Residential and commercial roofing systems are often installed with ventilation registers and shafts in the eaves. These shafts allow air to circulate inside the roof assembly, aerating it and controlling humidity and moisture levels. Proper roof and attic ventilation is essential in preventing many different roofing problems.
Improper or inadequate ventilation causes more troubles for your roof than all other factors combined. Today, A1 Siding & Roofing explains what happens when a roof is poorly ventilated.
Premature Roof Replacement
Too much moisture is bad for the wooden beams and supports that hold together your residential roofing system. This can cause softening and rot which greatly diminishes the lifespan of the entire roof, necessitating premature roof replacement. Ventilating addresses this concern by allowing the warm, humid air that builds up in the attic to escape outside.
Energy Inefficiency
High humidity is also linked with high temperatures. Keeping your attic warm means your air conditioning unit has to work overtime to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. This will be reflected in your energy bills.
Ice Dams
A poorly ventilated attic presents a new set of challenges during winter. Without ventilation, the attic will be warmer than the outdoor temperature, causing snow that lands on the roof to melt. As it drips down to the bottom of the roof, it will refreeze, forming dangerous ice dams. These can cause serious damage to your roof and gutters. Call your roofing contractor right away if you’re dealing with ice dams.
Mold and Mildew
Warm, humid places create the ideal environment for mold and mildew to grow and spread. While this might not affect the structure of the roof per se, it does pose a risk to the health of your family.
At A1 Siding & Roofing, we will ensure that your roof and attic are well ventilated. Give us a call at (603) 627-7339 or fill out our contact form to schedule a roof vent inspection and get a free quote today. We serve homeowners in Manchester, NH, and nearby areas.
