Roof ventilation is important because it achieves a balance between air flowing in and flowing out of your home. This can prevent moisture and heat from building up in your attic. Inadequate ventilation can lead to indoor air quality issues, moisture damage, and HVAC strain. Looking for the subtle signs of roof ventilation problems allows for prompt professional attention.
Moisture Damage
Poor roof ventilation can prevent a healthy exchange of air, leading to high levels of humidity. You may notice mildew growing in your attic or water stains forming along joists or sheathing. Your attic may also smell stuffy or stale. Moisture can cause the wood structure of your home to rot, which compromises structural integrity.
Damage to Shingles
Shingles can curl or start to loosen from exposure to heat from an attic. This heat softens materials on their underside, leading to a breakdown in sealants and structural integrity. You may be able to spot this damage from ground level. However, a yearly inspection of your roof is ideal for spotting subtle signs of problems.
High Attic Temperatures
Heat naturally rises, so most homeowners find that the upper levels of their residences feel warmer in the summer. However, your attic shouldn’t get so hot that you can’t go up there. The heat should be able to escape with adequate ventilation.
Abnormally High Energy Bills
If ventilation is an issue, your HVAC system may need to work harder to keep up with your temperature demands. This can cause equipment efficiency to decrease and bills to steadily rise. Homes in warm climates may see more frequent issues with AC equipment, leading to ongoing repair costs. Also, pay attention to frequent cycling, which often indicates system strain.
Accumulation of Particulate Matter
Look around your soffit vents for lines of debris or particulate matter. If buildup is present, it can prevent air from being able to flow freely. This can impact temperature, humidity, and air quality.
Sagging Roof Deck
If your roof decking is experiencing a high saturation of moisture, this can cause sagging. Rigidity can decrease when ventilation isn’t sufficient. This problem can impact the structural integrity of your roof, putting your home at risk of damage, pest infestations, and indoor air quality problems. Fixing your ventilation issues can prevent further damage. However, you may need to schedule professional repairs to your decking.
Protect your home and family by looking for subtle signs that indicate roof ventilation issues. Contact us at Overson Roofing in Phoenix, AZ for more information on attic ventilation support.