Some homes and businesses feature roof vents that help air flow through the attic of the house and serve as an extra source of ventilation for the home. Though you may not see them, they play a key role in keeping your home comfortable. During the winter, many homeowners think that it is best to cover the roof vents. If it snows, you don’t want that getting in the house, right? Well, not quite.
HVAC Troubles
The ventilation on your roof keeps temperatures in your home constant. So, if you block the vents, your unit works harder to compensate for the reduced flow of air. HVAC units that exert more energy tend to need more frequent repairs. Which isn’t something any homeowner wants to deal with.
Dangers to the Roof
When you cover roof vents in the winter, you’re not only causing your HVAC to work harder but you also might risk roof damage as well.
Trapping Warm Air in the Attic
Covering roof vents during the winter keeps the warm air in. You may be thinking, “Yeah, that’s what I want, right?” While it may seem like a good thing, this actually can cause harm to your roof.
Warm air is meant to escape through your roof vents. It’s a natural part of the heating and cooling process. So, if it’s not leaving your home, it’s just sitting there. When it snows you will find that having your air vents covered and warm air in the attic causes the snow to melt and then refreeze on your home. This causes both clogging in the gutters and puts extra weight on your roof – which can be dangerous for an older one.
Covered Roof Vents Lead to Moisture Build Up
Another danger to your roof is the build-up of moisture. We all know where this leads: mold. When you have mold growing in your attic, it is extremely harmful to your home. Not only because it makes your roof weaker, but also because it lingers in your home as a health risk.
Get Winter Roof Vent Help
If you’ve been covering your roof vents in the winter, don’t worry! You learn something new every day. If you’re worried about the health of your HVAC unit, Twin Air is here to help. Just give us a call!
For those who are seeking a roof ventilation solution for their home this winter, our local team of HVAC specialists can help pick what’s right for you.