Different Venting Options for Your Roof

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DATE

April 19, 2017

CATEGORY

Roof Components

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Different Venting Options for Your Roof

Are you aware of the important role that ventilation plays in the overall health of the roof? Roof ventilation helps to circulate fresh air throughout the attic, preventing moisture from collecting. Lack of proper ventilation leads to issues such as mold accumulation that can shorten the lifespan of your roof.

There are three main types of roof vents:

Static Vent

Static vents are the most basic and cost-effective form of ventilation for your roof. They are also the simplest design with no moving parts. This popular form of roof ventilation resembles a mushroom cap and can vary in size based on the roof they are being used on.

Turbine Vent

Following the static vent is the turbine vent. These vents create suction by rotating in the wind. This suction works to pull hot air and moisture from the attic.

Power Vent

Although similar to static vents, power vents differ as they run on electricity and do not require natural wind to function. This model can incorporate a thermostat that activates the fan when the attic reaches a certain temperature. Since power vents run on electricity, they need an electrician to connect it to the house’s electrical panel.

 Importance of Roof Ventilation

The main purpose of roof ventilation is to provide a release of warm air in the attic. This works to prevent numerous issues such as:

  • Accumulation of mold: If moisture collects in the attic, this can lead to mold developing, rotting your roof from the inside. 
  • Deformation of roofing shingles: Immense amounts of heat directly under your roof can cause your roof shingles to deteriorate faster than intended, shortening the life of your roof. 
  • Undesirable heat in the house: Proper roof ventilation also prevents your attic from getting really hot. This heat could cause the temperature in your house to rise, meaning your air conditioning has to work harder to cool you house.