Importance of Attic Ventilation

Benefits of Attic Ventilation

Proper attic ventilation is a must. The air in an attic should be completely replaced by new air six times an hour. A balanced system takes air from the lowest point of your roof (the eaves) and exhausts it out the highest point of your roof

(the peak). Both the intake and exhaust should work equally to create the perfect ventilation system. However, many vent systems on roofs are installed incorrectly. Poor air flow can cause multiple problems, including health issues.

There are four main benefits of having great ventilation in an attic

1. Reduces Energy Cost

During the warmer months, ventilation works to move cooler air into your attic and force the warmer air out. If hot air stays in your attic for too long, it will increase the temperature in the rest of your house and cause your AC to work overtime.

2. Protects Your Roof

In the summer, high attic temperature plus the outside radiant temperature will scorch your shingles reducing their expected life span. In the winter, the warm air from living spaces rise into the attic, and if trapped by poor ventilation will condensate on the cool attic ceiling. Consistent condensation will cause moisture issues such as: roof decking delamination, wood rot and even mold or mildew.

3. Keeps Your Home Dry

As mentioned previously, moisture can build up in your attic when air is not properly circulated. That moisture can create mold and destroy the framework of your house. Sadly, many homeowners don’t notice the decay until it is too late. Moisture plus the wood that makes up your home is the perfect environment for termites.

4. Keeps your Family Healthy

If air is not properly circulating through your attic, the air becomes trapped. Trapped air causes dust, germs, mold and other pollutants to build up to build up over time because Want to add a caption to this image? Click the Settings icon. those pollutants have nowhere to go. While air quality effects everyone, children are more susceptible to poor air quality. If the air quality is poor enough, it may inflame respiratory issues such as allergies and asthma, particularly in young children.

If you have concerns about your ventilation system, call a licensed roofing company to schedule an inspection. If you live in Middle Tennessee, consider giving Archway Roofing a call. Our inspections are FREE and we take pride in keeping homes dry and healthy.