If you want your home to remain a safe space, you need to maintain it. A huge part of home maintenance is taking care of your roof. Many homeowners think they only need to do occasional roof repairs. But that’s not exactly true. Sometimes, maintenance means installing new systems and changing the way you do things. For example, you might need roof ventilation.
A lot of homes have roof ventilation systems that help them maintain proper ventilation inside the house. Roof and attic venting improve airflow, which is especially important in humid, warm climates.
What Does Roof Ventilation Do?
Roof ventilation is vital in homes that have attics and basements. It allows the air to circulate, and improves heating and cooling. That also implies saving on energy consumption.
There are different types of roof vents out there. All roof system vents (be they soffit vents, turbines, box ventilation, or any other kind) will help the warm air exit the house and cold air enter it. The continuous air circulation will keep your home fresh and your roof rot-free.
How Can It Prevent Roof Rot?
Pent-up heat causes condensation and moisture buildup, which lead to water damage and wood rot, as well as the roof overheating. That can be extremely damaging to your roof. But, with proper ventilation, you can protect your living space, maintain the temperature in it, and escape regular and dry rot.
Keeping the Roof Cool
Roof ventilation allows air intake and exhaust. Warm air rises to the very top of your home (the attic) and, unless there’s a way for it to escape, it gets trapped there. It then puts extra pressure on the roof, which can lead to cracking and other types of damage. All of that inevitably results in roof rot.
Stops the Metal From Overextending
Metal roofs are a common choice for many homeowners. They are durable, appealing, and energy-efficient. However, if they aren’t ventilated, they can overextend. Expanding and contracting are expected of metal roofs. However, overextending can severely damage the roof and lead to rot.
Slows Down the Aging Process of the Shingles and Increases Roof’s Lifespan
If your roof has no ventilation, the hot air will build up in your attic. That will leave you with an unbearably hot attic as well as damaged rafters, wood framing, and underlayment. Eventually, the damage will be severe enough for the roof to start rooting.
Releases Pent-Up Heat and Moisture
A lot of heat can only mean one thing — condensation. Plenty of homeowners think that they only need to worry about moisture and condensation after big storms. However, that’s not exactly true.
As we mentioned already, condensation can lead to mold and mildew, which leads to rot. There’s naturally plenty of condensation in our homes. We shower, wash dishes, do laundry, and cook. All of that dampens the air.
Damp air rises to the top of our homes. It will eventually find its way to the attic, where it will get stuck unless it has somewhere to escape. When the warm, damp air hits our cool roof, it will cause condensation. No airing means condensation buildup, which eventually means mold and mildew. Mold and any other organic growth aren’t good for your health or your roof.
First Out Roofing to the Rescue!
So, proper ventilation isn’t something you want to overlook. That’s why here, at First Out Roofing, we make it a priority to talk to all of our clients about how they can best maintain their roofs. We’re always there to lend a helping hand or offer advice. Give us a call today, and schedule your first appointment!
