Most homeowners don’t think about their attic unless they’re storing boxes or chasing a squirrel. But your attic plays a massive role in how long your roof lasts, how high your energy bills get, and whether your home stays healthy year-round.
Proper attic ventilation isn’t a nice-to-have — it’s essential. At Nest Exteriors, we see firsthand how poor airflow quietly shortens the life of even the best roofing systems. Here’s what you need to know.
What Does Attic Ventilation Actually Do?
A well-ventilated attic creates continuous airflow through intake (usually at the soffits) and exhaust (typically at the ridge or through roof vents). This cycle of air movement helps:
- Release trapped heat in the summer
- Expel moisture from everyday activities (cooking, showering, breathing)
- Prevent condensation that can rot decking or insulation
- Balance temperature to reduce stress on shingles
Why It Matters Year-Round
In Summer:
- Reduces attic temperatures by up to 40°F
- Lowers your cooling bills
- Prevents shingle overheating and curling
In Winter:
- Minimizes condensation and mold risk
- Reduces chances of ice damming
- Keeps attic air similar to outside air to avoid uneven melting
The Risks of Poor Ventilation
Many roofing problems we diagnose start not on the surface, but in the attic. Here’s what can happen when ventilation is overlooked:
- Warped decking and premature shingle failure
- Mold and mildew buildup (especially in humid months)
- Increased heating and cooling costs
- Voided roof warranties (most manufacturers require proper ventilation for coverage)
Red flags of poor attic ventilation include:
- Hot upstairs rooms in summer
- Frost or moisture on rafters in winter
- Musty odors from the attic
- High energy bills year-round
The Warranty Factor Most People Miss
Most shingle manufacturers (including CertainTeed and GAF) require that your attic meet ventilation minimums in order to honor material warranties. That means:
- If your attic can’t breathe, your "lifetime" roof warranty could be voided.
- A full roof replacement with improper airflow might fail in under 10 years.
Nest Exteriors ensures your attic ventilation meets or exceeds manufacturer specs on every install. It’s not just protection — it’s peace of mind.
What Proper Ventilation Looks Like
A balanced system includes:
Intake
- Soffit vents beneath the eaves
- Proper air channels above insulation to allow flow into the attic
Exhaust
- Ridge vents (our standard recommendation)
- Box vents or powered vents (in some designs)
For every 300 square feet of attic space, you need 1 square foot of ventilation (split evenly between intake and exhaust).
How Nest Exteriors Solves It
- We inspect your attic during every roof assessment
- We use code-compliant ridge vents and continuous soffit systems
- We fix insulation blockages and check for airflow obstructions
- We provide before-and-after photos with every project
Want to Know If Your Attic Can Breathe?
Book a free roof and attic ventilation inspection with Nest Exteriors. We’ll walk you through the condition of your current system and give you honest, actionable advice — no pressure, no push.
Schedule your inspection today and breathe easier tomorrow.
Nest Exteriors | Roofing. Ventilation. Protection. Peace of Mind.
