Although having a new roof installed or properly maintaining an existing roof is important to preventing moisture damage and maintaining your home’s climate, attic or roof ventilation is also important. Ventilation allows air to come in and out of your attic space and is necessary to keep your roof at an even temperature and reduce the chance of water damage. Choosing the right attic ventilation can enhance your roofs performance and reduce energy costs.
Choosing The Right Type Of Ventilation
Proper ventilation for your roof and attic requires both intake and exhaust vents to allow air to flow in and out of the attic space. For winter months, this can keep moisture at bay. In the summer, it prevents hot air from accumulating in the attic area that can increase cooling costs and make your energy bills soar. There are several different types of attic ventilation that can be used, depending on the type of roof you have, your preference and budget.
– Soffit vents.
Soffit vents use vents under a homes eaves in the soffit. Cooler air comes in under the eaves and leaves through the roof peak vents, both which should be screened to keep out insects.
– Static vents.
Louvered or turbine static vents are placed in rows on the roof itself. These are typically inexpensive but need to be installed properly to ensure that there is no leaking.
– Powered vent units.
Electric, solar or even wind-powered vents can circulate air throughout the attic. Many electric or solar units come with a thermostat that controls when the vents turn on.
– Ridge vents.
Ridge vents are run along roof peaks to allow warm air to rise and flow out at the highest point of the roof.
Choosing the best vent for your roof will depend on your budget and roof type. Although static, louvered and soffit vents tend to be less expensive, they are not necessarily the best choice. Some options include combining two or more of these together to get the best circulation. Powered units offer a more consistent airflow as they have a thermostat to control when more airflow is needed.
Another consideration when creating an attic ventilation system is the amount of vents you will need and where. Too few and you may still see higher than average energy bills and increased moisture. Too many and you run the risk of leaks. A basic rule of thumb is one square foot of ventilation per 300 square feet of attic. The best way to ensure you are getting the correct ventilation for your roof and attic is to call a qualified Fort Worth roofing contractor for an inspection of your ventilation system.
Choosing the right vents for your roof and attic can save you money every month on your cooling or heating bill and help preserve your roof. It is important to consult a Fort Worth roofing expert to ensure that you are keeping your attic and roof cool and dry all year round. Old Pro Roofing will provide an inspection of your ventilation system free of charge.
Fort Worth Roofing Office: 817-929-ROOF (7663)
Dallas Roofing Office: 972-975-ROOF(7663)