Identifying and Fixing Poor Attic Ventilation Issues

Attic ventilation might not be the first thing on your mind as a homeowner—but it plays a critical role in the health of your roof and your home’s overall energy efficiency. Without proper airflow, your attic can become a breeding ground for moisture, mold, and heat damage. At Gerken Roofing, we’re here to help you recognize the signs of poor attic ventilation and explain how we can fix it before it causes long-term problems.

Why Attic Ventilation Matters

Your attic needs to “breathe.” A balanced system of intake and exhaust vents allows fresh air to enter and hot, moist air to exit. When this system fails, it can lead to:

• Premature roof deterioration

• Higher energy bills

• Ice dam formation in winter

• Mold and mildew growth

• Poor indoor air quality

Proper ventilation helps extend the life of your roof, improves insulation performance, and keeps your home comfortable year-round.

Signs Your Attic May Have Ventilation Issues

Not sure if your attic is properly ventilated? Watch for these common warning signs:

1. Excessive Heat in the Attic

If your attic feels like a sauna in the summer, there’s likely poor airflow. This trapped heat can warp shingles and damage roof decking over time.

2. Rust or Corrosion

Metal components like nails, fasteners, or HVAC units may begin to rust from excessive moisture buildup due to poor ventilation.

3. Moisture, Mold, or Mildew

Check for damp insulation, condensation, or musty odors. These are red flags that warm air isn’t escaping and moisture is trapped.

4. Ice Dams in Winter

When hot attic air melts roof snow, it refreezes at the eaves and creates ice dams—leading to leaks and water damage.

5. Higher Than Normal Energy Bills

Without ventilation, your HVAC system works harder to cool or heat your home, especially if attic temperatures reach extreme highs.

How Gerken Roofing Fixes Ventilation Problems

At Gerken Roofing, we don’t just install roofs—we make sure they’re protected from the inside out. Here’s how we solve attic ventilation issues:

Attic Inspection

We’ll start with a full assessment of your attic’s current airflow, insulation condition, and existing vents.

Adding or Upgrading Vents

We install ridge vents, soffit vents, gable vents, and power fans depending on your home’s needs. Our goal is to ensure balanced intake and exhaust.

Sealing Air Leaks

We identify and seal gaps that let warm, moist air into the attic from your living space—improving both energy efficiency and moisture control.

Moisture Barrier Upgrades

If moisture is already present, we may recommend vapor barriers or insulation adjustments to prevent mold and further damage.

When to Schedule an Attic Ventilation Check

If you’ve experienced roofing issues, mold problems, or ice dams—or if your home is more than 20 years old—it’s a smart time to evaluate attic ventilation. Small improvements now can prevent major roof repairs later.

Trust the Local Roofing Experts in Irwin, PA

Gerken Roofing is committed to protecting your home from top to bottom. From attic ventilation to storm damage repair, we offer honest assessments, skilled craftsmanship, and dependable service throughout Westmoreland County.

Call us today at 724-515-5551 or visit www.gerkenroofs.com to schedule your attic inspection.