When you are installing a new roof, it is important that you have properly installed ridge vents and roof ventilation in order to extend the life of your roof, and to maximize your investment. Read more below to learn about why these parts of a roof are important, and why they will help maintain the value of your home, as well as your comfort, throughout the useful life of your roof.
If you are looking for a professional, experienced team of roofing contractors in Indianapolis, look no further than Jackson Contracting Inc. We will be happy to work with you on any roof repairs, upgrades, snow and ice removal, or any other roofing needs that you may have. Contact us today about how we can best work together, and read more below about a few important parts of a properly-functioning roof.
Why Ventilate a Roof?
Your roof is exposed to the sun for extended periods of time, at the same time it keeps out rain, ice, moisture, and debris. However, when your roof heats up it can draw in moisture that gets trapped in the humid air and can cause serious damage to your attic, the structure of your roof, and the longevity of your investment.
Roof vents solve this problem by allowing air to pass in and out, maintaining a consistent temperature without trapping damaging moisture underneath your shingles. There are a variety of options available to ventilate your roof in Indianapolis, but the ridge vent is an effective and attractive option that is a great choice for most roof installations.
Roof Ventilation Options
Box Vents
Box vents are passive vents that are placed across your roof and allow for air to pass in and out.
Turbines
Turbines are metal, powerless fans that sit on top of your roof and spin in the wind. When there is enough wind to turn them they can be very effective, but if there is no wind or the parts are worn then they are just unattractive and ineffective.
Power Vents
A power vent is a low-profile box vent that has a powered fan to continuously exchange air under your roof. This is a great option for homeowners who want power directed to their ventilation system when the thermostat reaches certain humidity or temperature readings.f
Cupola Vents
A cupola vent is an aesthetically-pleasing and interesting option for a roof installation, but is more costly and may require more maintenance over the lifetime of the roof. You may want to speak with the Permit Office before focusing on this option, to be sure that it is allowed in your zoning.
Soffit Vents
Soffit vents are highly effective options for ventilating a roof, and are often used in tandem with a ridge vent to allow for a complete air exchange from the eaves all the way to the ridge of the roof. Soffit vents can be a great option to add if you have other vents in place already, but would like to increase your air exchange.
What Is a Ridge Vent?
A roof ridge vent is a very simple, but very important detail in most modern homes that will extend the life of your roof, maintain the structural integrity of your roof frame, and will keep your attic dry and regulated. They operate by allowing air to circulate out of your rafters and attic, instead of trapping hot and moist air in your attic like a traditional, non-vented roof would. By reducing the fluctuations of moisture and heat, it extends the life of your roof by preventing your shingles from drying and cracking, deterioration of your weather barriers, or rot in the plywood panels that make up the structural surface of your roof.
When we install a new roof, we typically suggest installing a ridge vent during the job to ensure that your new roof stays in working condition for as long as possible. Proper ventilation is an essential part of long-term upkeep of a roof, and it is important that you ensure your roof ventilation is functioning as it should throughout the entire life of your roof. Contact us today to speak with a professional about a variety of ventilation options, the pros and cons of each as they pertain to your home and aesthetic options, and how we can provide the ventilation you need on the budget you want.