How to Detect and Resolve Poor Roof Ventilation Problems

Roof ventilation is critical to an overall roofing system. Roof ventilation prevents the buildup of moisture and ensures an even distribution of temperature. Proper roof ventilation is key to a long service life for your roofing system, so let’s take a look at how you can detect and resolve some common roof ventilation problems.

Problems Caused by Poor Roof Ventilation

Insufficient roofing ventilation can lead to serious issues for your roof and, in turn, the rest of your home. Let’s look at some of the most severe.

A Buildup of Moisture

Poor roof ventilation can lead to an excessive buildup of moisture under the roof. This can particularly be a problem during the winter. This moisture can cause damage to your entire roofing system, including the decking and even the supports for the underlayment.

Damaged Paint

Poor roof ventilation can also cause moisture to build up inside your home. This moisture can cause damage to the paint in your home, which results in the expense of repainting your house.

Higher Energy Bills

If your roof is poorly ventilated, it will result in heat building up in the attic, which can cause your attic to become excessively hot in the summer. This, in turn, will cause your home to heat up, thus forcing your air conditioner to work hard. As a result of this, you could find yourself paying high energy bills.

Roof Damage

Moisture buildup in the attic can cause damage to your roof. Your attic can become damp, and moisture can build up in the attic, causing mold or fungus to grow on some of your roofing materials. Also, the excess moisture can result in your roofing nails or venting duct straps rusting. You could even find that your roof is beginning to decay.

Ice Dams

Poor ventilation may lead to problems with ice dams as well. The heat from the attic could cause snow to melt in the winter. This water could refreeze at the edge of the roof. This could cause ice to build up around the edges of the roof. Ice could then build up on the roof, causing damage and then leaks as it melts.

Importance of Proper Attic Ventilation

Having an adequately ventilated attic is essential. You want your attic temperature to be very close to the outside temperature. If the attic is sufficiently cool in the winter, it can prevent ice dams from forming. This can prevent you from having to repair the significant damage ice dams can cause.

Fixing Your Roof Ventilation Problems

It’s essential to fix your roofing ventilation problems before they cause damage that would require costly repairs. You need to ensure that your roof has adequate ventilation, and if it doesn’t, then have it installed. Make sure you choose a reputable roofing contractor to install the ventilation. Before hiring the roofing contractor, have them perform a thorough inspection of your roof and give you a detailed estimate of what it will cost to do the job. Always be sure the roofing contractor you choose is fully licensed and insured.

Final Thoughts

Roof ventilation is key to a healthy roofing system and prevents many issues that could lead to shorter service life. By investing in a proper roofing ventilation system, you are investing in the safety and health of your roof and home.

Contact Us

If your roofing ventilation system is in need of maintenance, contact North Shore Roofing. Our experienced roofers have decades of experience helping homeowners with their chimney and roofing needs. Call us at (978) 977-3816 and connect with us on Facebook.