Proper ventilation is a crucial but often overlooked element of roofing systems. Overlooking ventilation not only can interfere with the performance of your roof but can also impact the rest of your home. Issues are sure to arise because of poor ventilation, and this blog post discusses five of them.
1. Increased Moisture and Mold Development
Inadequate attic ventilation can cause moisture to become trapped. This humid environment is conducive to mold and mildew growth, which can ruin stored possessions and create health issues. Managing attic temperature and humidity is essential to prevent these undesirable outcomes.
2. Damaged Structural Integrity
When moisture from the trapped, humid air invades roofing materials, metal components such as nails and venting straps may accumulate rust. Over time, this may weaken structural components, making them susceptible to further damage. Ensuring a properly ventilated roofing system will protect these essential features and by extension, the structural integrity of the entire home.
3. Deterioration of Roof Shingles and Decking
Poor ventilation leads to heat and moisture accumulating under your roof shingles, causing them to prematurely age, crack and lose granules. By keeping the attic well-ventilated, you can be sure that the roof’s components perform at their best for as long as possible.
4. Excessive Energy Consumption
Another issue caused by poor roof ventilation is the added strain on your HVAC system resulting from trapped heat in the attic. This not only shortens the life of the equipment but causes a spike on your energy bills. Proper ventilation can alleviate this stress and contribute to a more comfortable and cost-effective home environment.
5. Ice Dam Formation and Leakage
Cold winter conditions can exacerbate poor ventilation issues through ice dam formation. Heat escaping from a poorly ventilated attic melts snow on the roof, which refreezes at the eaves and creates a blockage that prevents water from draining off the roof. This can lead to water leakage inside the home, damaging walls, ceilings and potentially necessitating the need for emergency roof repair.
Addressing poor roof ventilation starts with an assessment by a team of professionals. Enhancing attic airflow can involve installing proper intake vents at the eaves and exhaust vents at the roof’s peak. Ensuring that insulation does not obstruct these vents and possibly adding a ridge vent can significantly improve ventilation further.
For top-notch residential roofing services, count on us at Window World of Boston. Call us today at (781) 262-3925 (Woburn, MA), (781) 343-7129 (Pembroke, MA) and (508) 845-6676 (Shrewsbury, MA). You can also use this contact form to reach us.
