Choose The Proper Roof Ventilation To Protect Your Attic
The primary purpose of our home is to shelter us, particularly from the elements of nature. However, new problems arise as we protect ourselves from insects, rain, and the cold. Air is trapped inside, becoming stagnant and unhealthy, which is precisely why modern houses must have ventilation systems installed.
Our homes are not just to protect ourselves but our possessions; that is why there is no better place to store our old family heirlooms than the attic. Because attics are easy to access, we can keep things out of the way of daily home traffic. Unfortunately, this also means air circulation is typically poorer – the perfect breeding ground for mildew, mold, or worse.
You will need to consider several things when choosing to improve your attic ventilation and air circulation for your Jacksonville home. Nevertheless, with the information below and advice from the best Jacksonville roofing contractor, you will keep your roof, attic, and everything you store there safe.
How Roof Ventilation Works
Proper air circulation allows pollutants and moisture to exit, letting fresher and drier airflow in balanced indoor conditions. Modern roof ventilation will have both intake and exhaust vents installed.
Exhaust vents are often at the top of the roof, as hot air will rise and exit through the vent, while cooler air can flow in from an intake vent at a lower point. Some options are better suited for certain types of roofs, so be sure to consult first.
There are two main types of air circulation systems: natural and mechanical. In simple terms, natural vents rely on normal airflow, while mechanical ones employ a power source to work. While this could make you think natural methods are better, this will depend on the climate you live in, so be sure to consult a roofing contractor before deciding.
Types of Residential Attic Exhaust Vents
1. Ridge Vent
Ridge vents consist of a single continuous vent at the top of the slope covering the entire roof. Not only does it distribute the air circulation evenly, but this is also the least visible type of vent, which helps preserve your aesthetics. The only drawback is the cost, as these are also some of the most expensive types of vents upfront.
2. Off-ridge and Box Vents
For houses with hipped roofs, off-ridge vents are better. These rectangular vents are installed near the top of the ridge, reaching up to 4 feet in length. However, they are much more situational, as their size and positioning mean they are not as effective as ridge vents for open attics.
Box vents are smaller, square vents installed in holes cut in the roof like off-ridge vents. Their smaller size allows a more strategic placement to ventilate critical areas; said size limits their effectiveness, making them better suited for smaller areas.
3. Cupola Vents
They are often mistaken for chimneys, consisting of a small tower installed at the top of the ridge. Cupolas serve a dual purpose, allowing air circulation and letting sunlight in, which can help prevent mildew. While quite appealing, they remain an expensive choice upwards of $1,000. Another drawback is that such a large opening can make a perfect entry point for pests.
4. Powered Vents
In essence, these are electric fans that will pull stale air out of the room. Being much more potent than natural options, but with higher upfront and operating costs, both in electricity and maintenance. Depending on your roof structure, a roofing contractor might end up charging more for wiring.
Solar-powered alternatives do exist, mitigating electricity costs, but will need continuous sunlight to be cost-effective, as well as being even more expensive than their hardwired counterparts.
5. Wind turbines
These “whirlybirds” operate similarly to windmills, as these affordable and reliable vents will pull stale air out by relying on wind power. These are better suited for areas with consistent wind speeds of at least 5mph.
The importance of proper air circulation
If you do not have proper air circulation, any pollutants you emit from your daily life, like the CO2 you exhale, will not exit the enclosed space, building up into an environment that can cause long-term health problems. In addition, moisture is more harmful to materials, rotting away anything you have stored or worse, the walls and roofs themselves; leading to damages to your home.
In warmer, more humid climates, like Florida, a house with a proper vent system will be far more resistant to mildew and mold infestations, significantly prolonging the lifespan of your roofs and walls. Unfortunately, these infestations can be very dangerous to people and extremely expensive to remove once they set in.
Finally, better air circulation and less stale air also mean less chance for viruses and bacteria to remain in your home. Combined with regular cleaning and maintenance, both you and your home will stay in their best health for many years.
