The Need for Proper Ventilation on a Roofing System

Attic ventilation is a requirement for every roofing system. It allows excess moisture and heat to escape from the attic, where it would otherwise build up and result in mold, deterioration, and a host of problems. Properly installed, passive roof vents enable a home to “breathe.” There are two general types of home ventilation: spot ventilation and whole-house approaches. Both can be effective means of maintaining your home – here’s why:

Spot ventilation

Spot ventilation targets specific areas of your home to get rid of excessive moisture or temperatures. One popular method includes installing an exhaust fan into a kitchen and bathroom. When vented outside, they can effectively remove moisture from the home. Make exhaust fans easy to use by wiring them to a switch or a dehumidistat control. A dehumidistat measures relative humidity levels and will automatically turn the fan on when needed.

Roof vents are another type of spot ventilation. They are spaced strategically throughout the roofing system, and provide a great air exchange path when combined with ridge vents.

Whole-house ventilation

Houses are (or should be) designed and built to breathe on their own. If a home is completed insulated with airtight products, it may be necessary to install an air exchange system to maintain a healthy balance. Duct systems are available that mix outside air with the air that returns to the furnace.

An air-to-heat exchange system is a more expensive option that captures heat from the air being exhausted. However, this is a good option for maintaining comfort in homes without a central furnace.

Don’t go overboard on moisture control

Not all moisture is bad when it comes to being a homeowner. Typically, summer heat brings high humidity levels that should be diminished. In the winter, the danger is opposite, and steps may have to be taken to increase the amount of humidity in your home.

On average, humidity levels should between 20 percent and 40 percent. Extremely low or high humidity levels can cause health concerns (respiratory) and a plethora of home concerns, including static buildup, warped floors and trim, etc.

Seek Help from Professionals

When you’re looking for additional resources to improve the ventilation of your home and roofing system, contact Adams Roofing Professionals. We service the Chicagoland area, and provide valuable solutions to fit your home and budget requirements.

I wanted to let you know about an experience I had with one of your employees. I live at 1200 Knottingham Court in Kingsport Estates and apparently, your company is servicing our condo association. My building has had a leak in the entryway for several months and Eddie was dispatched out to have me show him the source of the leak inside. I met him on Friday, September 21st and just wanted to tell you how impressed I was with his friendliness and professionalism. He immediately found the source of the leak and even went up on the roof to show me. He assured me that someone would take care of it as soon as possible and told me he would give the report priority to avoid any further damage. As someone who used to be in Customer Service, I always value a company that hires people that are not only skilled at their trade, but also skilled at interacting with people. Eddie is a great example of that and I wanted you to know so you could tell him what a great job he does! I am so glad that Alma Management chose Adams Roofing to be our roofing contractor!... [more]

Jeremy Q, CMCA, AMS

Adams Roofing has a great team to work perfectly with condo and townhome Associations. We are currently in the middle of a 6 year, 49 building tear-off project. Adams works hand in hand with the engineers, delivers according to the specifications, and provides great customer service to the homeowners and management team.... [more]

Sue T.

Good Afternoon, I am writing to you on behalf of the Mission Hills M-8 Association. I would like to tell you how happy we are with the work that you completed for our Association. Your supervisor Eddie was great. We liked his professionalism and his work ethic. He kept us informed, and delivered on all his promises. Please make sure that any other jobs you do for us include him. Best regards, Joey Mission Hills Management... [more]

Brett K.

Charlie, Thanks very much for replacing the gutter! No one has been out to do it, at least before I left for work this morning. But I will definitely let you know whether it’s done correctly. I am very satisfied with your roofing job. It looks great, and more importantly, there were no leaks when it rained (even though we haven’t gotten really hard rains yet). So, I have been very pleased with my experience with Adams, especially with the professionalism and responsiveness of you and Dan. Thanks.... [more]

Keith M.

I wanted to take a moment to comment on your technician, Eddie. Eddie was assigned to inspect a roof leak I am having in my home in Cobblestone Circle. He was prompt, professional, courteous and informative; everything a customer could ask for when inviting a contractor into their home. Eddie represents Adams Roofing Well; and clearly he is an asset to your company. Kudos to him! Thank you.... [more]

Rick H.