People don’t often consider the importance of proper attic ventilation, because they reason among themselves that nobody ever goes up there. Venting is as valuable for the life of your home as breathing fresh air is for all the rooms inside of it. Without proper venting, moisture can get trapped in the attic and cling to the metal up there, causing it to rust much faster. All the nails, screws and braces can literally rust to the point that the roof will become unstable in high winds. Avoiding this moisture is more than just a good idea; it is required to maintain the integrity of the roof.
This moisture will also collect and drip into the insulation, causing mold, and attracting some very unwelcome wild life. The correct venting will also allow the temperatures to remain fairly stable throughout the year, so that the heat doesn’t build up and age your roof before its natural time. Venting is more than just a nice element to have; it is also a requirement for most new roofing these days in order to keep the warranty in effect.
Poorly vented attic spaces can lead to energy losses; ice dams; mold; rot, and a host of unwelcome problems that will only get worse if left unattended. Keeping your attic space at an even temperature with proper ventilation will avoid many seasonal issues that continually take their toll on your roof.
In the winter, the heat from your house will collide with the cold air outside and cause ice to form in your gutters and flashing. When the attic is properly vented, this warm air escapes, balancing the combination of warm and cold air so that it is harder for ice to form. In the summer time, vents will allow the roof deck to cool down and avoid getting so hot that the materials will buckle. This will also help to prolong the life of your roof, and help to make the most of your energy dollars. This hot air buildup will also strain the property’s cooling system, and make it harder to keep your living spaces at a comfortable level.
When you are ready to repair or replace your Minneapolis roof, make sure you speak with the experts first. Iron River Construction will be able to take care of all these needs, and more with just one phone call. 952-442-1762
