Attic ventilation might seem like a minor consideration, but when done properly, it can extend the life of your attic and roof structure saving you hundreds of dollars in repair costs. Even a newly built house needs to be inspected due to the air-tightness of today's building procedures.

In the summer, hot, moist air in the attic can warp floor boards and roof sheathing and cause shingles to deteriorate. A hot attic also makes a home more difficult to cool and can result in added energy costs.

In the winter, an overheated attic melts snow and can form ice dams at the roof edge. Water can back up under your shingles, wetting and damaging attic insulation and, eventually, the structure of the roof itself. Ice dams can even cause leaks inside your home, resulting in drywall damage.

Figure 11b illustrates the importance of air-flow through the soffit vents, crucial for proper attic ventilation. If soffit vents are blocked, air cannot be expelled out the top of the roof.

Ridge Ventilation

Ventilation is equally improved with the use of proper ridge vents.

Reduce energy costs. Sleep warmer in winter, cooler in summer.

Proper roof attic ventilation protects your home from damage.

	Reduces moisture that can cause mold, mildew and wood rot
	Helps prevent moisture that can wet insulation and affect its efficiency
	Helps prevent ice buildups and ice damming at the eaves
	Extends the life of your shingles and roof structure
	Helps keep upper floor rooms comfortable and cool during hot summer months

Attic Inspections

An evaluation of the attic ventilation in your home will solve imbalances that cause high heating or cooling costs, including areas of your home that are being damaged (often invisibly) by excessive moisture.

Click here for an attic ventilation inspection.