Attic ventilation serves a very important function in most San Diego homes with wood frames and asphalt shingles. It circulates air and keeps moisture levels throughout the home at acceptable levels. Newer homes in the San Diego area are designed with the proper amount of ventilation and built with design standards that ensure proper airflow and prompt removal of excess moisture. However many older homes do not have proper attic or roof ventilation. San Diego County Roofing is here to help with your roof ventilation needs.

Why Attic Ventilation Is Important

In San Diego, the major benefits of proper ventilation in a home are actually a twofold system. Regardless of the season, proper attic ventilation can help keep the inside temperatures comfortable for the homeowner. A buildup of heat settled in the attic causes the area to reach temperatures up to 140°F, which is a potential health hazard for occupants. Hot, moist air is a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and other unpleasant particles that can affect people and the structure of the roof as well.  Hot, moist air can be especially damaging to wood structures over time.  Proper ventilation in attic areas allow moisture to be released without damaging wood, insulation, studs, and other materials.

Another benefit of attic ventilation relates to the overall environmental health of a home that leaves a smaller carbon footprint due to the decreased energy usage when the attic area remains at a constant temperature. A consistent reading in the attic will prevent the hotter air from radiating down into other parts of the home and requiring heavy duty appliances such as air conditioners and refrigerators to work harder than necessary. Crisp, dry air is healthier for individuals who suffer from any type of respiratory illness or condition.  An expert from San Diego County Roofing can quickly ascertain if there is a problem and what homeowners can do to protect their investment.

Understanding Attic Ventilation Options

There are a variety of methods that can be used to create a free flow of air in an attic, and most focus on pushing air through high, exhaust vents to create a vacuum that pulls air in through lower, intake vents. Some options, such as O’Hagin Roof Vents, are very effective and virtually unnoticeable from the exterior of the home.  Depending on the size of a home, a number of vents may be recommended to ensure adequate ventilation. To calculate the number of vents required for a specific size home in San Diego, homeowners and contractors can use an online formula, which takes building code compliance into consideration.  This 1/150 calculation is the same used by us at San Diego County Roofing to insure that one square foot of ventilation is available for every 150 square feet of attic space.

Estimates And Installation Of Attic Ventilation

The proper installation of exhaust and intake vents will keep a continuous flow of air moving throughout the attic, making the environment healthy and comfortable. As a qualified roofing specialist we can determine the most appropriate type of attic ventilation is needed for your San Diego home and can assist homeowners with finding a place to install the vents to minimize impact on the home.

General climate and precipitation is another factor when it comes to designing and installing attic vents. In cooler weather, warm air from lower levels rise through to the attic. The opposite is true in warmer climates like San Diego or during hot and humid summers. The change in temperature causes moisture to condense along rafters and metals surfaces. Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems are perfect travel circuits for the air to navigate.  Expertly placed exhaust and intake vents will prevent condensation from occurring and will help maintain a comfortable and safe overall temperature throughout the home.

Proper roof ventilation plays a crucial role in preserving the longevity of any roof as well as the general performance of the building facilities.  Whether performed as part of new construction or a roof replacement process, quality attic ventilation can be added to virtually any San Diego County roofing project.

To learn more about attic vents for a specific home style or to schedule a personalized consultation with an experienced roofing specialist, please contact us today (855) 732-6868 or troy@sandiegocountyroofing.com.