We're continuing our post about how poorly ventilated attics cause building headaches and pocket-book aches. If you wish to read the article about how heat build-up in an attic can cause problems, please click on this link: How Heat Build Up in Attic Causes Problems.
LOOKING AHEAD TO COLD WEATHER, SNOW, AND ICE
Not only does a poorly ventilated roof cause potential structural problems in the roofing system, it also causes additional expenses that can possibly be avoided.
POOR VENTILATION CAN CAUSE STRUCTURAL DAMAGE TO YOUR HOME
Did you know that your roof even needs ventilation in the winter time? It does! Excess moisture can build up in an improperly ventilated roof, condense and fall. How does this happen? It's simple, once you think about it. In the winter time, certain household appliances, vapors from cooking steam, moisture from baths and showers, and other household activities can cause improperly ventilated attics to collect moisture. This MOISTURE CLINGS TO THE UNDERSIDE OF YOUR ROOF. Then, it condenses and falls, resulting in potential problems. The problems include:
- Wet and inefficient attic insulation
- Warped roof decking
- Buckled shingles and felt
- Growth of Mildew in the attic
- Rotting of your wood frame
All of these are potentially expensive problems! But - wait - there's more! Have you heard the term "ICE DAMS"?
ICE DAMS FROM MELTING SNOW AND ICE
Proper ventilation of your roof can reduce the amount of initial melting of the snow and/or ice on your roof. This reduces the possibilities that ice dams would form. How do ice dams form? During the winter season, water from ice and show on the roof melts and runs down the deck to the cooler eaves. This run-off can then re-freeze, creating what is called an "Ice Dam". This solid ice can force water back up under the shingles, causing your roof to leak into your home's ceiling and walls. The results: a potential loss of thousands of dollars.
INSPECTION IS QUICK AND FREE
We hate to see this happen to building owners! Especially when the solution is so cost-effective. Call us for a free inspection of your roof's ventilation system. We can check to make sure that your attic is properly protected.