A well-ventilated attic and roof are not the most common topics at dinner parties, but it is something you should check as you work to maintain the roof of your home in Port Orchard, Gig Harbor, and Tacoma. You see, a roof is not just shingles and tar paper, it’s a larger system that keeps your home protected.
So, here’s how it works. In your attic, you likely have intake vents that are located along the soffits, and exhaust vents that are located at the peak of your roof. These two components work together to keep the air circulating throughout the space.
Proper ventilation ensures that any excess heat and moisture is not an issue in your home. Heat and moisture buildup cause problems like mold, deterioration of your insulation, and issues with your roof and shingles.
How can you tell if you have a poorly ventilated attic?
You can usually tell if your electric bill is noticeably higher. If your HVAC system is working harder to keep your home cool or warm, depending on the season, you likely have ventilation issues.
What usually happens is this, during the summer, the sun will make your attic warmer. If the heat is excessive, it can do two things. The first is that is will likely warp the roof sheathing and prematurely age your shingles. And if your attic floor isn’t evenly or adequately insulated, that heat can radiate down into the finished living areas and make it more difficult and costly to keep the living space comfortable.
In the winter, the process is reversed. If the insulation in your attic is inadequate, the warm air from your living spaces will travel up to your attic, and trap that warm humid air can deteriorate roof components and interior structural elements or ruin your attic’s insulation. This moisture can lead to mold and mildew buildup.
What can you do if your attic isn’t ventilated properly?
There are many complex factors to consider here, like your roof’s architecture, the climate, and the age of your roof. If you think you have a ventilation issue, we recommend you call a professional.
They will do a complete inspection to see if you have enough soffit and ridge vents. And they will inspect your insulation to make sure it’s what your home needs.
It’s not something you’ll need to worry about every year, but once it starts to become a problem, give us a call right away. Poor ventilation can cause so many expensive issues, and we will work hard to make sure your roof is properly ventilated.