When it comes to the roofing system for your commercial building, you may not think twice about it. As long as your roof keeps out the elements, it is doing its job, right? For the sake of simplicity, yes.
However, efficient roofing systems are comprised of many elements that keep it operating at peak efficiency.
There is a reason we call it a roofing “system.” Every element needs to work together for maximum efficiency. When one of these elements fails or operates at subpar levels, it brings down the performance of the entire system. One such element is roofing ventilation.
What Is Roofing Ventilation?
Roofing ventilation refers to a series of vents that allow air to circulate throughout the attic space of a building. It helps to maintain the balance between air outside and air inside the building, bringing fresh air inside while disposing of warm, moist air outside.
Comprised of both intake vents and exhaust vents, this system helps to regulate the temperature and moisture levels in the commercial interiors. Here are a few benefits of a proper ventilation system:
• Mold and mildew control
• Less chance of roof leakage
• Lower energy costs
By regulating the airflow into and out of commercial buildings, you not only keep your interior comfortable, but you can also prevent a host of problems that may arise from poor ventilation.
Signs of Inadequate Ventilation
Roof ventilation can be both too little as well as too much. At MacDermott Roofing, we help you to find the perfect balance between the two. So, we have a few tips about commercial roof ventilation that you should know about and when to seek commercial roofing services to address the issues.
Higher Energy Bills
When you don’t have proper ventilation, that means warm air produced by your building’s operations doesn’t have the ability to escape the way it should. This warm air creates an uncomfortable working environment and causes your HVAC system to work harder to keep up, especially in the summertime.
Your HVAC system working harder has a dual negative effect – for one, the strain wears out your HVAC system sooner, causing an increase in maintenance and repair frequency, and for two, it increases your energy consumption, which in turn, increases your energy bill.
Moisture Buildup
In addition to not allowing heat to escape efficiently, an improper ventilation system also doesn’t allow for humidity and moisture in the air to escape. You may notice condensation, water droplets, or mold and mildew buildup on the interior of your building as well as your exterior roof.
Structural Damage
Moisture and heat are a toxic combination. Excess moisture leads to rot, mold, and rust while excess heat exacerbates these issues. Not only can this prematurely age your roofing materials, but it can also lead to structural damage and costly repairs.
Roof Leakage
Speaking of damage, one of the most noticeable signs of an improper ventilation system is roof leakage. Poor ventilation damages the integrity of roofing materials, causing them to weaken and become susceptible to leaks from rain or snow.
The purpose of roofing systems is to protect building interiors from the elements, but bad ventilation renders this purpose void.
The Formation of Ice Dams
Ice Dams occur when winter temperatures rise and then drop. Accumulated snow on roofs begins to melt as weather warms, but when temperatures drop again, this melted snow freezes into ice, blocking gutters and drainage spouts.
Proper ventilation systems keep these ice dams from forming by balancing temperature and airflow between the inside and outside of the building. If you notice that your commercial space has ice dams, it is a strong indicator that you don’t have proper ventilation.
Commercial Roof Repair and Installation for a Sound Building
While ventilation concerns can cause a host of issues, it is a relatively simple fix for the right company. At Mac Dermott Roofing, our expertise lies in installing efficient roofing systems, such as Duro-Last and repairing those that don’t perform at optimal levels.
Keep your Metro Detroit industrial building operating at peak efficiency with the help from our expert commercial roofing services. We specialize in new roof installation and roof maintenance and repair on all types of buildings and roofing systems. Call to schedule a No- Obligation roof inspection today!