If you live any sort of climate that receives hot temperatures any time through the year, you know the upper levels of your home can get uncomfortably warm. Many homeowners think it is because their air conditioning isn’t working properly and they crank it up to cool those rooms down. You might not consider if the ventilation in your attic is actually what is causing the elevated temperatures.
Poor attic ventilation can cause a number of concerns for your home and especially your roof.
Understanding attic ventilation will help you not only understand why your upper levels are so warm, but also why it is so important for a healthy roofing system. We’re going to walk you through what attic ventilation is and why it is so important.
What is Attic Ventilation?
In short, attic ventilation allows your home to breathe. Science shows us that warm air rises, so naturally, all of the warm air from your house will rise to the attic space. If left untouched, this hot air can cause significant damage to your roof, home, and all of the belongings you might store inside the attic space.
Luckily, ventilation is installed as a part of the roofing system that allows this warm air a way to escape. There are several types of roofing vents that are used to help alleviate your attic of hot air and each serve their own special purpose. You can read more about the types of roofing vents here. It is important to understand that there are vents that draw cool air from the outside into the attic and others that suck the air from the attic and outside. You likey have several types of vents installed in your roof already.
Why is Attic Ventilation Important?
Attic ventilation is incredibly important for several reasons. We’re listing a few of the greatest benefits of having proper ventilation for your attic.
Extend Roof Lifespan
Depending on the material your roof is made of, it can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years or more! Improper attic ventilation can cause your roofing materials to break down and deteriorate at an expedited rate. The hot air that will be trapped in the attic will cause excessive damage to your roof and require it to be replaced before it should.
As moisture forms inside the attic space, it will seep through the roof deck and to the underlayment of the roof. Essentially, improper attic ventilation installation will cause damage from the inside out. If you want to prevent this from happening, ask your local roofer to assess your ventilation and provide you with the best options. Doing so can help extend the lifespan of your roofing system.
Prevents Mold Growth
Your attic is the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth, especially if it is full of hot air. Without proper attic ventilation, you are promoting mold and mildew growth on the surfaces of your attic, including personal belongings.
Having ventilation that allows this warm air to be released will not only help prevent growth, but also help your health stay strong. If you have your local roofer determine you need more attic ventilation because mold is growing, you may also consider calling a professional mold removal company. When your health is at risk, we recommend getting the opinion of several professionals to ensure the current risks are completely removed and further issues will not show up.
Cuts Down On Electric Costs
Like we said before, many homeowners think the upper levels of their home is hot because their cooling systems are not functioning as they should. As a result, they crank their systems up on the hottest days to help these spaces stay cool. However, this not only raises electrical bills, but also causes your HVAC systems to work over time.
Attics that are properly ventilated can help cut down on your electric bills. When the warm attic air has an escape, the rooms below it will not be as warm. Before you spend excessive money on your AC system, discuss your ventilation opticians with your local roofer first.
Work With A Professional
Craven Construction is your East Valley roofing professional. We are available to assess your roofing system, including the attic space, and provide you with our expert advice on your ventilation needs. Our team brings over two decades of roofing experience and we are licensed and insured for your added peace of mind. Contact our office to schedule your FREE estimate today!
Are you interested in having your attic ventilation assessed?
About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.