First of all, in the Pacific Northwest, there is the assumption that there isn’t enough sunlight to worry about heat. But the relative lack of sunlight and abundance of gray skies doesn’t factor all that much into the equation.
Do you need to vent a metal roof? The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including adequate space for intake vents, soffit vents, intake and exhaust vents, ventilation systems, attic spaces and proper attic ventilation, attic heat, the size of the underside of the roof, and more.
However, it’s really about:
Condensation
Truth is, the reason for venting a metal roof is to inhibit the accumulation of condensation. This condensation can occur with only satellite variations in temperature. So even when the sun is hidden behind a dense layer of marine-gray clouds, the chance for condensation can remain high, especially if the air in the home is warmer than the air outside,
Metal roofing panels can and do accumulate condensation. They can also sometimes retain this moisture. Ventilation in your roofing system does a good job of preventing this accumulation in attic spaces and other spaces between the ceiling and the structure’s roof.
Do Metal Roofs Need To Be Vented? We say yes.
Like other types of roofing, metal roofing needs to breathe. Metal roofs use static ventilation, which promotes natural airflow. In other words, it doesn’t need to rely on fans or other methods to allow for proper air movement. Having the right roof ventilation in place at the time of installation is key.
Roof vents help remove warm, moist air from the attic area of your home. Moisture in the air that accumulates near the roof will be a recipe for disaster over time. That’s because it can allow for mold, mildew, and condensation to build up around the roof and even in the walls or ceiling.
Ventilation systems as part of an aluminum roofing system can allow for maximum airflow. Warm and moist air from within vents outward. And colder, drier air from without takes its place. Either ridges, eaves, or soffit vents will do the trick.
Another effective method of forestalling the accumulation of condensation is the addition of moisture or vapor barriers. Without adequate evaporation, moisture will build up. This can lead to mold and/or corrosion.
Prevention
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to prevent this. Ventilation, as well as other tools, such as vapor retarders, roofing underlayments, air barriers, provide effective and long-lasting results.
Keep in mind that any roofing system is prone to condensation. There’s nothing about a metal roofing system that makes it more likely that you’ll need to combat moisture accumulation.
Still, it remains a fact that ventilated roofs prevent moisture buildup and can be energy efficient. Ventilation helps prevent energy waste and excessive attic heat buildup through proper attic ventilation.
Rest assured that the metal roofing experts at Mountaintop Metal Roofing will find the best combination of tools for your roof. When you have your metal roof installed properly, warm air will escape through the exhaust vents, ridge vents, or gable vents.
Air will also flow into the intake vents. And this combo of intake and exhaust will keep your roof deck cool and the underside of the roof protected.
So no more worries about hot air on your standing seam or other metal roofing system. We will make sure that your new aluminum roof is properly vented and that you will have truly lifetime roofing.