The Effects of Improper Attic Ventilation

While improper attic ventilation and roof ventilation may appear insignificant in the grand scheme of things, it can actually end up costing you quite a bit of money.

Here are some tips from Muth & Company Roofing on what can happen if ventilation problems aren’t taken care of, and why adequate ventilation is so important in the first place.

Consequences of Ignoring Improper Attic Ventilation 

Do you have unusually high energy bills? Improper attic ventilation is probably the culprit.

The main costs of improper attic ventilation come in the form of high energy costs and pricey roof repairs. It can cause a variety of problems.

Deterioration of roofing materials

When warm, moist air produced by daily household activities meets cooler air in the attic during winter months, condensation forms. Condensation is murder on your roof. Not only can it cause roof decking and shingles to break down, it can also deteriorate the underlying roof supports.

Ice dams

In the winter, heat escaping from poorly insulated and ventilated roofing will melt any snow that is on your roof. The resulting meltwater then travels down to the edge of your roof and refreezes there, where it’s colder.

As this process repeats itself, the ice builds up and creates a dam, causing water to back up under shingles and decking. This leads to moisture damage to the shingles, underlayment, insulation, drywall, paint and any valuable belongings inside that got in the way.

Mold buildup

Condensation can cause another problem as well: mold. Warm air and excessive moisture make the perfect breeding ground for mold, which will eventually get into your ventilation system. Once there, it can cause a host of health issues, including allergies and asthma.

Extreme heat

When your roof is not properly ventilated, your attic becomes an oven in the spring and summer. The heat that rises up from the interior of your home, combined with the heat generated from the sun shining down on your roof, is trapped with no way to escape.

Ultimately the heat leaks back into your home, putting a strain on your air conditioner and causing energy bills to skyrocket.

Contact Muth & Company Today

If you think your attic may have ventilation problems, give Muth & Company a call at (614) 682-3060. We will do a full inspection and make sure your roof is ready for any weather.

Need the best roofing available in Columbus, OH, and surrounding communities? We’re the roofer who wants to earn your business. Call Muth & Company Roofing today at (614) 882-0900 for a FREE estimate, or fill out our contact form. We serve Columbus, Westerville, Delaware, Worthington, Dublin, Bexley, Gahanna, New Albany and many other surrounding Central Ohio cities.