If you are a homeowner, you are likely used to seeing asphalt shingles on your roof and the roofs of your neighbors. However, if you’ve got a keen eye, you may have noticed a new trend popping up around the country. We’re talking about metal roofs!
Metal roofs have been used since the 1700s, but typically they have been reserved for industrial properties, such as businesses and barns. These days, though, more and more homeowners are realizing the many benefits that come with metal roofing.
If you’re considering metal roofing for your home, you’ve likely done lots of research about the pros and cons. However, one thing that many people forget to research is ventilation systems.
If this is the first time that you are hearing about roof ventilation, don’t panic. We’re here to talk through everything you need to know about metal roof ventilation.
4 Reasons to Choose a Metal Roof
If you’ve never heard about metal roofs before, you might wonder what all the fuss is about. The truth is that metal roofs are gaining in popularity for good reason! But don’t just take our word for it. Check out all of the ways a metal roof could positively impact your life below.
1) Durability 💪
For many homeowners, the search for a new type of roofing material begins when they realize that their existing asphalt shingles are not doing a great job of standing up to the demands of their climate. Metal roofs are a great option for all climates. They stand up well to things like hail and strong winds and are easy to remove snow from. Additionally, they do not expand and contract with changing temperatures, which helps to keep your home secure.
2) Fire Resistance 🔥
The risk of devastating wildfire damage to your home is higher than ever these days. Many homeowners are looking for fire-resistant roofing options to help protect their homes. Metal is naturally fire-resistant, making it a great choice if this is one of your priorities.
3) Longevity ⏳
A new roof is a significant investment, no matter what material you choose. If you are planning to spend a lot of money on a new roof, it is likely that you are looking to get the most bang for your buck! Metal roofs may be more expensive than a standard asphalt shingle roof, but they will last for twice as long. In fact, the average metal roof lasts between 50-70 years!
4) Energy Efficiency ⚡
There’s nothing more frustrating than having to spend unnecessarily large sums of money to keep your house warm during the winter and cool during the summer because your roof isn’t energy efficient. If you’re looking to increase energy efficiency, you can’t go wrong with a metal roof!
Why Do You Need Roof Ventilation?
Have we sold you on metal roofing yet? Great! However, there’s one important thing that we need to discuss before you call up your roofing contractor. And that is ventilation.
Ventilation may not sound like the most engaging topic, but it is hugely important. All roofs need proper attic ventilation in order to allow warm air to escape. If the moisture-rich, warm air stays trapped in your attic, it can cause condensation and subsequent water damage.
While condensation is a problem for all types of roofing materials, metal roofs tend to be particularly vulnerable due to the fact that they quickly take on the temperature of the air around them.
Types of Metal Roof Ventilation
Now that you understand the importance of a proper ventilation system, it is time to break down the different types of vents that are available to you. Metal roofing panels have a variety of different vent styles available, each with different benefits.
Ridge Vents
Ridge vents are the most common style of ventilation for metal roofs. They are popular for seamlessly blending in with architectural-style roofs. They are easy to purchase in a color that will match your roof, as well as structurally match the shape of the roof.
Ridge vents can be placed directly on your existing metal panels and then will be covered with ridge cap flashing.
Static Ventilation
Static ventilation isn’t so much a system as it is a way to use the natural flow of air to keep your home ventilated. Static ventilation relies on the idea that hot air will rise to help remove a build-up of hot air in your home.
Gable Vents
You’ve likely seen gable vents in a home before without realizing what they are. Gable vents aren’t placed on the roof itself. Instead, they are installed onto the side of your home, typically near the peak of a gable.
Intake Vents
Intake vents are designed to pull in cool air from the outside of your home. These are typically used in tandem with a different type of vent that will expel hot air from the inside of your home, such as a ridge vent. Intake vents are also sometimes referred to as soffit vents or drip edge vents.
How Much Does a Vent Installation Cost?
Installing a vent will save you a significant amount of money in the long run by preventing water damage and energy inefficiency. But if you are anything like us, we know that you are worried about that initial installation cost.
The good news is that vent installation can be relatively affordable. In general, installing a standard ridge vent will cost between $300-$700. This price includes labor costs. While you may be tempted to take on this project yourself to bring that cost down, we highly encourage you to work with a professional contractor.
Metal roofing requires specific tools and techniques in order to make sure it is installed correctly. In order to avoid a headache further down the road, you’ll want to leave this one to the pros!
Contact a Metal Roofing Expert
Ready to add vents to your metal roof? Let the trusted team at Durashield help you out! Our team members have all been extensively trained in metal roof installation and are here to answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to set up your free roof inspection!