One of the most important parts of your roofing system is your ventilation system. Your ventilation system ensures that hot air is not trapped in your attic. When the sun shines down upon your roof, your roof absorbs the heat that is generated from the UV rays. This is unless you have a “cool roof” that is light colored and reflects the sunlight so that head does not become trapped to the extent that dark roofs do.
Proper ventilation adds to the durability of a roof. Without ventilation, you not only have heat build up, but you also have moisture build up in the attic. When the heat and the moisture combine, the condensation that is produced can cause the sheathing and the rafters to rot. The shingles can also buckle and your insulation will become ineffective. So you need to make sure that your ventilation is not blocked off in any way. This means ridge vents, louvers, or soffit vents are to not be blocked in any way, even in the winter.
Proper attic ventilation protects against structural damage. The life of the material is increased, energy consumption is reduced, and the rooms below the attic are much more comfortable.
Insulation and Ventilation
If you are concerned about your ventilation and even the insulation in your home, a Minnesota roofer can help you address the problems. First of all, a Minnesota roofing contractor can take a look to make sure you have proper insulation in your attic. You should have a clear ventilation system, as well as a layer of insulation on the attic floor to keep the rooms below cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Another thing that you will need in your home if you don’t have it is a vapor retarder. This keeps any moisture inside the house from rising into the attic. Basically, you need enough vented spaces so that air will pass in and out easily. A Minnesota roofing professional will also make sure you have about one inch of space between your roof sheathing and your insulation. They are able to check everything and ensure proper measurements based on the length and the width of your attic. It is recommended that you have at least one square foot of vent area for every 300 square feet of attic floor. The vents should be placed near the ridge or at the eaves.
Energy Saving
When you have your roof inspected by a Minneapolis roofer, you do need to have them tell you whether or not you have proper ventilation. If you don’t, then you want to find out what needs to be done to make sure you do. If you do not have proper ventilation, then you are running the risk of your roof meeting its demise before its time.
Furthermore, the ventilation and insulation combination keeps the air in the living quarters of your home like it is supposed to. You do not want too much heat coming down from the attic during the summer and your cooling costs literally go through the roof. By keeping your air where it belongs, you are cutting down the amount of energy you are using in your home. Not only does this save you money, but you are also doing a favor for the environment.
