Attic Ventilation and Airflow

Let’s talk about attic ventilation. It may seem counterintuitive to insulate your home so thoroughly and then willingly ventilate your attic space. However, proper attic ventilation is critical to a healthy roof and the conservation of energy. Attic ventilation allows cool air to enter through intake vents at the eaves, and hot air to exit via exhaust vents at the peak of the roof.

Static and mechanical ventilation systems are the two methods of attic ventilation.

Static ventilation relies on the scientific fact that hot air rises. With intake vents located at the eaves and exhaust vents located at the ridge, cool air is pulled in at the base of the roof and hot air is released at the peak of the roof as it rises. This is a simple, yet effective way to create proper airflow in your attic space.

Mechanical ventilation uses electricity or solar power to create air movement. Intake and exhaust vents are still required, but the mechanical components help pull air through. When using a mechanical exhaust vent you must ensure the intake vents are not blocked accidentally. If they are, it can result in pulling air from the conditioned space and cost you more money to control the temperature of your home.

A properly vented attic works in all climates. During the summer, a well-vented attic enables hot air to escape the attic, which lessens the demand on your air conditioning system. In an unventilated attic, solar heated air and moisture can get trapped in the attic space and damage the shingles above. If the insulation is not properly installed it can also seep into your conditioned space and cost you more money to heat or cool your home. 

The ventilation system functions much the same in winter months. Cold, outdoor air comes in the intake vents and hot air that has risen to the attic is expelled through the exhaust vents. However, it benefits homeowners in a different way than during the summer months. Keeping the attic cool prevents the chance of ice damming that can cause roof damage. Ice damming occurs when hot air is trapped in the attic space and melts snow on the exterior of the roof. The melted snow then refreezes at the edge of the roof or in the gutters and can block water drainage and cause it to leak into your home. 

Do you know the current state of your ventilation system? Elite Roofing and Restoration can perform a no-hassle inspection to check for any roof damage. If you have water damage or roof damage caused by improper ventilation, contact our team for quality service that will save you time and money. 

Elite Roofing and Restoration is your source for quality roof repair and replacement.

In addition to roof replacements and repairs, both commercial and residential, we offer a considerable list of additional home repair services to assist you with any general construction needs you may have.

Contact us today to schedule your no-hassle, complimentary roof inspection today.