Why do we need proper roof ventilation?
The simple answer is to let the heat out of your attic, but that’s not the only reason. An effective ventilation system in your roof reduces the amount of heat in the summer and moisture in the winter in your attic space. It helps to make your heating and cooling systems more efficient. This, in effect, helps increase the life of your roof too not to mention help save you money on utility bills.
Roof vents, (exhaust), let the air out of your attic, but that air has to be replaced. You want it to be replaced with cooler air, but where does that air come from? In addition to exhaust vents, you need intake vents. The coolest air anywhere around your house is usually under the overhangs, because it is always shaded. That’s why the best place for intake ventilation is the soffit (where the roof overhangs on the supporting wall). Vented vinyl or aluminum soffit is an easy way to allow cooler air into your attic to replace the hot air exiting through the roof vents.
Generally, you should have at least the same amount of intake as you have exhaust. A good rule of thumb is to have 1 square foot of ventilation for every 150 square feet of attic space; half should be intake and half exhaust.
Following these guidelines is important to the life of your roof and for your wallet in the long run. A few indicators that you may not be getting adequate ventilation are if you notice the following:
- Excessive heat in the attic during the summer months
- Mold growth
- Frost on sheathing, rafters, or other items in the attic
- Water dripping from tips of nails (not necessarily due to a roof leak)
Call Reynolds Roofing, Exteriors & Coating today for your free estimate on roofing repairs or roofing installation! We are BBB accredited with over 25 years of experience! We are here to serve you!