A Guide to Roofing Ventilation

Most experts say that ventilation is one of the first things you must prioritize when owning a home. If not, you’ll have to deal with sweltering heat, mildew and even inappropriate odors lingering for days that may pose hazards to your health. Luckily, there are ways that you can address this. If you still aren’t aware of the basics of roofing ventilation, your local roof install experts will delve into this subject here. 

The Importance of Roof Ventilation

Warm air gets trapped in your attic if it isn’t properly insulated or ventilated, overheating the roof decking and your ceilings. Extended exposure to heat can reduce the life of shingles and other roofing components. The heat from the attic can also transfer to your interior, making your HVAC work harder. As a result, your energy costs go up. 

On the other hand, gutter cleaning pros say warm, moist air from your home gets into the attic during winter, causing condensation to form. As mentioned, moisture can damage the wooden components of your roof and loft and lead to mold and mildew growth.

How to Find Out If You Have Inadequate Roof Ventilation

Wet insulation is a common sign of condensation in your attic, resulting from poor ventilation. Check your attic or the underside of your roof for signs of water damage. If you see water stains, mildew, or mold, you probably need more efficient roof ventilation.

Choosing Roofing Ventilation Items

  1. Ridge Venting. The most common application on newly installed shingled roofs today is the ridge-vent. It is an excellent solution as long as you have proper intake venting, usually found at the eaves edge of your home or building.
  2. Power Vents. Most typically, an electrically powered fan in your attic. Some of the more sophisticated ones have automatic controls for humidity and temperature. An ideal solution for most hip roofs and the like. Some new “solar-powered” fans have hit the market in recent years when there is some solar energy they are on when not they do nothing.
  3. Turbine Vents. Essentially a tiny pipe over a hole in your roof deck with blades inside that spin with the wind. While the wind is blowing, these can drastically increase airflow—only negative, no wind, no movement.

We Look Forward to Hearing From You!

Whether you need a roof repair or replacement, gutter installation, new siding, or exterior painting in Williamsburg, VA, M&A Exterior Home Improvement has you covered. We provide affordable financing options and a one-year labor warranty. Call (757) 210-9677 or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation and receive a free estimate.