Signs Of Poor Roof Ventilation
Poor roof ventilation may not seem like a big problem, but it can result in many issues. You should call a residential roofing expert the moment you notice ventilation problems on your roof. Here are some of the signs of poor roof ventilation.
High Energy Bills
When your roof isn't well ventilated, there's no exit for indoor heat accumulating in your home. This is problematic during warm months because hot air builds up in your attic during the day. When your roof is in good condition, hot indoor air should exit through the attic.
When the interior of your home is hotter than usual, your HVAC system is forced to work harder. Furthermore, moisture may drip down on your insulation and reduce its efficiency. Both of these conditions will increase your energy costs.
Decay
If you notice decay in your attic or under your roof, then there's a ventilation problem. Some signs of decay include weak adhesives, mold, and rust. These conditions arise when hot air combines with humidity because of poor airflow.
An accumulation of heat and moisture in your roof deck leads to water damage making your roof vulnerable to decay. High moisture levels can promote the development of mildew and mold. These fungi don't only damage the structure of your roof, but they also pose health risks to people who are sensitive to allergens. Increased moisture corrodes materials like fixtures, electric boxes, and nails, causing rust to form on these materials. At the first sign of decay, you should call residential roofing services.
Ice Dams
Ice dams are deposits of snow or ice along your roof's edge. These dams form because of a constant melting and freezing process, a situation arising due to inadequate ventilation. If you notice big icy areas in your home, it means there's something wrong with your home's ventilation.
When the snow melts, the water flows down your roof to the gutter. In the gutter, the water freezes, causing an overflow. This results in an ice dam. If not addressed, ice dams can damage the interior of your house. The melting/freezing cycle can cause damage to your ceilings, walls, and other structures of your house.
The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends you check your roof twice annually. The best times to schedule roof inspections is during the fall and spring season. This is the time when the weather is mild and most suitable for identifying problems. One of the things residential roofing services will do during a routine inspection is to identify and rectify poor ventilation issues.
Reach out to a residential roofer near you to learn more.
