The roof comprises different components that work together to enhance roof efficiency and protect the roof. Examples are roof vents, which many people do not notice but serve critical functions. Below is an overview of roof vents.
Benefits of Roof Vents
Roof vents perform different functions. Below are some of the most critical.
Temperature Control and Comfort
Roof vents control temperature by getting stale air out of the house and admitting fresh air. The temperature fluctuations would be wide, and your house would be uncomfortable without the vents. For example, your daytime temperatures can be high, and your nighttime temperatures can be low if you don't have roof vents to help regulate the temperature.
Energy Efficiency
Roof vents improve heating and cooling energy efficiency. For example, during the summer, excessive heat can build up in the attic if you don't have roof vents. The heat buildup will overwork the AC and cause it to draw more energy than usual. Roof vents allow the heat and moisture to escape and the AC to operate optimally.
Roof Protection
Roof vents also protect the roof from multiple forms of damage. For example, roof vents:
- Allow moist air to escape the house. The moisture would otherwise collect, condense, and damage different house structures, including roof insulation.
- Reduce the risk of ice dams on the roof by helping maintain even temperatures across the roof.
- Reduces temperature-related damage to the roof; wide temperature fluctuations (common without roof vents) increase the risk of thermal roof damage.
In the end, ventilation increases the roof's lifespan and reduces the damage frequency.
Types of Roof Vents
Roof vents are available in two main forms.
1. Exhaust
Air expands and becomes less dense as its temperature rises. The reduced density allows hot air to rise into the attic. Exhaust vents allow stale and hot air to escape the house.
2. Intake
Intake ventilation admits cool, fresh air from the outside. The intake vents help push hot air upwards since cool air is denser than hot air. Thus, you need both intake and exhaust vents to enjoy the full benefits of roof ventilation.
As you can see, you must maintain your roof vents just like other parts of the roof. For example, you should always ensure that nothing blocks the vents. Pests, snow, and windblown debris are some of the things that can block roof vents. You should also repair damaged vents as soon as possible. Contact a roofing service such as Bill's Roof Repair, Inc. for maintenance and repair of your roof vents.
