Although they are often overlooked, roofs are known to be the most important part of every home. They keep your home safe and dry, provide structural protection, insulation and easily raise your home’s property value. It is also worth noting that a well-maintained roof will be a huge factor for future buyers whilst it guarantees the longevity of its lifespan.
Part of the essential things people should be mindful of is roof ventilation. Any roofing contractor would say a roof vent is essential to the health of your roofing system. As it is designed in keeping the presence of fresh air and getting rid of moisture, no air can properly flow in and out without it. Here, we’ll talk you through it in detail.
Understanding Roof Vents
In general, ventilation refers to the process wherein clean, fresh air is supplied to a singular space and moist, stale air is removed. This focuses on maintaining stable and conditioned air, be it warm or cold, to encourage an efficient and safe enclosed environment. Here are two types of roof vents that you should know about:
- Intake vents allow outside air to flow into areas of ventilation, which is why they are installed along the lowest eave or near eaves. Because these specific vents are necessary for the free movement of air, ensure they remain unobstructed by insulation or other natural elements — or else, you will be dealing with a lot of precipitation as well as animals and insects infestation, prompting a roof repair.
- Exhaust vents are located along with the high points of your roof. Mainly, they work hand-in-hand with the intake vents and are responsible for letting the air inside the attic and ventilation ducts escape your home. It is worth noting that there are several types of exhaust vents, such as the ridge, which is found along the length of the roof, the static, which is installed in the building’s walls, and the turbine, which relies on the wind to rotate their fan blades.
Roof replacement experts suggest that both installation and design are integral to the success of roof ventilation. This makes it essential to have well-constructed roof vents so that a range of problems can be prevented.
Keep in mind that any sort of blockage in the ventilation system should be addressed immediately so that its performance will not be compromised. From a simple roof inspection to routine cleaning and preventive maintenance, hiring a professional roofing contractor to ensure that everything is fully functional at an optimal level is highly critical.
Why Do You Need Roof Vents?
Keeping roof ventilation is essential to the health of your roofing system. It provides a wide range of benefits when installed according to the design and size specifications of your roof and is designed in keeping the presence of fresh air as well as getting rid of moisture. Whether it is for your home or commercial roofing, make certain you have yours for these specific reasons:
1. For Moisture Reduction
For a region with a hot climate where it’s also fairly humid, roofs are at risk. This can often result in moisture buildup in the attic, especially if the insulation is poor, as well as affect the ceiling and interior walls. If the air is not able to flow properly, there is no chance for the moisture in your attic to dry out. Remember that daily household activities can also further contribute to the increased amount of moisture indoors. This includes showering, cooking, and washing.
Roof repair teams note that too much moisture in the attic is concerning. For instance, allergens thrive in homes with high humidity levels, which can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms in the residents. Mold and mildew also multiply rapidly in a moist environment. Moreover, condensation on windows can take form, causing wooden frames to rot and deteriorate.
Hence, it is crucial not to underestimate the impact of the local climate and environment on your roofing system. Fortunately, vents are not only capable of ease the symptoms of excessive moisture, but can also prevent it from occurring in the first place by supporting healthy airflow and circulation inside the home.
2. For Saving Money On Energy Bills
Because roof vents are effective in controlling temperature, they can also ensure cool conditions for the rest of your home. If you have a properly installed roof vent, the air conditioner won’t have to use so much energy to cool your interiors. This assures you won’t have to spend a lot of money on the costs.
Meanwhile, a roof that has a proper ventilation system can relish the benefits of a cooler and more refreshing home, reducing the need for more cooling. This leads to lower energy usage and, consequently, lower utility bills. It also helps reduce the demand for new roof replacement, which contributes to more savings.
3. For Protection
If you’re in an area where humidity is heavy, homeowners are likely focused on staying cool and cozy during hotter temperatures, from staying well hydrated to taking frequent cold showers and being dependent on their HVA unit. Yet again, roof ventilation can be an incredible lifesaver for this.
Your roof ventilation protects your roof from the circumstances of being exposed to warm to extreme temperatures. Without proper ventilation, your attic can turn too hot because the hot air inside cannot escape and no fresh air from the outside can get in. This can cause damage to your roofing materials over time, specifically to the shingles and other features and layers of your roof.
Never forget how moisture trapped in the attic can weaken the plywood roof sheathing and cause the layers of plywood to separate. This can easily lead to mold forming on roof rafters, roofing joists, and attic floor joists. If the problem becomes so severe, there is a good chance that you will have to call a roofing contractor to remove and replace your entire roofing system from top to bottom.
Make sure you have your roof ventilated for all these significant reasons and have it done by a trusted roofer. Summit Roofing & Restoration, Inc. is a family-owned and -operated roofing company that delivers top-quality service to every customer. Please give our friendly team a call at (901) 676-7449 or contact us online for consultations and to learn more.