Regular maintenance can extend the life of your roof, so can insuring you have proper attic ventilation. Keeping the air flowing in your attic can minimize ice damning and lower your energy costs. Moisture produced inside the home may move to the attic if ceiling vapor barriers are not used. If moisture is not removed from the attic it can cause deterioration of your roofing materials.
The main goal is for attics to keep rain and snow out of your home and to be free of moisture problems and also the control of heat gain or loss.
Proper Air Flow
An effective roofing system will allow air to flow constantly through your attic, while keeping the inside temperature constant. If additional air flow is needed, there are temperature controlled power ventilators that can move the air in the attic.
Basically, for every 300 square feet of ceiling space, you need one square foot of attic ventilation. Gable vents may allow a small amount of air through your attic, roof line vents are effective for ventilation but usually not recommended due to leaking issues, and soffit vents may leave air trapped at the top of the attic. Ridge vents and soffit vents are generally the best and the most cost effective venting available according to most roofing experts.
Talk to A Roofing Professional
Talking to a roofing professional will help you determine if you have enough ventilation. Also check local building codes that may affect your home.
