In yesterday's post we discussed common winter roofing problems. Two of them can result from lack of adequate ventilation for your roof. A properly ventilated attic saves money, can prevent ice dams, and will increase a roof's lifespan. However, 90% of American homes are not ventilated well.
The diagram below shows the basics of proper and insufficient attic ventilation. Which side does yours fit into? The best way to determine if your home is one of them is to hire a professional to assess your situation.
graphic courtesy of ecobecco.com
The Benefits of Adequate Roof Ventilation
All homes breathe, and a part of healthy indoor air quality is proper attic ventilation. When vents are properly installed, air is allowed to move freely as it must without losing the heating or cooling needed for comfortable living.
Sufficient attic or roof ventilation provides the following advantages:
- Decreased heating/cooling expenses
- Preserving the condition of wood and other building materials of your home
- Avoidance of condensation and associated water damage
- Suppression of mold and mildew growth
- Longer siding life
- Ice dam prevention
If your attic is in need of better ventilation, it’s always best to consult with a professional before purchasing or installing your own vents. You can also research online, as there are general rules, such as one square foot of ventilation per 150 square feet of attic space.
However, it’s important to realize that general rules don’t apply to all situations, and different measures may be required for unique architectural types. We’re a licensed MN home improvement company, so if you need to reach out for some professional advice to keep your roof healthy, we’re here to help you out.
Quarve Contracting, Inc. offers roof repair and installation in the Minneapolis and St. Paul area.
Subscribe to Quarve Contracting's Blog
Comments