If you have a metal roof, you need to keep it clean and free of debris. This is important because the metal roof will last for many years. However, it is important to know what can damage a metal roof. The most common problem with a metal roof is a lack of ventilation. This post will discuss the effects of insufficient ventilation on a metal roof.
Importance of Ventilation
The function of your roofing system hinges on proper attic ventilation. Cool, fresh air can enter the attic at the soffit or leave the areas of the roof. The system exhausts moist air from the attic through exhaust vents. This intake and exhaust of air are very beneficial for preventing problems such as mold and mildew growth and wood rot.
A good place to save energy is the attic. The attic can quickly heat during the warmer months. The rising temperatures force your air conditioner to work harder. By keeping your attic well-ventilated, you can keep a comfortable temperature that doesn’t cause your energy bill to go up. As natural forces of air pressure create a push and pull effect, a balance of intake and exhaust is achieved. Air can only move across the top of the attic if the circulation is restricted.
Effects of Poor Ventilation
Poor roof ventilation can cause problems because of heat and humidity. Every time we run a load of laundry, take a shower or wash dishes, it increases the amount of water in the home and attic.
Following are the common problems that can be caused by trapped moisture and heat:
- Metal rust is an unfortunate but common side-effect of being in the outdoors, especially during the summer months when. Over time, rust can wear out the heads off of nails, causing them to lose their grip on their holes.
- A humid environment is a great place to grow mold. Health problems can be caused by mold in attics.
- When there is too much water on the roof deck, it can cause it to warp, fall between rafters, or feel squishy when walking on. Someone on the roof can be in danger.
- As heat builds in the attic, air conditioners must work harder to keep the air inside the home cool. The unit’s life and energy costs can be reduced by the stress on it.
- The life of the underlayment and shingles can be shortened by excessive heat and humidity. It is possible to see signs of improper roof ventilation.
- At the edge of a roof, trapped warm air can cause ice dams by melting snow on the roof. Water can’t run off the roof if the snow continues to freeze. Water and ice can get back up under the shingles. Adding insulation can help with the melting and freezing process.
- A poorly vented attic can cause frost to form on the windows, similar to how sitting in a cold car can cause frost on the windows. As the attic cools and warms with the day, frost can accumulate on the ceiling.
If you notice any of the signs of poor roof ventilation above, it is time to make some changes to improve it.
Ways to Improve Ventilation
Hire a reliable roofer
It is a good idea for homeowners to contact a roofing company for roof repairs when they realize they have a problem with their roof. Homeowners can fix some of these issues on their own, but that often leads to more problems down the road. The simpler the solutions, the sooner homeowners will seek solutions to roof ventilation problems.
Get a professional roof inspection
You have an accurate picture of the repairs you need after the certified roof inspectors assess your roof. Hire a roofing company to make repairs on your roof.
Verify airflow into and out of your attic is equally proportionate
Intake vents and an exhaust component are necessary for proper ventilation.
Confirm your insulation is not covering any of your vents
If you add insulation to your home, it will help decrease energy costs and make your home more comfortable, but be careful not to cover the vents with insulation.
Add ventilation if needed
Proper ventilation and preservation of your roof can be accomplished with the addition of a ridge vent along your roof length.
Conclusion
A roof is the first line of defense for your home. A roof can keep you safe from the elements, prevent damage from water, and provide protection from the elements. A roof can also provide you with a sense of security and comfort. It is important to maintain your roof so that it will last as long as possible. Roof ventilation is a great way to ensure that your roof is well ventilated. Roof ventilation is the process of allowing air to flow across the top of the roof.
