractor will likely suggest a roof inspection to check for signs of water damage. Here are a few things to look for during the inspection:

1. Damp insulation. Remember that insulation has to be fluffy and dry to be effective. Once it gets wet, it immediately loses its insulating ability.
2. Winter ice dams. Ice dams appear when your roof snow melts, runs down and freezes at your eaves or gutters. These ice dams are likely to expand, damaging your layers while prompting leaks.
3. Frost on beams.  Frost in the attic is a sign that moist air is getting trapped in the area. This requires immediate action, so call for an experienced roofing restoration expert to address the matter.

Roof Ventilation Options

You have a few options when it comes to ventilation. Your roofing contractor will walk you through these choices so you can choose the right system for your needs:

1. Box vents. These are low-profile boxes placed at the top of your roof to vent the hot air out of your attic.
2. Gable vents. These are usually installed while a property is built. They serve both a functional and aesthetic purpose.
3. Power vents. These require electricity to function and are controlled by a thermometer and a humidistat. There are also solar-powered versions.

You can count on Quality One Roofing Inc. for high-quality residential roofing solutions, including roof repair and replacement. Our certified team is committed to delivering industry-leading products and outstanding workmanship to ensure the comfort and satisfaction of our customers. 

To set up an appointment, call us at (610) 652-4491 for Malvern, PA, or (215) 493-4550 for Newton, PA. You may also fill out our contact form.