Attic Attack Assessment

Voided manufacturer warranties: Many warranties include clauses that list “inadequate ventilation” as a condition that renders the warranty null and void. “Unless a homeowner knows how to calculate how much ventilation their roof system should have in order to meet a warranty, they have no real way of telling if their roofing warranty is in danger of being rendered worthless.

Higher than necessary utility bills: when air in an attic just sits there due to poor ventilation, it heats up during the hot summer months. That means it affects the temperature of the inside of the home as well, forcing the home’s air conditioner to work harder to cool the inside of the Michigan home. That translates to higher energy bills and possibly having to replace the air conditioner earlier than usual.

Mildew and moisture problems: according to the EPA, when humidity levels in an attic rise above 50%, condensation can build up and that moisture can provide an ideal place for mildew or mold spores to grow. These conditions can present hazardous health issues for the family living inside the house.

Roof damage including “fried” shingles: improper ventilation often results in a roof becoming hotter both under the surface and above the surface, which results in degradation of the shingle material. Not only does this type of damage nullify any warranty on the shingles, but it also can create problems inside the home due to leaks caused by the failure of the shingles.

Ice dams: in cold climates that receive a great deal of snow, ice dams form when warm air in the attic melts snow on the roof. “This snow slides down toward the roof’s edge and refreezes, building up an enormous weight and damaging the shingles at the edge of the roof, as well as the gutters, and causes leaks which can lead to further expensive damage inside the Michigan home.