Common Problems Caused By Poor Roof Ventilation

If you're like most homeowners, you probably don't think much about how your roofing system works.  You just know its main function is to protect your home and everything in it from the various weather elements. The ventilation system of the roof is just as important as the exterior surface of the roof.  Adequate ventilation will pull fresh air in and push out heat and moisture, which will reduce the risk of future problems and help extend the life of the roof.  Poor roof ventilation, on the other hand, will cause a wide range of expensive problems:

Mold and Mildew: When heat and moisture get trapped in the attic because of poor ventilation, mold and mildew will grow.  This toxic mold can cause respiratory problems for anyone living in the home.

Ice Dams: When warm air is trapped in the attic, it can cause snow to melt on the roof.  As it drips down, it then re-freezes at the edge of the roof, causing an ice dam.  This dam will prevent water from properly running off the roof and into the gutter system, leading to wood rot, shingle damage, and leaks.

Rust: Any metal components that are exposed to moisture and humidity will rust.  Over time, the rust can cause critical fasteners to crumble or damage plumbing or venting components.

Deterioration: Excessive moisture can seep into the roof decking, causing it to rot or become spongy, which can then lead to sagging and warping. This moisture can also affect other parts of the roof including the shingles, which are the first line of defense to the elements. 

Air Conditioner Problems: When your air conditioner has to work harder and longer to cool your home because of the excessive heat in the attic, it will likely need to be repaired more often or replaced much sooner. Your energy costs will also rise.

A well-ventilated attic is key to keeping your roof in good condition. Without proper ventilation, the roof decking can become damaged, the shingles can deteriorate, and your air conditioning unit will have to work harder. All of these problems can lead to costly repairs down the road. Make sure your attic is properly ventilated to avoid these issues! 

The best way to do this is to call an experienced roofing company or contractor to come out and do a complete roof inspection.  They'll be able to spot any current issues, update you on the state of your roof's ventilation, and provide recommendations for what needs to happen next if you do in fact have poor ventilation.   

At Nashville Roofers, we've been dealing with roofing systems and ventilation for 20 years.  We'll give you an honest assessment of the condition of your roofing and ventilation systems, and help you correct any issues if necessary.  Call us today at 615-560-9285 or fill out our contact form and we will get back with you as soon as possible.