Attic ventilation is a critical yet often overlooked part of the roofing system. Good attic ventilation not only helps maintain good indoor air quality, but it also plays an important role in your roof’s health. Unfortunately, many homeowners have misconceptions about how attic ventilation works.
Myth: Roof Vents = Proper Ventilation
Not all roof vents are ideal for different homes. For instance, ridge vents may be the most cost-effective type available, but without baffles that keep air out, they won’t be able to provide any ventilation at all. Gable vents can circulate air effectively, but only in a limited area of the attic. An effective ventilation system makes use of a ride-and-soffit continuous system. This design can vary from roof to roof, however, so to get the best ventilation system for your home, turn to our professional team.
Myth: Vents Are Not for Cold Climates
A common belief among homeowners is that roof ventilation only comes in handy during the summer, where it can provide energy efficiency. While ventilation does impact energy efficiency, roofing shingle color, amount of sun exposure and insulation are ultimately more important to your home’s overall energy efficiency than ventilation. Ventilation is particularly important when it comes to moisture damage prevention.
Myth: More Vents = Better
Insufficient ventilation can lead to moisture problems and decreased energy efficiency, but too much ventilation can be just as bad for your home. Vents add roof penetrations, essentially more places where leaks can occur. Vents regulate the temperature in your attic, but you don’t want to start needlessly increasing the number of these penetrations. In addition to increasing your risk of leaks, these seams can also cause blowouts during a hurricane.
How much ventilation does your roof actually need? As a reputable roofing contractor, Greenawalt Roofing Company can provide you with expert home exterior services. Call us at (717) 898-6000 for a FREE estimate today. We serve Lancaster, York, Berks and Dauphin counties.