Under the heat of the Australian sun, metal roofs can get extremely hot and must be well-ventilated to allow hot air to escape. For the temperature in your home to be regulated and comfortable, you’ll need a well-ventilated home with good airflow.
You’ll need a vent in your metal roof to avoid moisture build-up, which can result in mould and structural damage to your home. Good roof ventilation will help to prolong the life of not just your roof but your home too.
If you want to add a vent to your metal roof, we’ve compiled the best types of vents for metal roofs and why you may need them in your home.
Why is proper roof ventilation important?
In roof spaces, poor ventilation can lead to various problems for your home, such as excess moisture, dampness and damaged roof shingles. Having ventilation that keeps you and your family comfortable is vital.
Here are some reasons why proper roof ventilation is important:
Energy efficiency
Good ventilation will reduce the heat in your home’s roof cavity and attic. Your home’s energy efficiency will increase, resulting in lower energy costs spent on air conditioning to cool you down.
Temperature control
Metal roofs can become very hot under sunbeams, creating uncomfortably hot air that builds up in the roof cavity and attic space. Good ventilation on a metal roof can prevent this build-up and regulate your home’s temperature and humidity levels.
Reduce moisture
In the roof cavity, moisture can build up and cause mould, mildew and structural damage to your home. Ventilation allows the air to circulate, which can help prevent moisture and the build-up of condensation.
The lifespan of the roof
Good roof ventilation can prevent the damage that moisture and heat can cause, improving the roof’s longevity. The metal in roofs can contract and expand in temperature variations, and heat build-up can cause damage to ceiling insulation. Good ventilation will help save money on repairs over time and protect it from heat damage in the first place.
Choosing the right type of ventilation needed for your roof is important, especially in a hot and humid climate. Properly installed ventilation comes with benefits that can save you money, extend your roof’s lifespan and control the temperatures in the attic.
Why are metal roofs popular in Australia?
Metal roofs are common in Australia as they’re durable and resilient to harsh weather, such as hailstorms, bushfires and heavy rain. Metal roofs stand strong and reliable against the elements.
With highly reflective features, metal roofs reflect much of the sun’s energy and limit the heat entering a building. Good ventilation within your metal roof will create a more comfortable temperature and lower energy bills.
Alongside their durable and reliable qualities, metal roofs are made from recycled materials and are an eco-friendly choice. They help reduce waste as they can be installed over the top of existing roofs, and need minimal heavy structural support as they’re lightweight.
Metal roofs are versatile and can come in many colours and styles, making them a popular choice for aesthetic reasons. With various design options, they can add a sleek look to any building and look good alongside their sturdy features.
What are the different types of ventilation for metal roofs?
Here are the different types of roof ventilation systems for metal roofs and why they may be a good choice for you.
Ridge ventilation
Ridge ventilation is highly effective and allows hot air to escape through the ridge of the roof, whilst the soffits or eave vents draw in cooler air. This ventilation keeps the attic space cool, preventing moisture and condensation from building up. Available in different styles and sizes, ridge ventilation is a good option for metal and shingled roofs.
Advantages:
Ridge vents are installed at the roof’s peak, ensuring airflow continuously flows and works well to create ventilation in your attic space. With no moving parts, they’re unlikely to break and are an effective way to vent a roof. They also prevent insects from entering the roof space.
Disadvantages:
Ridge vents can sometimes be prone to leaking in bad, stormy weather and can be a more expensive roof ventilation system.
Gable vents
Gable vents let hot air escape and cooler, fresh air enter. Installed near the gable end of the roof, this is a popular choice for roof vents as it lets in cool air during the hot summer months and keeps the attic warmer in the winter.
Advantages:
Depending on the direction of the wind, this type of roof ventilation works well as both intake vents and exhaust vents.
Disadvantages:
If not installed properly, there is the risk of them caving in and, in some cases, can cause the roof to peel away in high winds.
Solar powered ventilation
Solar-powered ventilation works well in all weather, using the sun’s power to keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. They help to reduce mould and fungus from growing, which is suitable for humid weather.
Advantages:
Ventilating your roof this way is energy and cost-effective as it doesn’t require electricity to work, and it’s a great option if you want a more eco-friendly approach.
Disadvantages:
It can be expensive to install solar panels, and they may not work on every roof. They’re also dependent on energy from the sun, which makes their efficiency vary.
Roof turbines
Roof turbines spin in the wind and use their airflow to prevent the build-up of moisture and condensation. The flow of air helps to reduce heat as well as helping to keep your roof cool. The turbine pulls air out of the roof when the wind reaches 5 to 6 miles per hour.
Advantages:
Roof turbines are easy to install, long-lasting and work well in various weathers. It also helps your home’s HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) system by relieving strain by pushing hot air away outside.
Disadvantages:
Even though they work well against the elements, they’re not fully weather-proof and may become clogged up by debris.
Choosing the suitable roof vents for metal roofs depends on various factors, and knowing your options’ benefits and drawbacks can help you make the right decision for your metal roof.
Depending on your budget, roof structure and size, you can decide which roof is best for you. Speaking to a professional for further information about what will work can help you to make your choice.