Why Attic Ventilation Is Important In Your Port Orchard, WA Home
What Attic Ventilation Can Do To Make Your Home Safer
Attic ventilation in Port Orchard, WA is a critical, if not often overlooked, aspect of maintenance for homes. When neglecting your attic ventilation, it can impact several aspects of your home, such as energy efficiency and comfort. While there are various ways in which to get attic ventilation for your home, if not done properly, it can lead to severe issues down the line.
From costly repairs to wood rot and mold, there are a lot of potential downsides to not having proper attic ventilation. In this guide, we’ll explore why attic ventilation is so important for your home and what you should do to ensure your home has it.
What Is Attic Ventilation?
Attic ventilation is the process of generating airflow through your attic space. This allows cooler air to enter from outside while hot, stale air escapes from your home. When your attic is properly ventilated, moisture doesn’t build up, and your home’s insulation becomes more efficient.
Dangers Of Improper Attic Ventilation
While some homeowners overlook the importance of attic ventilation, not completing this vital service can lead to significant dangers. Poor ventilation can pose risks to your overall health and the longevity of your home.
One of the most notable dangers of improper attic ventilation in your home is the accumulation of heat. During warm periods of the year, a lack of ventilation makes it difficult to keep your home cool. This can put significant strain on your HVAC system and increase your energy bills.
Aging Of Your Roof
Another danger of improper attic ventilation is the premature aging of your roof. The build-up of moisture in your attic can cause advanced aging of your roofing materials, particularly sheathing and shingles. This wear and tear can easily lead to the structural integrity of your roof weathering away and require you to make costly repairs.
A Breeding Ground For Mold And Mildew
Of course, one of the most common problems caused by poor ventilation is the presence of moisture. When the air becomes stagnant and trapped, condensation builds. This creates an environment that leads to mold and mildew growth in your attic.
Mold and mildew lead to spores that can trigger allergies and health issues. In addition to the health of your home’s occupants, mold also has the potential to damage your home through rotting wood and the destruction of your insulation.
While some homeowners believe a lack of attic ventilation merely leads to discomfort, the downsides are significant. The longer a home goes without being insulated, the more damage it can cause.
Signs Your Home Lacks Proper Attic Ventilation
There are several indicators that can show you when your home lacks proper attic ventilation. The first sign there is an issue that comes with high energy bills and excessive heat in your home during warm summer months. If the heat feels particularly stifling, there is a high chance that there may be something wrong with your home’s ventilation.
Another sign is the presence of mold or mildew growth in your home. Ways you can identify this growth is through a musty odor or visible signs of growth on any surface. If you notice excess moisture in your attic, the potential for mold or mildew is high.
Other visible signs of your home lacking ventilation are damage to your roof or insulation. Check to see if your insulation is damp or discolored. These are both signs of water infiltration, which often stems from poor ventilation. You can also check to see if your roof has any visible damage in the form of curling or cracked shingles.
Finally, look for interior water stains on your walls or ceilings. These stains are clear signs of water leakage and damage in your home. Not only does the presence of these stains show the potential lack of attic ventilation, but it’s also a clear sign your home needs repairs from water damage.
If you notice any of these signs, contact a roofing professional immediately to help identify the issues with your ventilation system and the best way to treat them.
Call RoofSmart For Attic Ventilation Service
And Save Your Port Orchard, WA Home
At RoofSmart, we’ve installed countless attic ventilation systems in homes all over the Kitsap County Area. One of the biggest causes of poor ventilation is improper installation done by inexperienced roofers. If you’re noticing a problem with your ventilation, work with a team that knows how to handle the job, give the best options for repairs, and make your home safe and comfortable again. Call us for a free quote today.
