The concept of ventilation is pretty basic in itself; the airflow of a system through intake and exhaust. Simple, right? Unfortunately, not all roofers will make sure that your new roof is properly vented, causing the roofing issues and even failure before life expectancy ratings are reached.
Roofing ventilation only happens 1 or 2 ways; either through a mechanical options or natural air flow. Mechanical options take place through the use of attic fans or other forms of technology that generate air flow as needed. Natural venting is just that, a method of allowing air to flow freely though a space by providing proper intake and outflow options.
Creating a method for air to flow naturally though the space is always a preferred option. With proper venting under the eave through soffit vents and then exit through a roof vent that is adequate for the square footage will provide all that is needed for the venting process.
Let’s take a look at what causes issues of improperly vented roofing systems:
Winter Roof
Ever heard the term Ice Damming? This occurs when heat from inside your attic combines with heat from the sun to melt snow and ice on a warm roof. When the resulting water runs to the edge of the roof, it begins to refreeze. As the ice and water build up at the edges of your roof, it can back up behind/underneath the roofing materials, causing damage to the whole roof system, the attic and even inside the walls of the home.
With proper ventilation, warm air escapes before it has a chance to melt the snow and ice on the roof. A well vented roof in the winter still has snow on the roof, but not an icicle in sight.
Summer Roof
Temperatures on a roof can be nearly double the outside temperature. That’s Hot! A hot roof over a poorly vented attic translates into a very hot attic.
Poor ventilation or no ventilation in attics does not allow for an escape route for the heat that builds up. This buildup of heat can damage your shingles from the inside out. An evenly vented roof will allow the hot air to escape keeping your roof and attic cooler.
Benefits Of A Properly Vented Roof
Aside from the damage caused from excessive heat or ice-damming here are a few other benefits to a properly vented roofing system.
1. Reduce Energy Costs
As temperatures rise outside, it only makes sense that the attic temperature would rise if improper air flow is not provided. A properly vented roof allows heat to escape, thereby reducing the workload on your air conditioner. This one is simple: an air conditioner that’s running less means a lower electric bill.
2. Reduces Indoor Temperature Variance
10 degrees warmer upstairs than downstairs? If you experience this, proper ventilation could be the answer to your issue. Once your roof is adequately vented to allow the hot air to escape and the cool air to enter the attic space, your home will be more comfortable year-round.
Need To Discuss Proper Roofing Ventilation? Greater Cincinnati Roofing and Remodeling offers some of the best roof ventilation systems on the market today. We are here to help you in ensuring your roof lasts for years to come, and protecting your home against potential damage of excessive heat or ice-damming. Give us a call today for all your Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati area roofing needs.