Maximizing Florida Roof Shingles' Lifespan with Proper Attic Ventilation

Ventilation is critical for every Florida roof. Did you know improper attic ventilation can affect the life of your shingles? Most people are unaware that improper roof venting can impact your home's structure. Florida summers bring excessive heat and sunlight onto your roof. If you don't have proper attic venting, the heat can build up to a temperature of 160°F or more! A shingled roof over an unventilated attic can lose 10% or more of its useful life. This superheated air can penetrate your ceiling insulation and into the living space below.

You may think only 10% is not a big deal. But this estimate was based on research by Building Science Corporation, in Westford, Massachusetts. Now take that estimate and apply it to Florida weather! A homeowner can experience roof decking rot, breakdown of wood framing, higher energy costs, and damage to siding and paint. This is a big deal for your shingled roof and is much more than 10%.

If you live in a coastal area such as Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach, Edgewater, or Flagler Beach your shingles may age earlier than you expect. Do they show any of these signs earlier than you'd expect?

• Lots of missing granules

• Granules in the gutters

• Blistering shingles

• Shingles curling

• Brittle shingles that are dried out

• Cracking both horizontally and vertically.

Triangle Roofing can go up into your attic to detect moisture or leaks. It will be pretty obvious if your roof is not properly ventilated. You will see discolored plywood decking and possibly mold from "sweating". Shingles may stop sealing and become more vulnerable to blowing off in the wind.

The most important thing is venting: both intake and exhaust venting. Think of ridge vents, edge vents, and soffit vents. Sometimes a house has the wrong type of vents for the roof design. Triangle Roofing has the experience to evaluate your home in Daytona Beach, Ponce Inlet, Flagler Beach, and surrounding areas.

A properly ventilated attic must be checked when doing a new roof installation. It can help reduce the load on your air conditioner and save you money. A solar roof fan is the icing on the cake, bringing your attic temperature down in the hot Florida summer. Don't let moisture collect on the underside of the roof, soaking everything below. This can cause damage to your ceilings and walls. An unobstructed flow of air through the attic will help extend the life of your roof and your home's structure. Air goes in and out: your house needs to breathe.

If you are experiencing any moisture or shingle issues, Joe at Triangle Roofing Ormond Beach can help. We work on Florida roofs every day and have the experience to deal with any roofing problem. We take our customer service seriously and look forward to your call. Contact us today.