Detached unheated garage with louvers on the gable ends. Had a problem with squirrels getting in there and have covered over the louvers (where they had gnawed through the wood to gain access) with wire mesh. The lovers are the only venting in this attic. Since it is neither heated nor cooled, does it need these vents or can I just close them up. Climate is Washington DC.
Thanks, Carlos
Replies
I recommend continuing to vent this attic. Airflow through the attic is an important way to limit the temperature of the roof itself - leading to longer roof life.
Carlos,
I built a 24 X 24 detached garage in Waldorf about 20 years ago. I did not think it needed venting because it was all open inside. Well ..... the shingles have been failing since it was about ten years old and is now ready for a reroof .... definitely going to vent this time.
Bill Koustenis
Advanced Automotive Machine
Waldorf Md
OK, guess I'll have to re-do the chewed up louvers. May be make them out of titanium to keep the critters out
venting has little impact on shingle temperature.
Climate, incident angle to the sun, and the color of the shingle have much more impact on their temperature and lifespan.
venting has little impact on shingle temperature.
Climate, incident angle to the sun, and the color of the shingle have much more impact on their temperature and lifespan.
Not true. Read any shingle manufacturers warranty info or any installation guide and you will learn about ventilation and it's relation to shingle lifespan.
The temperature of the "underside" is almost more important. A person can look on various roofs and actually see spots where ventilation is poor by distinct areas of shingle failure, ie. curling, loss of granules, etc.Neither cold, nor darkness will deter good people from hastening to the dreadful place to quench the flame. They do it not for the sake of reward or fame; but they have a reward in themselves, and they love one another.
-Benjamin Franklin
Shingles are made of the same stuff roads are made of. You are guaranteed to get heat gain in your attic from your shingles. Ventilate not only for heat, but for moisture to escape. The last thing you need is a mold and rot problem.
"The lovers are the only venting in this attic."
and I thought squirrels were bad!
If you want to keep a vent, close up the louvers and add a continuous vent at the peek.You get out of life what you put into it......minus taxes.
Marv