While many know that roofing protects homes from rain and snow, roof ventilation also plays a vital role that shouldn’t be neglected. A well-ventilated roof allows hot and humid air a path to escape from your attic while granting fresh and cool air a way to enter. This temperature regulation is crucial for the well-being of the infrastructure of a building. When the ventilation of a roof is damaged, old, or in poor quality, several problems can arise. Let’s review the benefits of roof ventilation in keeping the structure of your home safe and secure.
A Properly Ventilated Roof Is Essential in Hot Weather
During the hotter months of the year, roof ventilation is needed more than ever, so hot air has an avenue of escape. If hot air is allowed to build up in an attic, the excess heat will begin to inflict a wide range of harm on your home. The shingles can age at a considerably faster rate when they are cooked from intense heat, while roof sheathing can warp. Interior problems may also occur, as high heat levels can cause paint and wallpaper to sustain damage. Having a properly ventilated roof will prevent you from experiencing such complications, increasing the longevity of your roof as a result.
Additionally, inadequate roof ventilation can lead to uncomfortable conditions if hot air can’t flow out easily. Many homeowners will raise their air conditioning levels to compensate for this excess heat. However, doing so will result in higher energy bills. When there is less heat in the home, the air conditioning needs to work less, meaning that proper roof ventilation can save you money on your electrical bills.
Roof Ventilation Is Vital During Cold Months
Homes with functioning roof ventilation also fare better in cold environments. Many household activities, such as bathing, cooking, and doing laundry, can create moisture. Typically, this moisture will leave homes through ventilation, but when this humid air comes into contact with a cold roof, the temperature difference will cause the moisture to condense.
This condensed moisture can lead to a variety of issues in the attic. Metal components like nails or screws can become rusted or corroded, while insulation can sustain harm and lower in quality. Further, the moist conditions make it easier for mold to grow, the spores of which can spread through your home and reduce its air quality. With a functioning roof ventilation system, you have a measure of protection against these issues.
Another reason why roof ventilation is important is by preventing ice damming. If too much heat builds up in an attic, it will combine with the sun’s temperature and melt the bottom layers of snow on the roof. The melted water then refreezes when it reaches the edge of the roof, creating icicles that can degrade your roof structure. When hot air is able to easily escape through ventilation, then ice dams won’t be able to develop as easily after a snowfall.
Should a storm or accident damage your roof, you can call on Tried and True Roofing for emergency roof repair in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins. Our capable team can assist with both residential and commercial roof repair so your building can receive the protection it needs.