Why is attic ventilation so important for my home?
Attic ventilation is a structural necessity that regulates the temperature and moisture levels of your roofing system. A proper system uses a combination of intake vents at the eaves and exhaust vents at the ridge to create a continuous flow of air. This airflow prevents heat buildup in the summer that can bake your shingles. It also stops moisture accumulation in the winter that leads to mold and ice dams. Without this balance, even the highest quality shingles will fail years before their intended lifespan.

The Science of the "Breathing" Roof

Roofing is not just about the outer layer of shingles. It is an integrated system. In a climate like Illinois, your roof faces extreme temperature swings. During a hot July day, attic temperatures can soar above 150 degrees. This heat radiates downward into your living space and forces your air conditioner to run constantly. In the winter, the same lack of airflow allows warm, moist air from your showers and cooking to trap itself against the cold underside of your roof deck.

Three Signs Your Attic is Suffocating

Many homeowners in Orland Park and Joliet do not realize they have a ventilation problem until they need a full roof replacement. Look for these warning signs:

  1. Rusty Roofing Nails: If you see rust on the nails in your attic, it is a sign of high humidity and poor airflow.

  2. Black Mold on Sheathing: Dark spots or streaks on the wooden boards in your attic indicate that moisture is being trapped and feeding fungal growth.

  3. Brittle or Curling Shingles: When an attic is too hot, it cooks the shingles from the inside out. This causes them to lose their flexibility and shed protective granules prematurely.

The Stan’s Standard: Intake vs. Exhaust

A common mistake in home construction is having plenty of exhaust vents but no intake. For air to move out of the ridge at the top of your house, fresh air must be able to enter at the bottom.

  • Intake Vents: These are typically located in your soffits. They pull cool, dry air into the attic space.

  • Exhaust Vents: These are located at the highest point of the roof. Since heat rises, the natural convection pulls the hot air out through these vents.

According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), a balanced system of 50 percent intake and 50 percent exhaust is the gold standard for residential performance. If this balance is off, your roof may actually pull air from your heated living space, which increases your energy costs.

The Financial Benefits of Proper Airflow

Investing in ventilation is one of the most cost effective ways to maintain your home. Proper airflow provides three major financial advantages:

  • Extended Shingle Life: You can avoid the cost of a premature roof replacement by simply letting your roof breathe.

  • Lower Utility Bills: A cooler attic means your HVAC system does not have to fight against a massive heat reservoir sitting on top of your house.

  • Warranty Protection: Most major shingle manufacturers, including GAF and Malarkey, require proof of proper ventilation to honor their long term material warranties.

Get a Professional Attic Audit

At Stan’s Roofing & Siding, we do more than just nail down shingles. We perform a total system analysis to ensure your intake and exhaust levels meet modern building codes. If you notice your second floor is always hotter than your first floor, or if you see frost forming in your attic during January, it is time for a professional evaluation.

Sources:

  • Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA): Ventilation Why and How.

  • Energy Star: Guide to Sealing and Insulating Attics.

  • GAF Technical Services: The Importance of Attic Ventilation for Shingle Longevity.