Myth 1: More Vents are Always Better
This is the most common of all roof ventilation myths in Central Michigan. Many homeowners believe that adding extra vents will make the attic cooler. However, ventilation is about “balance,” not just quantity. If you add too many exhaust vents without enough intake (soffit) vents, the vents can actually pull air from each other rather than from the bottom of the roof.
This creates stagnant air pockets in your attic where mold and rot can thrive in homes throughout Mt. Pleasant, Alma, Midland, and Clare.
Myth 2: Ventilation is Only for the Summer
In the list of roof ventilation myths in Central Michigan, this one is the most dangerous. While vents do help cool the house in July, they are even more critical in January. Ventilation is what removes the moist air created by showers and cooking. Without airflow, that moisture condenses on your cold rafters, leading to rot and ice dams.
Proper ventilation ensures your roof deck stays cold in the winter, which is the best defense against winter water damage.
Myth 3: Ridge Vents Don’t Work with Snow
Some people believe that snow will block ridge vents and stop all airflow. While a heavy Michigan blizzard can temporarily cover a vent, most roof ventilation myths in Central Michigan regarding ridge vents are overblown. Ridge vents are designed to work even with a light snow covering, and the heat rising from your attic usually melts a path through the snow quickly.
As long as your intake vents are clear, the system will continue to move air effectively throughout the winter months.
Myth 4: Attic Fans are Better Than Passive Vents
Another common entry in roof ventilation myths in Central Michigan is that a powered fan is superior to a passive ridge vent. While fans can move a lot of air, they often pull “conditioned” air out of your house through small gaps in your ceiling, increasing your energy bills. A properly designed passive system is more reliable, quieter, and costs nothing to operate.
Call Energy Plus Home Improvements
Confused about your attic’s airflow? Energy Plus Home Improvements can perform a ventilation audit and ensure your home is breathing correctly to protect your roof.
