Roof vents are part of a complete roofing system, yet not all homes are properly vented and that can cause major problems. Whether you live in an area with a hot climate or cold climate, a roof ventilation system helps to maintain temperatures in your attic or roof deck to prolong the lifespan of your roof.
There are two main parts to your roof’s ventilation system: the intake vents and the exhaust vents. Intake vents allow cool air into your attic or ventilation space and exhaust vents blow hot air out. Thus, you have a proper ventilation system.
For most homes, soffit vents are the most popular type of intake vent because they are easy to install and hidden from sight. Many people also like choosing ridge vents as their exhaust vent, as it is also practically invisible and allows continuous airflow. However, ridge vents may be costly to retrofit on an existing roof and it’s not always the most practical choice. There are many types of intake and exhaust vents and the best type of each for your home ultimately depends on the style and shape of your roof.
It’s possible to have an unvented roof. However, there are downsides, especially if you live in an area with humidity, rain, or snow. If you don’t have a roof ventilation system, you need to keep your roof deck warm enough to prevent condensation within your roof. There are ways to do this, but the warmer temperatures can reduce shingle life. Furthermore, installing an unvented roof can actually void or limit the manufacturer’s warranty on your roofing shingles.
As mentioned before, a roof ventilation system helps your roof last longer. Roof vents help to control moisture that could otherwise lead to wood rot or mold. In freezing temperatures, it prevents ice dams from forming on the edges of your roof, which can get underneath your shingles and cause structural damage to your home.
In hot temperatures, your roof vents will also maintain the temperature of your home so that your shingles don’t bake under the sun and get damaged. It also vastly helps with energy costs; without a proper ventilation system, the heat in your attic will build up which will wreak havoc on your A/C bill!
If you currently have an unvented roof, IBEX Roofing can help you determine the best way to install a roof ventilation system to help protect your roof from extreme temperatures. We can also recommend the best solutions to repairing or replacing existing vents if you are experiencing any issues.
