Roof ventilation is an often overlooked key component of all types of roofing systems. In today’s post, local roofing company Quality Assurance Roofing shares an in-depth look at how roof ventilation works, and what kinds of problems it can prevent.
How Does Roof Ventilation Work?
Proper roof ventilation needs to do two things: vent heat and moisture, which tends to collect in the attic, and replace it with cool and fresh air. There are two types of attic ventilation systems used in residential roofs:
Passive ventilation systems have two main components. The exhaust vents located at the roof’s ridges release warm and humid air by using its tendency to rise. This action creates negative pressure within the attic, which pulls fresh air through intake vents located at the soffits. A good roofer will make sure that both ridge and soffit vents are properly sized to maintain efficient airflow.
Mechanical ventilation systems, on the other hand, utilize powered exhaust fans to bolster or replace ridge vents. These fans can be powered by electricity or built-in solar panels.
What Happens to Improperly-Ventilated Roofs?
Proper roof ventilation can help prevent the following problems:
Damage to insulation — Most types of attic insulation, including batt, expanding foam, and loose-blown fiberglass, tend to form clumps when in contact with moisture. When this happens, it forms gaps in the insulation that would let heat through.
Structural damage — While most roofing structures are built with treated wood, they may still succumb to heat and moisture in the attic through prolonged exposure. This can result in warping that leads to crooked and sagging roofs. Long-term effects include a complete collapse.
Mold growth — An improperly-ventilated roof creates conditions that allow mold to thrive sight unseen. As they spread, mold spores can spread into other parts of the house, including indoor living areas. Mold spores can trigger allergies and other respiratory problems if they reach your indoor spaces.
Quality Assurance Roofing is your leading provider of roof repair and installation services. Give us a call at (479) 279-8500 or (417) 799-7889. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Fayetteville, AR, and the surrounding communities.
