Poor attic ventilation is a more common problem than you think. According to The American Institute of Architects, almost 90% of households in the country have this problem. Without adequate attic ventilation, certain roofing issues might appear.
These are:
- Mold and Mildew
In a well-ventilated roof or attic, cooler air from outside enters through intake vents and pushes warmer indoor air out through the exhaust vents. But if there aren’t enough intake or exhaust vents, warm, humid air becomes trapped in your attic, creating a damp environment that’s the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Mold is a big problem because it eats away wood and can easily affect the other parts of your home. Not to mention it can cause allergy flare-ups.
- Spongy Decking
In a damp environment, the roof decking (which serves as your roof’s base) might absorb excess moisture, which would weaken the adhesives holding your deck together and potentially cause parts of the decking to sag. If you notice parts of your ceiling are starting to sag, contact a licensed roofing contractor as soon as possible.
- Increased Strain on HVAC Systems
It’s normal for electricity consumption to spike in winter and summer. But if you’ve noticed a consistent increase in your electricity bill, poor attic ventilation might be to blame. Since warm, humid air can’t exit the roof or attic, your HVAC system will have to work harder to keep indoor temperatures at a comfortable level. This, in turn, increases the strain on your HVAC system, which could result in more frequent breakdowns.
How Much Ventilation Does Your Roof and Attic Need?
As a rule of thumb, there should be a square foot of net free area (NFA)—the area through which air can pass—every 300 square feet of floor area for attics with a vapor barrier. If you’re not sure if your attic has enough ventilation, consult your local roofing company.
Looking for roofers near you?
Genesis Roofing offers a wide range of professional roofing services, including roof replacement services. To get a free estimate or schedule an appointment with our HAAG-certified contractors, call us at (515) 202-1667 or fill out this form. Talk to us today! We serve homeowners in Clive and the surrounding IA communities.