Ventilation is an important component of the efficiency of your home. Soffit and ridge vents allow an exchange of positive and negative air. When there is not proper exchange – other components of the home begin to suffer.
Roof coverings (shingles) have small granules that are adhered to a tar like substance that help protect your sheathing below from sun, snow, ice damage. These components are part of a system to keep you warm and dry in the winter months and cool in the summer months. The shingles keep that sheathing dry from moisture infiltration, which can occur from rain, snow, and ice. The loss of those granules is a natural part of the aging of your roof, however premature loss can be avoided with proper ventilation. When an attic space does not have the proper exchange of air, heat during the summer months rises to such temperatures that the tar like substance that holds those granules together blisters up and the granules begin to fall off and roll into your gutters (if you have them). Basically the shingles are being “cooked” from the excessive heat of the sun and those temperatures beneath the shingles in the attic, which can reach temperatures of in excess of 145 degrees on a 95-degree day. During the winter months, improper ventilation can cause excessive condensation build up which can then lead to mold, ice dams which will undoubtedly work their way under the shingles and cause leaks.
Another negative repercussion of improper ventilation is additional strain on your HVAC system in attempting to cool those spaces beneath this very hot attic. Proper insulation also plays a very important part in your homes efficiency.
Often we see homes with gable end vents and nothing more. We may see a home with a turbine or two atop the roof – but without soffit venting – the proper draw from the outside air to push the inside air out is not created. (That positive and negative air I mentioned earlier). Ideally, soffit venting with a ridge vent system can create enough of a draw to allow that proper exchange of air reducing the stress of the various components of your home.
If you have no idea what is in your attic as far as insulation, ventilation, roof coverings, etc., give us a call to schedule your home inspection and allow us to assist in educating you as to the proper care and maintenance of your home. Call Right Now To Schedule: Lake of Ozarks – (573) 363-5511 or Springfield – (417) 893-0770