Your home’s roofing system is under constant attack from the outside, with wind, rain, sun and hail all taking a toll and shortening its lifespan. While there’s not much you can do about the weather (other than protecting against it), there is something you can do about heat and moisture that attack your roof from the inside. A professional roofing contractor can help you prevent these conditions with proper ventilation.

Effects of Moisture and Heat Buildup

Heat and moisture buildup in the attic can occur due to the simple fact that heat rises. Warm air containing moisture from daily baths, cooking and laundry tasks in the rooms below rises through the attic to the roof, where it meets colder air from the outside and forms condensation This can lead to damaged wood and even shingles; it can also cause the insulation to become less effective.

Over time, it can cause rot in the rafters and sheathing (boards attached to roof rafters). This type of structural damage may require extensive repairs. If you are considering major renovations or remodeling, your roofing contractor can advise you to think twice about rearranging, removing or blocking roof ventilation sources, such as louvers and vents in ridge and soffit areas.

Ventilation and Insulation

Along with proper insulation, which includes a vapor barrier beneath the insulation, the solution to reducing moisture in the attic is ventilation. Industry standards are to allow one square foot of venting for every 150 square feet of flooring in the attic, with vents installed at the eaves and ridge. The idea is to provide enough venting to allow air to flow freely in and out of the attic.

Allied Remodeling of Central MD, Inc. is your roofing contractor. We can help you get the most out of your roof by ensuring proper attic ventilation. Call us today at 410-413-7663 to schedule an inspection.