Roof ventilation is one of the best things that you can do to your home. Not only will it help extend the lifespan of your roof, but it will also help you live comfortably inside your house.
If you’re looking to improve the ventilation in your home, this piece is for you. In this piece, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about roof ventilation and which type is the best for your home.
What is roof ventilation?
Roof ventilation refers to the process of circulating air in and out of the roof cavity/roof space of a building.
Roof ventilation systems typically consist of vents that are installed on the roof or in the eaves of the building, and these vents work together to create a natural flow of cool air, that helps regulate the temperature and humidity levels in the roof space.
These vents are designed to remove hot, humid air and moisture that can build up in the attic and roof, and replace it with cooler, drier air from the outside.
Why is roof ventilation important?
Moisture buildup can cause serious damage to a roof over time, leading to rotting and decay of the roof deck and the framing structure, which could also weaken the roof's structural integrity and shorten its lifespan.
This is where roof ventilation plays a crucial role. The adequate ventilation reduces the amount of heat that builds up in the roof cavity space by allowing air to circulate freely, thus, preventing moisture buildup and extending the lifespan of your roof.
In addition, a well-ventilated roof helps to reduce the temperature in the roof space (hot air rises), which can help prevent the shingles from deteriorating due to heat and UV exposure.
Not to mention, a cooler attic space can also reduce the amount of heat that enters the living spaces below, reducing the strain on the home's air conditioner cooling system and potentially lowering energy bills and running costs.
Isn’t that neat? Just by installing proper roof ventilation, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your roof and save money on repairs and replacement costs in the long run.
Different Types of Roof Vents
Depending on your budget, the size and shape of your roof, and the climate in your area, your options may vary. Below are some of the most common roof ventilation types you can choose from:
Ridge Ventilation
This type of roof vent is installed along the ridge of the roof. It allows hot moist air to escape from the attic space and is designed to work with other types of vents to create a natural flow of air.
Gable Ventilation
This type of ventilation system consists of vents installed on the gable ends of the roof. It allows hot air to escape from the attic space. If combined with other types of vents, this can provide better ventilation.
Soffit Ventilation
These are vents installed in the soffit or the area under the eaves of the roof. It allows fresh air to enter the roof cavity space and also works well with other types of vents to create a natural flow of cool air.
Turbine Ventilation
This system consists of a wind turbine installed on the roof that rotates and draws hot air out of the roof cavity. It does not require electricity to operate and can be a cost-effective option for some homeowners.
Power Ventilation
This is a type of ventilation system that uses an electric fan to pull hot air out of the attic space. It can be more effective than other types of ventilation systems, but it also requires electricity to operate.
Solar Ventilation
As the name suggests, a solar roof ventilation system uses a solar-powered fan to pull hot air out of the roof space. It is an efficient and eco-friendly option that does not require electricity to operate, but it may not be as effective as other types of ventilation systems in areas with limited sunlight.
So, which type is the most effective roof ventilation?
The most effective roof ventilation system depends on a variety of factors, including the size and shape of the roof, the climate in which the home is located, and the ventilation needs of the specific home.
However, based on experience, if you use both intake and exhaust types of roof vents to move warm air and create a natural flow of air through the roof space, that can be the most effective strategy for your home.
Soffit vents, for example, which are located under the eaves of the roof, are often used as intake vents to allow fresh air to enter the roof cavity space. On the other hand, ridge vents or other types of exhaust vents, such as gable vents or turbine vents, are used to allow hot air to escape from the roof space.
Keep in mind that the size and placement of vents are critical to the effectiveness of the ventilation system. It's also crucial that the ventilation system is properly installed and perfectly balanced to achieve maximum effectiveness.
Ask our experienced roofing contractors here at Roofline and we’ll help you determine the best type, size, and placement of vents for the specific needs of your home.
6 Signs of Poor Roof Ventilation
It’s easy to spot a home that has no or very little roof ventilation. Below are some common signs to look out for in your home.
Excessive or extreme Heat
If your attic or roof space feels excessively hot, it may be a sign that your roof ventilation is inadequate. A hot roof space can cause shingles to deteriorate and lead to other problems.
High Humidity
If you notice that the air in your roof space is very humid, it’s also a sign of poor roof ventilation. Excessive humidity can lead to mould and mildew growth, which can damage the roof structure and pose a health risk to occupants.
Ice Dams
Ice dams occur when the snow melts on the roof and refreezes at the eaves. If you live in a cold climate and you notice ice dams forming on the roof during the winter, it may be a sign that there is poor ventilation.
Ice dams can lead to water damage and other problems so get them fixed immediately. This is less of a problem in Australia than it is in other parts of the world, but still a good idea to know about it.
Curling Shingles
Excessive heat can cause shingles to deteriorate and curl, leading to leaks and other problems. If you notice that the shingles on your roof are curling or buckling, have your roof inspected and see what roof vent you should install to address the problem.
Peeling Paint
Poor ventilation causes moisture buildup in the roof cavity and can lead to condensation on the interior walls, which can cause paint to peel. So, if you notice that the paint on the exterior walls of your home is peeling or blistering, poor ventilation may be the culprit.
Musty Odours
Poor ventilation can create a humid environment that is conducive to mould and mildew growth. And if there’s mould growth in the attic or living spaces of your house, musty odours are also inevitable.
If you notice any of these signs in your home, chances are, your home may have poor roof ventilation and badly needs updating. So, get your roof inspected as soon as possible to see if installing new roof vents is necessary.
Do You Need a Roof Ventilation Solution?
Roof vents are certainly a must-have in every home, and there’s a wide range of options to choose from if you ever need one. But no matter what kind of roof ventilation you install for your home, it’s going to be worth it because roof ventilation works. Not only will it help you avoid costly repairs just a few years after the roof installation, but it can also help lower your electricity bills, reduce your need to use air conditioning and energy consumption, and make your home safer.
But when the time comes that your roof has already served you well and deserves some TLC, just contact Roofline for some roof maintenance and roof repair work!
