Should You Replace Your Ventilation System During Roof Replacement?
Your roof is not going to last forever, since there will come a time where it needs to be replaced. However, tearing off the old roof gives you the opportunity to make some upgrades that will help your next roof last as long as possible. Here is what you need to know about having a roofing contractor replace your ventilation system along with your roofing materials.
Why Proper Ventilation Is Necessary
You may be wondering why your roof even needs ventilation, since you don't exactly spend time in your attic. However, a properly working ventilation system is a key part of keeping your roof and home in good condition. Cool air enters the home from the bottom of your roof through an intake vent, it then flows through your roof and leaves through exhaust vents located at the top of the roof. This keeps air flowing through the roof, allows all of the hot air escape, and prevents your attic from getting too hot.
Why Replace Your Intake Vent
You'll want to replace any intake vents at the time of new roof replacement because that's when it is easiest to do so. Your home likely has soffit vents, which are located underneath the edge of a roof that hangs over your home. These vents may be damaged and obstruct the airflow, which prevents cool air from entering your roof.
If you do not have an intake vent, then this is something that you can fix at the time of getting a new roof. There is a shingle-over intake vent, which actually creates the opening in the surface of the roof for air to flow into the attic. There will be a portion of your roof that is raised slightly and still allows water to flow over the vent, but prevents water from getting in due to the angle that it is located on.
Why Replace Your Outtake Vent
The outtake vent probably looks like a small hub or box on your roof. This is another vent that can become damaged over time and prevent air from leaving your attic. Consider replacing it if the outtake vent is not in good condition, such as having a crack that is allowing water to get into the attic.
It is worth spending more money to avoid using a cheap box vent for your home. This is because box vents are not that efficient at letting air escape from your attic due to them being passive. There is no suction created that draws the air out of the attic through the vent. A turbine vent can be a great option at a moderate price.
Contact a local residential roof replacement service to learn more.