The Many Benefits of Proper Attic Ventilation

Adequate attic ventilation is one of the unsung heroes of a functional and long-lasting roofing system. At first, it sure seems counterintuitive to install insulation to trap warm, indoor air, and then intentionally allow cold drafts to come into the attic. However, the combination of proper insulation and ventilation matters in order to keep your home energy-efficient and durable.

The experts at Garlock-French Corporation explain the many roles good attic ventilation plays:

Extending Shingle Life

Ample venting prevents heat buildup. The intake vents pull in the colder outside air through the lower parts of the roof to replace the warm inside air. As a result, your ventilation system passively regulates your attic climate, keeping it from becoming a furnace during the hottest months.

Excessive heat is one of the main culprits behind shingle curling. The chronic high temperature would cause the bottom side of the shingles to age faster and wear prematurely. This is why ensuring your attic’s climate is close to the outside temperature is an effective way to keep your asphalt shingle roofing system intact.

Preventing Ice Dams

Ice dams happen when the plane of the roof is warmer than the eaves. The relatively hot surface would melt the snow only to refreeze when its liquid form reaches the edges. The formation of the icicles is detrimental to your roof is many ways. Ice dams could cause the water to seep into the shingles and add extra load for your roof to support. Plus, they would hurt anyone when they fall to the ground. Making sure your attic has sufficient ventilation is imperative to avoid damaging ice dams.

Inhibiting Condensation

Proper attic ventilation is your home’s way of breathing out moisture. The inability to expel moisture would lead to condensation, which sets the stage for rot and mold growth. Whether you have an asphalt shingle, tile, slate, or metal roofing system, optimizing the airflow in the attic is paramount to prevent moisture-related damage.

Does your roof have adequate attic ventilation? Contact Garlock-French Corporation now to find out. We’ll be happy to schedule your roof inspection in Minneapolis or St. Paul, MN, at your most convenient date and time.