Your roof is one of the most important elements of your Maryland home. While most homeowners are aware of the common maintenance that goes into a roof - replacing shingling, cleaning off moss accumulation, and inspecting for leaks - they often forget about the minute details that contribute to a healthy long-lasting roofing system. Roof ventilation is an often overlooked aspect of maintenance that shouldn't go ignored. Ensuring that your home has the proper ventilation it needs will greatly promote its longevity and healthy functioning. Let's look into some of the reasons why you need roof ventilation, as well as the options available to you.

Why Do I Need Roof Vents?

The attic of your home is a prime place for stale air and moisture to build up. By installing ventilation along your roof, you allow an exit for all of this. With stale air and condensation finding an escape, your attic will remain nice and dry, which in turn prevents mold and mildew buildup. As mold can be detrimental to your family's health, it's important to install ventilation! Vents that work as egress for already stale air are considered exhaust events. On the flip side, vents that bring in fresh air to your home are considered intake vents. While exhaust ventilation is the most common type of installation, intake vents can do a lot of work for your home as well. Here are some common choices that Maryland customers go for!

​​Installing Exhaust Vents in Your Roof

Exhaust vents are the most affordable and common installation done on homes. In fact, if you're already getting a roof installation or roof repair done in the first place, this type of installation is likely included. Common options include:

  • Ridge Vents: These vents are installed at the apex of your roof and covered with shingling, allowing any stale build-up of air in your attic an easy escape.
  • Off Ridge Vents: These are very similar to ridge vents, except that they aren't installed on the apex of your roof. While they do not ventilate as efficiently, they're a great option for a Maryland home with lots of unique slope architecture.
  • Box Vents: Perfect for a roof that has trouble ventilating in specific spots, box vents can be installed in groups over trouble areas.

​​Benefits of Intake Ventilation for Your Roof

While intake ventilation is not nearly as common, it can go a long way toward protecting your home's integrity and attic health. Soffit vents are a popular choice for their ease of installation and affordability. They're placed right underneath the roof overhang, where air can enter the home through little holes. Gable vents are a more elaborate intake ventilation system that's installed along the sides of your house near the ridge. They add a touch of personality and maximum airflow.

Call Shanco Today to Handle All of Your Roofing Needs

If your Maryland home is lacking the ventilation it needs, reach out to the roofing team at Shanco! We've been in business for over 20 years and offer a diverse range of home exterior remodeling services. As a Roofing Contractor of the Year and an A+ rated company by the Better Business Bureau, we'll never steer you wrong with our quality workmanship and exceptional customer service.

Get in contact today for your free quote!