At first glance, the roof of a home appears as if it’s made up of only the outermost layers that is visible to the naked eye (i.e., the shingles). But did you know that a home’s roof is actually a system with interrelated parts and structures and that those structures must work together in order to have a successful roof?

Believe it or not, if one component of a roofing system be it the flashing, the ventilation, or the insulation breaks down, then the entire roof itself becomes vulnerable to failing over time.

One of the essential components of a roof is the ventilation system, which is basically the part responsible for keeping a constant and even exchange of air in order to reduce the accumulation of moisture and heat. An efficient and properly maintained ventilation system even has the ability to extend the lifespan of your roof!

But what exactly is the roof’s ventilation system and how does it work to help the circulation of air?

What is the ventilation system made up of?

Roof ventilation is comprised of the various accessories and roofing components which are designed to help circulate air, and some of those parts include: intake and exhale vents, the ridge vents, fans, as well as other vents in the attic and house.

Why is ventilation a necessary component for a roofing system?

The constant movement of air is key when it comes to making sure that an accumulation of water doesn’t turn into a leak or other major issue. Moreover, a properly installed and maintained ventilation system helps to promote the longevity of the roofing structure by eliminating excess heat and moisture that can cause serious damage to your home.

How does ventilation affect the way your home’s HVAC system works?

The improper, or complete lack of airflow altogether is one of the main ways residential heating and cooling systems can be affected by a roof’s ventilation, which is another reason why a proper roof ventilation system is absolutely necessary. Many homeowners are often surprised when they learn that their roof’s ventilation even influences how effectively their heating and air conditioning units operate.

What are some indications that your ventilation system may be experiencing problems?

Just as your roof will show indications of aging and damage that can be visible upon inspection, so too does ventilation show signs that will indicate the presence of a problem to you. Similarly, there are ways to tell if your roof and home are not receiving enough circulation, and some of those signs include:

  • Excessively hot temperatures in your attic during the summer season
  • The appearance of mold growth
  • Frost appearing on the rafters, sheathing, or other structures in the attic
  • Water coming from the head of the nail (not to be confused with a roof leak, necessarily)

If you notice any of these signs or any indications of physical damage to your roof, be sure to call your professional roofing contractor for an immediate evaluation, as ventilation problems that go unattended for a long period of time tend to result in very expensive house calls!