As you well know, looking fine doesn’t necessarily equate being sound, and this is especially true of your attic. Ventilating your attic space is crucial to keeping your roof – and your home – healthy. Unfortunately, most ventilation problems develop stealthily, beyond the immediate observation and knowledge of the homeowner. How then can you find out if your attic ventilation has begun developing issues?

High attic temperatures

Your attic is kept ventilated to allow air circulate freely through the roof space. This regulates your home temperature, improving the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. A good way to determine if your attic ventilation is faulty is to place a thermometer in your attic. High temperatures are an indication of trouble.

Presence of mold

As moisture builds in your attic, mold is cultivated. This eventually damages beams, rafters, or ceiling joints in your attic. Certain mold species are unhealthy for you and your family. Wear a respirator and go ahead to look for mold. They are likely to hide within the batts, so inspect carefully and meticulously. With the mold and its inherent dangers addressed, invite a ventilation expert to evaluate your ventilation system.

Debris

Poor maintenance of the attic could allow unwanted debris to slip unnoticed into your attic space. Clogged vents due to debris can hike your energy bills or alter your temperature regulation. If you notice this, have a professional clear your vents. Subsequently, ensure that you regularly clear the space around your attic vents, removing leaves, twigs, and dirt that could block your vents.

Ice dams

Ice dams left to foster may cause extensive roof and/or attic damage. The winter season is known for more than its fair share of snowing. During and after this period, your attic requires airflow from the outside to keep it healthy. When air circulation is poor and your attic heats up, the snow on the roof is melted. This snow then runs toward your gutters, resulting in the formation of an ice dam. Ice dams could lead to shingle loss, leaks, and bearing problems. Consult a roofer to help eradicate ice dams and to shore up its cause ahead of the next winter season.

Rust

Moisture is one of the biggest threats to your attic space. It could either result in mold (discussed above) or rust – when it lingers on the metal components in your attic. The metal components of your attic are mostly found where two beams or boards intersect; that is where you look when inspecting for rust. If you notice rust in your attic, including objects stored in your roof space, invite a roofer to determine if your roof ventilation is the culprit.

Should you notice your energy bills going up, with your attic suspect, watch out for either of the signs discussed above. If you observe any such signs, have an attic ventilation expert come for a professional inspection.

At 4 Weather Insulation & Roofing, we carefully inspect the attics of  our clients’ homes and businesses. We offer honest and expert advice and a course of action to ensure that your home or business is the best version of itself. Contact us today to book an in-home consultation today.