If you’re like many homeowners, you don’t pay a whole lot of attention to your attic. Attics are places to store old clothes, seasonal decorations, and beloved toys that the kids have outgrown. However, poor attic ventilation is a serious problem in many Bergen County homes today and causing homeowners to endure unexpected costs and headaches.
These are the top reasons why you should make sure that your attic is adequately ventilated in the winter months. We’ll also look at possible ventilation remedies and solutions for pest control Bergen County NJ.
Ventilation Prevents Moisture Build-Up
Without ventilation, wet heat accumulates in the attic due to poorly sealed openings to attic entry points. That moisture condenses over time and can cause the roof deck and shingles to buckle. But with good air flow, moisture in the attic can dry out rather than increasing and causing damage.
Many roofing experts will tell you that ridge vents are a viable and cost-effective solution to poor attic ventilation. Static roof-line vents and a ridge-and-soffit continuous ventilation system may also be recommended to prevent moisture build-up in the attic. A roof inspector can recommend a system that will work best for your specific home.
Ventilation Prevents Mold, Mildew and Rot
Side-effects of moisture in the attic are mold, mildew, and rot. But the really troubling thing is that mold, mildew, and rot in the attic can actually grow and spread to the rest of your house as well. These things can cause health hazards to your family, such as respiratory damage. They can also rot away wood in your attic, which weakens the infrastructure of your house.
Ventilation Helps Save Energy
A poorly ventilated attic is a money drain because it reduces your energy efficiency. But with good ventilation, you can prevent your heater from overworking itself in the winter months. Address ventilation issues and enjoy lower energy bills almost instantly.
Ventilation Stops Roof Damage
One of the best reasons to ventilate your attic in New Jersey in the winter is to prevent ice dams from forming. Ice damming happens when your attic is too warm and snow melts from your roof. Then that water freezes again in your gutters, creating a dam that can cause serious damage to your roofing due to water seepage. This phenomenon can result in long-term and costly damage that compromises the structure of your home.
Attic Pest Control Bergen County NJ
Unfortunately, the attic is also a common place for insects and rodents to take up residence in the home. If you don’t spend a lot of time in your attic, you might not notice cracks or holes that are forming or nests that are being built over the winter months.
Also, rodents and insects love dark, warm, and moist environments, which is exactly what you’re creating if you have poor ventilation in the attic. When you keep the air flowing in your attic, you reduce the risk of pest colonies, housing damage, health problems, and unexpected costs.
Contact us today to get a free inspection and keep your attic pest-free all throughout the year.