Importance of Ventilation in the Summer – During the summer, the sun beats down directly on the roof, causing hot air to build up in the attic. If this hot air is not able to escape, then the attic temperatures continue to rise, until plywood dries out, glue separates, shingles crack, and dry rot can also occur. This lack of ventilation can lead to a roof with weakened and cracked spots that can be extremely difficult and expensive to repair.
Winter Roof Ventilation in the Winter – Roof ventilation is just as crucial during the winter season as it is during the summer, if not more so. During winter, heat rises into your attic from your home, and if it unable to exhaust from the home, that heat builds up and meets the cold temperatures of the roof. When the hot air of the attic meets the cold roof, this can result in condensation and mold in the roof, which can be extremely damaging. Other winter problems associated with poor roof ventilation include ice and snow accumulations, which can cause the roof to weaken and sag over time.
Science of Roof Ventilation
Roof ventilation consists of a series of strategically placed ridge and soffit vents. These vents rely on the natural densities and pressures of warm and cool air. The vents allow the hot air to exhaust out of the higher vents while cooler air enters through lower vents in order to restore the balance of pressure in the roof. It is crucial to place the vents in the appropriate places to achieve the right amount of airflow for your home.
Consultation
In order to ensure that your roof is being ventilated properly, and in a way that will reduce the risk of damage, consult with a roofing professional. Many contractors will provide inspection services in order to determine where improvements can be made to your existing ventilation systems to improve efficiency and effectiveness.