How Do Roof Vents Work?
In the winter months, roofing companies want to raise as much awareness as possible about the importance of roof ventilation. While vents perform an important function in the summer as well, there is far less risk of damage to the roof, the interior of the attic, and the home in the warmer months.
Roof vents enable air to circulate through the attic, and without that ventilation, there is a risk of moisture build-up in the winter and reduced energy-efficiency in the summer. If you’re concerned about the vents in your roof, get in touch with the roofing contractors at Big Boy’s Construction. We serve the greater Indianapolis area, and are committed to providing the highest level of quality roofing service. Whether you need an inspection, roof repairs, or want to learn more about metal roofing, you can count on us for honest opinions and quality workmanship.
Roof vents allow air to properly and consistently circulate through the attic, keeping your home and attic comfortable year-round. There are several types of vents that can be used, and the strategic placement of these vents is a part of an air intake and exhaust process. Air comes in through one vent and leaves the attic through another. This process lets warm air and moisture escape the attic, preventing a variety of issues that can develop.
Correct roof vent design and installation are essential for the vent system and air intake and exhaust process to work. How many roof vents are needed and their placement depends on the square footage of the attic. The good news is that homeowners don’t need to know the specifics of how many vents are needed or where to put them. With a professional roofing contractor, you can trust that vents will be installed correctly so the roof and vent system functions properly and efficiently.
Four Main Types of Roof Vents
Soffit Vents
These vents are installed in the roof soffits, which is the underside of the roof where the roof extends past the home’s siding. Soffit vents allow air to flow into the attic and are paired with ridge vents to create a ventilation system.
Ridge Vents
These are installed at the peak of the roof, or ridge. Ridge vents are completely covered by roofing shingles to prevent water from getting into the attic. Because these vents are located at the top of the roof, this is where warm air escapes the attic. The soffit and ridge vent combination is one of the most common types of ventilation systems.
Gable Intake Vents
These vents are installed at the top of the home’s gables, which is a triangular section of the home’s siding just below a roof peak. They are typically covered with a screen to prevent insects from getting inside. Gable vents need to be paired with ridge vents.
Powered Vents
Typically used for larger buildings or commercial spaces, powered vents are electric fans installed into the gables of the attic. Powered vents are one of the more effective systems, but they require electricity to run.
While there are several issues that can occur when a roof isn’t properly ventilated, there are two main concerns that homeowners should be aware of:
- Moisture Build-Up: In the winter, when warm air from your home reaches the attic, if there isn’t a way for the air to escape, it can cause moisture to build up. This can cause mold to develop, damage the insulation, and can lead to ice dams if there is a snowfall.
- Increased Energy Use: In the summer, heat from the sun can get trapped inside the attic without proper ventilation. This can lead to your air conditioning working overtime, increasing your utility costs.
