Roof Ventilation: How Does it Improve Energy Efficiency?

Roof ventilation doesn’t really get the attention it deserves. Every energy-efficient home needs a roof that can breathe properly to avert a host of problems arising from heat buildup and moisture accumulation.

Checking the adequacy of attic ventilation is high on the agenda of My Roofing when conducting roof inspections. Here’s why:

Regulating Attic Temperature

Even if your attic space isn’t finished, you have to be particular with its climate. It can turn into a furnace during the hottest part of the day because of your roof’s proximity to the sun. The heat can transfer to your nearest rooms, making them too warm for comfort.

A functional thermostat should recognize the rise of air temperature, and signal your air conditioner to bring it down. But improper attic ventilation would make your HVAC equipment work harder and run more frequently. Experienced roofing contractors like My Roofing would say it’s one of the common reasons why cooling costs skyrocket.

Keeping Insulation in Good Shape

In the winter when your home is warmer than the outside, a poorly ventilated attic allows condensation to happen. The moisture in hot air transforms into liquid water onto construction elements. Sooner or later, your attic or roof insulation would turn damp. When soaked, any insulation material loses its ability to reduce the transfer of thermal energy. In the end, a significant amount of heat your HVAC system generates could escape your home and drive up your energy costs.

Preventing Structural Damage

To inhibit water intrusion, ensuring that attic ventilation is adequate is just as important as keeping your gutters properly pitched and clog-free. Condensation is bad news for the wooden and metal components of your roof, such as decking boards and nails. Before you know it, you could have serious cases of rot and rust, which increase the chances of leakage.

If you have a finished attic space, structural damage isn’t your only concern. The gaps caused by deteriorated materials provide conditioned air escape routes.

There are many types of roof ventilation systems, but many of them don’t apply to all properties. Let My Roofing determine whether your attic has the right intake-and-exhaust-vent combination to boost (or at least not compromise) your home’s energy efficiency. Call us at (817) 912-5500 now to discuss your roofing needs, and get a free estimate.