Roof ventilation, also known as attic ventilation, is one of the most important parts of a house and must be built accurately when the home is constructed. Generally, proper air circulation in the space underneath the top of a house can promote good inner room temperatures and may lower energy cooling usage. It will help to neutralize the temperature under the roof of the house as appropriate during both summer and winter months. There are various attic outlets sold in the market today that provide divergent changing of that upper level air depending on the overall structure, attic size and weather conditions.

Types

Currently, there are several types of roofing ventilation that are commonly used to provide beneficial circulation inside a house. It is important to consult a contractor to help determine which of these are appropriate to install since they all have positive and negative aspects. There are two types of outlets: intake and exhaust. Intake openings are mainly designed to maximize ridge vent performance and include gable, starter, soffit and cornice. Cool air will move from outside to inside for the replacement of hot air and the creation of temperature balance. Exhaust outlets are installed to allow air to escape from the attic. They include static and turbine. Both types are important to protect a home. Accordingly, choose the right one that suits the needs of the home.

Benefits

The advantage of proper roofing ventilation during the summer is a decrease in the attic temperature which can conserve the use of the air conditioning unit and prevent it from running beyond what is considered normal. It also averts heat buildup, making a home cooler and more comfortable. During winter, openings placed at this upper level can: control ice dam formations by not allowing any ‘cold’ spots in the attic; keep moisture from accumulating within the attic; and prevent moisture build-up on the inside surfaces. Condensation can destroy the wood decking and heat barriers as well as the interior sheathing. One of the greatest benefits is that it prevents premature roofing failure.

Importance

Attic air exchange is one of the most important components of any house. Many years ago, it was not known just how important it actually was to have air exchange capability installed in this upper space below the top of a house. This simple action is vital to prevent the entrapment of heat and moisture which contributes to an increase in the use of electricity. The roofing system needs to be able to "breath" by allowing air to circulate in the attic and to extend the serviceable life of the important upper structure of a building.

Roofing ventilation is vital, so when installing a new housetop covering, talk to the contractors about how and where it will be installed. Make sure that it is on the peak of the roof and equipped with many options. The contractor should pick the best vent that suits the design of the house. Do not underestimate the importance of ventilation and how it can help, because installing a new housetop covering without proper vents leaves the future of the roof in question. Refresh the attic air and extend the life of the all-important roof!