The ventilation in your attic is probably not something that you think about too often, but it actually plays a critical role in the overall health of your roof. You see, your attic is not just a space to keep your extra stuff. A well-ventilated attic serves the main purpose of getting rid of excess moisture. Even with a tightly sealed roofing system, moisture can still get in through tiny cracks and crevices in the roof deck.
Your attic is usually ventilated through intake vents along the soffits and exhaust vents at the peak of the roof. This configuration promotes continuous airflow throughout the entire space. Cool outdoor air makes its way through the soffit vents and cycles with the warm, humid air that makes its way to the highest point of your home.
On a hot, sunny day, the sun beats down on your roof, which increases the temperature in your attic. This excess heat can warp and distort even the most durable roofing shingles, necessitating a repair call to your local roofing company. The heat in your attic can also make its way to the living areas of your home, making it harder for your air conditioning system to bring down the temperature. This results in a higher electricity bill.
In climates where the temperature dips below zero, warm air in the attic that makes its way from the heated space below also warms the roof deck, melting the bottom layer of accumulated snow. Later, this snowmelt can refreeze into ice and form ice dams along the eaves of your roof. An attic with good ventilation helps keep everything dry, minimizing the occurrence of ice dams and halting mold growth.
Roof Masters is one of the most trusted roofers serving homeowners in Rockville, MD, and its surrounding areas. To schedule an appointment, simply give us a call at (301) 230-7663, or fill out our contact form to request a quick quote today.