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Continued from ventilation page 1
Material Deterioration
Roofing materials are exposed to extreme elements on the outside. Manufacturers of the materials have accounted for the elements and constructed the materials accordingly. Extreme elements from under the materials, the attic, will not only break the materials down prematurely, but could also void the warranty from the manufacturer
The pictures above show damage caused by ice build up on the eaves. |
Optimum Ventilation
Proper ventilation of a roof is obviously crucial. There are a numerous types of attic vents on the market, some better than others. What is important is the components of the ventilation system. Without the proper components, the best vents on the market will be ineffective. Following is a break down, simplified, explaining the workings and components of proper ventilation.
Optimum ventilation systems consist of two types of vents.
1. Intake vents, located at the underside edge of the roof, known as the eaves. These vents allow fresh air to flow in the attic.
2. Exhaust vents located near the ridge (top crest) or directly on the ridge line of the roof, depending on the vent type. These allow the air to leave the attic.
Both Intake and Exhaust vents MUST be in place, and unobstructed in order for the system to work. Properly implemented, the system uses the natural forces of wind pressure and thermal effect, referred to as the "Stack Effect" to circulate and exhaust the air in the attic. The rule of thumb is that properly vented attic air should never be more than 15 degrees hotter than the outside air. A temperature difference of greater than 15 degrees is an indication of additional heat sources, and/or an indication of poor attic ventilation.
As illustrated in the drawing above, the desired circulation of the air is along the bottom of the sheeting. Therefore the optimum system will draw air into the attic from the eaves of the roof through soffit vents. Circulate the air, removing condensation and hot air up the entire length of the sheeting, and out through the top, or ridge of the roof.
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Vent Types
There are many different types of roof vents on the market today. Following is a brief example and explanation on different type vents.
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Turbine Vent
Also called a Rotary Vent, has a free spinning top allowing air to exhaust. While this vent is effected by wind, it is not necessary for the wind to blow for ventilation to occur. This is a very good, high profile vent
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Low Profile ⇒
Also referred to by too many names to list on this page. Low profile vents are typically inexpensive and come in a variety of materials construction, copper, steel, plastic, etc.
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Tombstone Vent
Typically installed on steep pitched roofs, this is a very decorative and effective vent.
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Power Vent
Power vents use electricity and are controlled by a thermostat. In some cases, unique roof designs need a power vent for adiquate ventilation. We will install these vent upon request, but are hesitant to suggest them, due to the short life expectancy(5 years on average), comparitively speaking.
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