Attics are both very useful and inconvenient at the same time. If you wonder how this could be, consider the pros and cons. Attics can provide indispensable storage space, but the things that can be stored in an attic are often limited to boxes and other small items that are light enough to be hoisted overhead. Another negative– yet entirely avoidable– characteristic of attics is extreme heat in the summer and trapped moisture in the winter. Proper ventilation can alleviate both of these environmental issues, but you need to make sure that your vents are installed properly and working together seamlessly for the best results.
WHEN VENTILATION GOES BAD
Attic vents can prevent a handful of costly home repairs, but not if they are used improperly. It is extremely important to have these vents installed correctly, otherwise they can do more harm than good. There are several common mistakes people make when dealing with vents, but you can avoid them by keeping clear of these four problems:
- Unbalanced intake and exhaust installation – There are two types of vents that keep your attic cool and moisture free, they are intake and exhaust. By building a system that is overbalanced with one type of vent or the other, the ventilation system will not function properly.
- Concentrating only on summer heat – If you’ve climbed up into your unventilated attic during the summer, odds are high that you began sweating almost instantly. However, temperatures soaring well over 120 degrees are not the only attic issue you should worry about. The winter months can cause moisture buildup which can be damaging. Attic vents are designed to work all year long and should not be neglected during cooler times.
- Mixing and matching ventilation strategies – Attic vents are successful because of a delicate balance that keeps air flowing in and out, while also protecting the attic from outside weather. There are a few different combinations of vents you can use to draw air in and let it escape, but they are not interchangeable. For example, installing two or more different kinds of exhaust vents can sometimes cause the system to fail and allow wind and rain to enter into the attic.
- Not sealing off attic bypasses – In order for an attic ventilation system to work, the attic must be a contained air system, which means that openings like leaks or cracks that are not intended let in outside air should be sealed or repaired.
CALL A PROFESSIONAL FOR PROPER INSTALLATION
To guarantee that your attic is properly ventilated, call a professional roofer to have your vent system repaired or installed correctly. With the help of an experienced contractor, your attic will become much more efficient at dispelling hot or moist air, effectively lowering your energy bill and preventing water vapor from damaging your home.
Contact Pacific West Roofing about attic ventilation today. Call 503-635-8706 or click here to request an estimate!