Roof Ventilation
To make a home more energy efficient, homeowners tend to overemphasize insulation while neglecting proper installation of roof ventilation.
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Roof vents play a critical role in controlling the temperature inside the house. Good roof ventilation systems can also extend the lifetime of your roof. So there are two major benefits that you can enjoy from roof vents: energy efficiency and reduced expenses on roofing maintenance and repair.
Basic Types of Roof Ventilation Systems
1. Ridge Vents - These vents exhaust air from the attic thus keeping moisture away from the roof membrane. Ridge roof ventilation has a dramatic impact on the lifetime of your roofing system. By keeping moisture out, the roof structure will not rot easily.
2. The Soffit Ventilation - This complements the ridge vents and allows air intake. It is also called eave vents and they are capable of regulating and balancing air flow within the attic and your roofing system.
3. Power Cylinder Vent - This type of roof ventilator looks like a turbine and can be installed along the face of the roof. When the turbine spins, it can draw air out of the attic thus regulating temperature inside.
Effects of Improper Installation of Roof Ventilation
One of the most immediate effects of improper roof vent installation is increasing energy bills. Heat buildup in the attic will also increase the level of temperature in your house. This will force you to use your air-conditioning and other cooling systems frequently.
Heat can damage roof shingles. Too much heat in the attic will also promote faster deterioration of your roofing insulation system. With damaged insulation and roofing, your expenses on roof repairs could go up.
Important Factors to Consider When Installing Roof Ventilation
Building regulations require homeowners to install roof ventilation. So it is important to understand these regulations so you can properly install your roof vent system.
It is also best to install different types of roof vents so you can have a more efficient and effective roof vent system. Ridge and Soffit vents work together in regulating the temperature in the attic. And if you are living in a windy area, the installation of air-powered turbine vent is recommended.