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Attic Ventilation is Important

When the discussion of attic ventilation and the proper amount of ventilation necessary starts, it can cause a lot of controversies. A wide variety of research has been conducted on this topic. This research supports the idea of ventilation for roof assemblies using asphalt shingles.

This fact is especially true for roofing systems located in cold climates where snow can accumulate on rooftops for long periods. When this situation happens, the research supports that ventilation can be a strategy in removing excess moisture from the attics. This removal helps to prevent condensation, which damages roof sheathing, and it also helps to prevent ice dam formation.

Excellent attic ventilation will also reduce the air temperature in the attic during the summer months. The research does not support a significant benefit associated between attic ventilation and roof surface temperature.

Some experts question if attic ventilation may not be as powerful in reducing the average roof surface temperature as some other methods when replacing a worn-out roof. In fact, the research suggests that ventilation has less of an effect on rooftop temperature than changing the direction of a roof surface or changing the color of the shingles. Either way, research supports the benefits associated with attic ventilation.

Benefits of Attic Ventilation

One of the most significant advantages of attic ventilation is that it can extend the life of your roof. When ice builds up on the edges of the roofs and gutters, this ice damming can be extremely damaging to your roof. This damming happens because the heat inside your attic mixes with the heat of the sun to melt the snow on the roof.

This melting water collects on the edge and refreezes. When you properly vent your attic, the warm air will escape before it can melt the ice and snow on the roof of your home. Proper attic ventilation also benefits your roof when the weather is warm. This heat can build up and cause a sweltering attic. This heat works from the inside out and damages the shingles from the inside.

Another benefit of attic ventilation is that it reduces the energy costs of your home. The temperature increases outside, and inside we want it more refreshing. When the attic has ventilation, it allows the heat to escape and will reduce the amount of work the air conditioner needs to do.

Finally, proper attic ventilation will help to reduce the temperature extremes you experience inside your home. These temperature extremes can happen from room to room but can also be from ceiling to floor.

Researchers believe that these types of extremes are the cause of improperly vented roofs. When you properly vent your roof, hot air is allowed to escape, and the cooler air will enter the attic. This process helps your home to be more temperature regulated year-round.