Why roof ventilation? Read how roof vents protect your home

Roof Ventilation can involve venting the roof deck alone or the entire attic. Roof Ventilation is essential for several different reasons depending on the climate. In colder climates, it is useful to keep the roof temperature cold and stave off ice dams from melting snow and expel cold air that rises from the living space. Where the climate is warm, the purpose is to expel hot air from the roof and reduce the strain on the building’s cooling system.

Further, roof ventilation helps to prevent the musty smell that is often found in attics and roof damage caused by poor ventilation ­­– which can void your asphalt shingle’s manufacturer warranty. So, how can you ventilate your roof and attic space? Read on to find out.

There are several options available for proper roof ventilation, some effective options are:

1. Ridge Vents

Ridge vents are installed at the ridgeline (the peak of a sloped roof) to let out humid or hot air from the attic of a building. They are typically installed in shingled residential buildings. Before installing a ridge vent, cut out a 1-inch wide strip of your roof decking on both sides of the ridge to allow for proper airflow.

2. Gable Vents

Gable vents are typically installed in the gable ends (triangles found at the front and back – and sometimes sides –) of a building. Gable vents, placed at both ends of the attic, help to expel hot or moist air in the attic and bring in the fresh air. Gable vents are usually louvred and push air out of the attic while preventing moisture from snow or rain from coming into the attic.

3. Soffit Vents

A soffit vent is a vent installed in the underside of building eaves that draws fresh air into the attic. Before installing a soffit vent, you should ensure that there is a point of entry and exit for airflow. Without proper cross-ventilation, you run the risk of trapping air inside, which defeats the purpose of installing a roofing ventilation system. Soffit vents aid convective airflow towards the ridge vent. For soffit vents to be effective, it is advisable that you install insulation baffles as well to prevent attic insulation from impeding airflow from the soffit vents to the ridge vents.

4. Attic Fans

Another useful technique of roof ventilation is attic fans. You can install fans and vents which will draw out the air from the attic space and expel it outdoors. The fans help to remove moist or warm air from the attic without letting in moisture from outside. They can be controlled by a thermostat which will activate them when it detects heat build-up in the attic or by a switch. For a greener option, you can install solar-powered fans to save energy.

Ventilation is essential in all aspects of the home. Where it concerns the roof, proper ventilation increases the life expectancy of the roof, your comfort, and the effectiveness of your heating and cooling systems. Speak to our experts today if you need professional help.