Roof Ventilation 101: Basics You Need to Know

Roof ventilation is very useful in all kinds of climates. However, it has to be engineered correctly in order to function at its optimal level and contribute to a more comfortable home. It’s always best to leave the construction of your roof ventilation to qualified experts. But as a homeowner, you should also be aware of how ventilation should work. When an attic or roof assembly is poorly built, you can expect to encounter issues like mold, rot, ice dams and excessive energy losses.

Moss Roofing, a trusted roofing and gutter company in the area, discusses the purpose of roof ventilation and lists five basic rules to keep in mind.

Importance of Roof Venting

The purpose of roof ventilation varies from climate to climate. In colder climates, the main purpose of your ventilation is to keep a cool roof temperature that will prevent ice dams. It’s also supposed to vent any moisture that travels from the conditioned living space to the attic.

In warmer climates, your ventilation should be able to release solar-heated hot air from the attic or roof. This is to help reduce your home’s cooling load and prevent your air conditioner from working too hard.

5 Essential Rules for Roof Venting

If you’re in the process of doing storm damage repair, it might be a good time to check your roof ventilation as well. And for your vented attic to perform well, its design and construction must be carefully planned and executed. Take note of the following reminders when designing your roof ventilation:

1. Ensure the attic floor is sealed completely. Air leaks can lead to significant energy loss and cause ice dams.

2. Bulk up the insulation above the top plate. The amount of insulation in this area should be equal to or greater than the R-value of the wall assembly.

3. Vent the soffit continuously by installing the vent as far to the outside edge of the soffit as possible.

4. Provide sufficient airspace between the back of the roof sheathing and the top of the insulation.

5. Slightly pressurize the attic so that conditioned air won’t be sucked out of the living space.

Moss Roofing provides a comprehensive range of services and we can also assist you with insurance roof claims. Call us at (317) 207-4778 or fill out our contact form to request a free consultation. We offer our services to customers in Indianapolis, IN, and the surrounding areas.