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Hiring Commercial Cleaning and Janitorial Services 

For business owners and property managers, a clean and healthy workplace is a top priority. If you are juggling keeping your commercial or institutional space clean with a long list of other priorities, hiring a reliable commercial cleaning company can help.

Having a clean workplace is healthier for employees and customers, and good for business. Here is more information on the benefits of hiring commercial cleaning and janitorial services:

A clean workplace is essential for health and safety

Now more than ever, providing a clean space for your employees and customers is essential. People are concerned about germs and bacteria that can make them sick. Regular, thorough cleaning and disinfecting can help make sure your employees, customers, and visitors are safe every time they enter the workplace. For those who suffer from allergies and asthma, cleaning will eliminate dust and allergens from carpets, fixtures, blinds, and other surfaces. This will improve indoor air quality. Calgary Trusted Cleaners also offers electrostatic disinfecting services, which can eliminate disease-causing germs and bacteria from the workplace.

Commercial cleaning services will give staff peace of mind, which is better for productivity and business. It will also mean fewer sick days among your staff and show that you are an employer or property manager that cares about their well-being.

Janitorial services have the right equipment and supplies for the job

Whether it’s office cleaning, cleaning your retail store, or cleaning an elementary school, professional janitorial services will have everything they need to get the job done right. Calgary Trusted Cleaners invests in high-end equipment and professional-grade, eco-friendly cleaning products. Combine that with proper training, knowledge, and experience, and you can trust your space will be cleaned thoroughly and properly. Do not waste time and money purchasing cleaning equipment and supplies, leave the job to commercial cleaning professionals.

A clean office or store makes a better impression on customers

Investing in retail and office cleaning services will help your business make it’s best first impression on customers and visitors. A dirty office or retail store is a major turn off, especially in an era when people are more concerned about cleanliness. Having a spotless commercial space shows clients that you are committed to property maintenance and providing a healthier environment. Commercial cleaning and office cleaning good for business and will be appreciated by everyone who walks in the door.

If you need commercial cleaning services, connect with Calgary Trusted Cleaners!

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

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Air Conditioner Maintenance Checklist

As the days get longer and the weather warms up, homeowners will start turning on their air conditioners to help maintain comfortable indoor air temperature. Your air conditioner should be serviced regularly, especially as you fire it up each spring.

Why is regular air conditioner maintenance so important?

Committing to regular air conditioner maintenance and service will ensure you’re keeping cool and comfortable in the summer heat. If you live in a humid climate, this is especially vital to home comfort. However, feeling uncomfortable in your home isn’t the only thing you should worry about. Air conditioning maintenance is essential for preventing major breakdowns, diminished energy efficiency, and an untimely AC replacement. Here are some reasons why servicing your air conditioner regularly is so important:

Prevent breakdowns

Just like anything mechanical, your air conditioner needs to be inspected and serviced regularly to make sure it’s in good shape and to prevent a breakdown. An HVAC technician will notice if a certain part is worn and needs replacing. Making those small, inexpensive replacements and repairs will help prevent more significant repairs in the future. Preventing damage will extend the life of your air conditioner.

Reduce strain on the system

If your air conditioner is struggling to do its job, it will be straining parts of the system. Clogged ducts, dirty air filters, and other dirty parts make it difficult for the AC to maintain proper air output. The increased strain will but stress on cooling units and the motor, typically resulting in a breakdown or the need for a replacement. Many air conditioner replacements could have been avoided if regular, preventative maintenance had taken place.

Improve energy efficiency

An air conditioner in rough shape can use an exceptional amount of energy to operate. Preventative maintenance, DIY combined with a professional inspection and tune-up each year, will ensure your air conditioner is operating at optimum capacity. Cleaning coils, blades, drain, clearing debris, changing filters, and making small repairs will help your air conditioner operate on less energy. You will appreciate that when your utility bill arrives.

Comfortable, healthy home

Dirty ductwork, clogged air filters, and dust and debris in the HVAC system can diminish indoor air quality. Those with allergies and asthma might see an increase in symptoms, and you might notice more dust around the home. Keep your air conditioner in good repair and you’ll feel cool and comfortable all summer while ensuring clean indoor air quality for you and your family.

Air conditioner maintenance check-list:

There are some air conditioner maintenance tasks that can be tackled DIY. Review this air-conditioner maintenance checklist and make sure your system is running as well as it can be. As a safety precaution, turn off the electrical power source to the unit before you attempt any cleaning or maintenance.

Clean away leaves and debris from the around the air conditioning unit

Your outdoor air conditioner unit should have at least two feet of space around it when it’s operational. You should give it a visual inspection every now and then, to ensure no leaves, sticks, toys, dirt, or other debris is around it. This cleared space allows for proper airflow.

Check the inside of the unit for debris

Dust, leaves, and other debris can get inside the unit over time. Before the hot season arrives, take the time to remove debris from the interior of the AC. First, remove the fan cage on the unit to inspect the interior. Use your hand to grab the larger debris, like sticks and leaves. You can vacuum the rest with a shop vacuum, including vacuuming the dust off the fins. Do not use a pressure washer or a garden hose to wash the inside of your air conditioner as it can damage it.

Make sure your air conditioner is perfectly level

Put a level on your outdoor AC unit to check if it’s level. It’s possible for the ground beneath the air conditioner’s pad to sink over time. The condenser unit must be level to function properly. If it’s uneven, use a shim, like a wood wedge to fill the gap make it level again.

Check and change the air filter

Changing the filter on your HVAC system is one of the easiest things you can do as part of air conditioner maintenance. It is also one of the most important. That simple air filter stops debris and dust from the intake vents from entering your HVAC system. If dust starts getting in there, it can cause your air conditioner to work harder than it needs to. This extra strain on the system can reduce performance, efficiency, and cause premature wear and tear.

You should check the manufacturer’s guidelines for how often the air filter needs to be changed. Otherwise, make sure to change it every 3-6 months minimum. Changing the filter when spring arrives, and then again in the fall when you’ve stopped using the AC as often, is a good schedule for your air filter change. You should also make sure the new filter has the same air-flow rating as the old one. Otherwise, reduced airflow can freeze the indoor coil.

Ensure the evaporator coil is clean

The evaporator coil is located in the blow unit of your HVAC system, inside of the house. Use a soft brush to remove dust from the coil. You can also find special coil cleaners at your local home and building supply store that does not require rinsing. Don’t worry about it foaming or dripping, as the cleaner will just drip into the drain pan.

Check the evaporator drain for clogs

Within the heating and cooling system, warm air is blown through the evaporator coil so it can absorb the heat from the air and release cool air. The warm air will create condensation on the evaporator coil. As the condensation builds, it will start to drip into the drain pan below it, and then from there, it will travel through a tube to the drain. The drain can be in a sink, the floor drain, or located back outside. Sometimes the drain can become clogged with debris or algae build-up and will need to be cleaned. If the condensation can’t drain, it will cause flooding and can damage your air conditioner.

The best way to clear the clog is to suck it out with a powerful shop vacuum. Just tape the vacuum end to the drain tube and let it run for a few minutes. If that doesn’t work, call an HVAC company for air-conditioner maintenance and repairs. To help prevent algae, mildew, and other clogs, some choose to pour a bleach solution of one-part bleach and one part water down the drain.

Clean out the drain pan

Now that you’ve cleaned out the drain itself, it’s time to clean the drain pan. You can so with hot water and soap. If you didn’t have to unclog or clean the drain before this step, now is a good time to use the bleach solution in the drain to help clear algae growth and mildew.

Fire up the air conditioner and test how it performs

After you’ve gone through the air-conditioner maintenance checklist, turn the electrical power back on to the AC and fire it up. Make sure your thermostat is on cooling mode. Then turn down your thermostat so the air conditioner has a chance to run consistently for an hour or more. If everything is running smoothly, you should program your thermostat so it’s keeping your home cool during the day, but turning off at night when AC isn’t necessary. This will help you save on your energy bills.

Schedule annual air-conditioner maintenance and tune-up from an HVAC company

If you notice something isn’t working properly or feel uncomfortable tackling this air-conditioner maintenance checklist yourself, contact an HVAC company. Even if you have done a good job ensuring all the above mentioned are clean and operational, a professional inspection and tune-up are still beneficial at least once a year. An experienced HVAC technician can assist with an inspection, repairs, and even a replacement if need be.

Not only will they check everything in our air-conditioner maintenance checklist, but they can also look at other components of your AC and HVAC system. A trained eye will be able to catch a small issue and remedy it before it becomes something major. Not only will this prevent expensive repairs, but it will also make sure your HVAC system is running safely, and that you aren’t paying more than you have to on energy bills.

In addition to the above, an air conditioner technician will check the refrigerant charge. They’ll also inspect and test contacts, relays, and controls. They will look for loose connections in the wiring, and fix them if found. An AC tune-up will also include lubricating motors and bearings, checking and adjusting belts and pulleys, and make sure the voltage and amperage of the fan, blower motor, and compressor are correct. As you can see, there is a lot more to air conditioner maintenance than a DIYer might be aware of.

When should I call for AC repairs or a replacement?

In a perfect world, your air conditioner will run smoothly without issue for the entire summer after you’ve run through the air-conditioner maintenance check-list. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Here are some tell-tell signs something is wrong with your air conditioner and you should call a professional air conditioner company for repairs or a replacement:

You’re getting warm air instead of cold

Obviously, if the air coming out of your vents is warm, it’s an indication something is wrong. First, check the thermostat. It could be that you haven’t switched it over to the cooling mode. Then set the temperature lower than the current temperature. If it’s still blowing warm air, there could be a number of things wrong included a compressor breakdown or restricted airflow. It might be time to call in a pro.

Reduced airflow

If you have insufficient air flow, it is a sign your air conditioner is struggling to work properly. There could be a blockage, clogged air filter, or even a broken motor. It could also mean that your air conditioner is old and no longer doing a good job cooling your home. Talk to an HVAC company to discuss your options.

The AC is kicking in too often

Generally, your HVAC system will run through a routine cycle when cooling or heating your home. It’s true that the AC will kick in more often when it’s a hot day, but it shouldn’t be cycling on and off constantly. If you notice it is cycling too often, it might be time for air-conditioner maintenance and repairs. In some cases, a tune-up can do the trick. In others, a replacement might be required.

Your home is more humid than usual

Summer’s can get humid, but if your air conditioner is doing its job, the inside of your home should not have high humidity. A properly working AC should regulate humidity and keep moisture at bay. If it’s not, it might need to be repaired. You can also consider a dehumidifier installed with your HVAC system as well.

You notice a strange smell

If there is an unpleasant odour is wafting around your home and you think it might be from the air conditioning, it probably means it’s in dire need of a cleaning. The biggest cause of odours is microbial growth, like algae and mildew, within the system. It can also be coming from the ducts. This is something an HVAC technician can investigate.

It’s making strange noises

All air conditioners will make a little noise as they start-up and shut down, but it shouldn’t be that noticeable. If you head a loud bang, rattle, buzzing, or other strange noises it could mean you have a big problem. Buzzing and rattling usually mean a part is loose. If you hear a whistling or grinding noise, it can be a variety of serious issues. Call an HVAC company immediately for air conditioner maintenance and repair.

Water is leaking

Condensation should be collected on the drip pan and directed towards the drain. However, this fluid and any refrigerant fluid should not be accumulating or leaking at any time. If you notice an active leak or if the water is pooling around your air conditioner, something is wrong. Water leaks can cause damage to your home, so this is not an issue you want to wait on fixing.

 

Find a RenovationFind Certified air conditioning company in your city!

RenovationFind Certified is a symbol of integrity held by only the most trustworthy companies in home improvement, service, maintenance. 

 

This post first appeared on https://blog.renovationfind.com

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House Prices: Savills Predicts 7.5% Drop in 2020

House prices to drop 7.5% in 2020

House prices could drop 7.5% this year as the UK economy battles to fight off the damage caused by the coronavirus pandemic, according to estate agent Savills.

Savills warns that the damage done to the UK economy due to the Covid-19 pandemic will lead to a short-term deterioration in house prices, with a uniform dip set to be experienced across all parts of the country. 

The estate agent made the recalculation to its residential market forecast, first published in November, following a new analysis of data reflecting the impact of Covid-19.

However, there could be a bounce-back in 2021. Savills predicts a 5% increase in house prices next year, and by 2024 house prices will have risen by 5% over the five-year period.

This forecast is lower than the 15.1% increase Savills predicted in November, reflecting a scenario presented by Oxford Economics where a downside economic scenario with a longer lockdown leads to a more persistent economic contraction, and a longer, slower recovery.

“In the short term, weak consumer sentiment will limit any bounce in activity following the housing market reopening. Over the coming years, a higher unemployment rate will impact perceptions of employment and financial security, which hold the key to both house prices and transactions,” Savills said.

“We are currently seeing a release of pent-up demand, which may trigger a brief spike in transactions in England over the summer. But uncertainty around values and rising unemployment will add to lender caution, particularly when lending at higher loan to value and loan to income ratios.”

Income growth is also expected to play a major role in both high prices and transactions over the next five years, Savills said, as well as any changes to interest rates – the Bank of England base rate is currently at a historically low 0.1%. 

(MORE: House Prices Fall for Third Consecutive Month, Halifax Reports)

Brexit Warning

Savills also notes that the risk of a ‘hard Brexit’ at the end of the year could restrict housing transactions, as uncertainty might slow any rebound in the economy. 

“We have followed the Oxford Economics assumption that the Brexit transition period will either be extended beyond 2020 or that we will see a stopgap deal allowing trade to continue until the full detail is agreed.

“Should the UK revert to trading with the world on WTO terms, economic growth would slow, which would negatively impact housing market performance.”

Transaction volumes are expected to stabilise by 2024, however, in line with Savills’ November forecast, while the coming months and years could see restricted buying and selling activity.

This post first appeared on https://www.homebuilding.co.uk

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Your Summer Maintenance To-Do Checklist

Summer is the perfect time to check off some of your home maintenance projects. There are a few home maintenance tasks that you should consider doing every year.

Check your home’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
It’s important to make sure both your home’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly! Both of these checks are super easy to do.

Make sure your fridge coils are not dusty
If your fridge coils are dusty it can actually lead to higher energy bills. Every summer you should check these and clean them off.

Clean your showerheads
Remove all the showerheads in your home and soak them in vinegar overnight.

Deep clean your outdoor grill
Most people use their grill more during the summer, consider giving it a deep clean before your next cookout.

Clean your porch
Consider power washing your porch, but be careful because if it’s not done correctly it can actually lead to damage. Call our team if you need power washing assistance.

Clean up around your yard
Go around your yard and remove any dead plants and flowers. Trim any bushes and shrubs near your AC unit.

Check for any pipe and faucet leaks
Check for and pipe or faucet leaks in and around your home!

If you need help with any of these home maintenance items call or text our craftsman. We are available to help you with home maintenance and other home repair services.

View our Summer Maintenance To-Do Checklist

summer home maintenance checklist

The post Your Summer Maintenance To-Do Checklist appeared first on Handyman Connection.

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Government Extends Planning Permission Deadline Amid Lockdown Concerns

Government extends planning permission deadline

The government has announced it will extend planning permission deadlines in a bid to save permissions for hundreds of building projects which have yet to commence, from expiring.

This is a welcome measure for those in the middle of self build or extension projects, particularly those who had feared their permission would expire due to delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLA) revealed on Monday afternoon that projects with an expiration date between the beginning of lockdown (the UK entered lockdown on 23 March) and the end of 2020 will have their permission extended to April 2021. 

This announcement forms part of the government’s measures to encourage building in the UK, entitled ‘New plans to get Britain building in coronavirus recovery’.

Housing secretary Robert Jenrick said: “Building the homes the country needs is central to the mission of this government and is an important part of our plans to recover from the impact of the coronavirus.

“New laws will enable us to save hundreds of construction sites from being cancelled before they have a chance to get spades in the ground, helping to protect hundreds of thousands of jobs and create many others.”

(MORE: Jenrick Says ‘Overly Bureaucratic’ Planning System Should be Reformed)

What This Means for Builders

This extension provides relief for those affected by the pandemic who have been unable to build prior to their deadline expiring. Planning permission usually expires after three years if building work has not begun on site, meaning there is a need to reapply.

The government estimates that by the end of June, over 400 residential permissions providing more than 24,000 new homes will have expired. 

Now, self builders and home extenders will not need to submit a new application if their planning permission or consent expires by the end of the year. 

What Else Was Announced?

New measures will be brought in to speed up the appeals process, enabling planning applications to conclude faster. 

The Planning Inspectorate, the government agency which manages planning appeals, will be able to run more than one procedure at the same time when dealing with an appeal. These procedures include written representations, hearings and inquiries. 

The government says that a pilot programme in 2019 found that this more than halved the time taken for appeal inquiries, from 47 weeks to 23 weeks. 

Furthermore, longer hours will be allowed on work sites to help builders socially distance on building sites.

“This will make it easier to follow public health guidance onsite and by staggering builders’ arrival times, public transport will be less busy and the risk of infection will be reduced,” the government says.

This post first appeared on https://www.homebuilding.co.uk

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Selling Your Home? 10 Home Maintenance Tips to Try Before Your First Open House

Home Maintenance Tips with Handyman Connection

Selling your home this year? Consider doing these 10 home maintenance improvements before you put your home on the market.

1.      Touch Up Paint

A fresh coat of neutral colored paint is the perfect way to get your home ready for an open house. It’s important to touch up any peeling old paint and repaint any rooms that may have bright or colorful paint jobs. Stick to creams, whites, grays and other neutral colors.

2.       Fix that Leaky Faucet

When you are selling your home its crucial that all sinks and other appliances are working correctly. Make sure none of your faucets or sinks are leaking anywhere.

3.       Check Your Plumbing

While you are checking your faucets, consider looking for any water damage on floors tiles or on ceilings and walls. Give all your pipes, sinks and toilets a good check to make sure they are working.

4.       Fix Your Squeaky Doors

If there are any doors in your home that squeak every time you open and close them, then consider fixing them. You don’t want to scare off potential buyers solely from one squeaky door. Luckily, a squeaky door is an easy fix.

5.       Check Your Gutters

This may not seem like an obvious home maintenance tip to try, because prospective buyers can’t see them, but it’s an important one. If you are selling your home, you need to make sure your gutters are properly functioning and cleaned out.

6.       Repaint Your Porch and Clean Your Patio

These two home maintenance tips go hand in hand. The exterior is the first thing people see when they come look at your home. Make sure both your porch and patio are perfectly painted and cleared of any excessive leaves and dirt.

7.       Landscape

You don’t need to go all out with landscaping but considering adding some fresh flowers in your front yard or pruning and weeding your existing gardens. Neatly trimmed flowers and plants give homes a really fresh and clean feel. This will attract buyers to your home to begin with.

8.       Check Your HVAC Systems

Regardless of the time of year you will want to make sure that your HVAC systems are working and clean. It’s important to keep the furnace and cleaning ducts and vents clean all year long.

9.       Give Your Home a Good Scrub

You want your home to sparkle when prospective buyers walk inside. Give your home a good scrub, clean the floors, countertops, showers and make sure to clean those hard to reach places as well.

10.   Wash Your Windows

Once your home is clean on the interior, don’t forget about the exterior. The exterior is incredibly important. Make sure all the windows around your home are clean, while selling your home you don’t want buyers looking through dirty windows.

Selling your home doesn’t need to be a stressful process. As long as you consider trying out some of these home improvement tips, your home will sell in no time. If you need help with any of these home improvement projects, Handyman Connection can assist you, consider filling out our free online quote form to get started, or call or text us!

The post Selling Your Home? 10 Home Maintenance Tips to Try Before Your First Open House appeared first on Handyman Connection.

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Is a garden suite the right choice for your home?

Adding a garden suite to your home will add both value and income to your property. Garden suites are an increasingly popular choice among Edmonton homeowners. It’s important to first determine whether a garden suite is a right match for you and your property.

Northland Building Supplies in Edmonton is a professional and experienced garage construction company. They share some of the benefits and requirements of a garden suite, to help you decide if it’s right for your home:

Garden suites

Garden suites are built as a detached single or two-story unit in the backyard. Depending on where the suite is built, some may come with a garage, while others will not. As well, some garages are used for the primary residence and others are split for the garden suite and the primary residence.

Much like a basement suite, a garden suite is a self-contained living space with a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom(s), and living room. Some homeowners add a garden suite to accommodate friends or family, like their aging parents, as opposed to renting the unit. Since the suite is in the backyard, it’s a perfect way to keep family close without sacrificing independence.

The benefits of garden suites

One of the main benefits of a garden suite is the increased privacy that both the homeowners and tenants will enjoy. Since the suite is separate for the primary house, there are no shared entrances or walls for sound to carry through. Even if the suite isn’t used as added income, simply having one will add new value to your home. Potential buyers will find garden suites just as appealing, giving your home an edge on the market.

Garden suites provide additional and versatile housing options in already established neighbourhoods. It allows renters to live in their own detached unit, without having to share common spaces with other tenants, as they would in an apartment building. Not only is it good for both the tenant and homeowner, it is also good for building communities and is an efficient way for cities to grow. Garden suites are also an ideal way to support grandparents moving in or adult children moving out. Because of the versatile use of a garden suite, it makes it a guaranteed investment no matter what. For some design ideas and inspiration, take a look at these stylish garden suites.

Is it right for you?

If you want to add a secondary suite to your home, a garden suite is ideal. Finished basements will always add value to a home, so you still enjoy the use of your basement and the monetary benefits of a garden suite. Before you build a garden suite, though, make sure it’s legal. There are various zoning bylaws and permits in Edmonton that must be approved before you can build a garden suite. To check your property for proper zoning, check maps.edmonton.ca to make sure your property is a match. This is also something Northland Building Supplies Ltd. can assist you with.

Garage Builders in Edmonton

Northland Building Supplies Ltd. provides over 30 years of experience when they build a garage or garden suite for you. Their expertise covers everything from garage construction, trusses, windows, and much more. Depending on your requirement and budget, Northland can work with you to make your dream a reality.

Contact Northland Building Supplies today!

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More than an online directory, we are Western Canada’s fastest growing marketing platform for promoting and connecting the best trades, service, and home improvement companies to homeowners.

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Homebuilding Insight: Tailoring Homes to Our Needs is Main Drive for Self Builders and Renovators

Renovating a home

Tailoring a homes to individual needs is the most popular reason for beginning a self build or renovation project, Homebuilding.co.uk research shows. 

The findings, from submissions to the Homebuilding & Renovating Reader Survey 2020, shed light on the reasons why homeowners take on building projects, whether that is building a home from scratch, or renovating, extending or converting an existing property. 

44% of survey respondents, said creating a home better suited to their needs was the primary reason for beginning their project. 

Improving home comforts has become increasingly important since lockdown. The nation has become accustomed to spending more time at home and, as such, what is required from the home may have changed significantly, for example, many now need a dedicated home office. 

Meanwhile, 19% said the main reason for taking on a building project was to gain more living space, and 15% said it was to add value to their home or generate profit once they sold it on. 

Other reasons for taking on projects included:

  • A desire to reach Passivhaus standards
  • Moving to a better location for work and schools
  • Retrofitting to meet modern energy targets
  • Making better use of a redundant room

(MORE: How to Add Value to Your Home: 20 Value Boosting Tips)

Starting a New Project

The Covid-19 pandemic reportedly led to the postponement of around 300,000 residential projects, with three-quarters of residential work halted. 

Now though, lockdown measures are easing, and building suppliers have begun to reopen, meaning self builders, renovators and extenders are able to resume or get started on their building projects. 

(MORE: How to Build a House for Under £150,000)

This post first appeared on https://www.homebuilding.co.uk

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3 reasons why roof ventilation is important 

Roof ventilation may be part of your roof, but it also plays a significant role in your home’s roofing system. A good ventilation system will move air, pushing out and drawing in hot and cold air, through the attic. This helps remove moisture from the attic while it can lead to a score of moisture and water damage issues.

Proper roof ventilation is a complex system that requires the right space, design, and layout. Even if you have ventilation, if it isn’t functional, your home will still suffer from the same problems as having no system in place. When it comes to proper roof ventilation, it’s important to understand its necessity and how it all works.

How does roof ventilation work?

While parts of your ventilation may be visible from the roof, the vents themselves are installed on both the upper and lower parts of the roof beneath the eaves along your soffit. As hot air rises, it becomes trapped in the attic. As that warm air mixes with cold attic air, the air condenses and creates a moist environment. Unless dried, this invites mould growth, which can damage the roof structure or lead to serious health problems. In colder climates, that moisture can freeze and frost in the attic. With the constant freezing and thawing, that will cause something known as attic rain. This just adds to potential mould and mildew risk, along with other water damage problems.

If the insulation in the attic becomes wet, it loses its R-value, resulting in a less energy-efficient home and much higher bills. Another risk is that the trapped heat in the attic will act as a furnace against the roof, essentially baking the shingles. That causes them to age much faster, drastically shortening their lifespan.

Install proper attic ventilation to provide a means for any hot air to escape and for fresh, cold air to move in. This exchange and movement of air help keep the attic cool and dry throughout the year and your home safe. Winter is especially important for proper ventilation, as it helps prevent ice dams, which can further compromise the safety of your roof and home. Both intake and exhaust vents are necessary for the exchange and flow of air and together provide the perfect balance.

Intake vents and exhaust vents

The intake vents are located lower on the roof, typically underneath the eaves built into the soffit. This is where they can effectively draw in the cold air. Exhaust vents, though, are located higher up on the roof to help release trapped heat or moisture from the attic. These look like little towers raised above your roof. A common type of exhaust vent has a whirly-type cylinder that spins as air moves through it. Together, these vents are what allow the necessary flow of air through your roof.

There are various options for each type of vent, but the right combination and balance of vents are key. Soffit vents and ridge vents, for example, are typically paired together for very efficient ventilation. Soffit vents are a type of intake vent installed in the soffit, allowing them to draw in cold air without risking moisture buildup during the winter. Ridge vents are installed on the ridge of your roof and act as exhaust vents. These vents pair best with soffit vents as both provide low visibility, but very high efficiency. Ridge vents also release the air evenly, which helps prevent the development of cold spots in your home.

Choosing the right intake and exhaust vents

The right vent for your home will vary depending on the climate and the style of your roof and attic. Ridge vents are nearly invisible once installed, while other exhaust vents are visible on the roof’s exterior. Intake vents are often much harder to see, as they sit beneath the eaves, either in the soffit or fascia. A variety of different vent styles are available such as decorative cupola, power vents, or wind turbines. Beyond just choosing a style, another crucial part of proper attic ventilation means having an optimized design for air transfer.

An insulation contractor is typically the one who can suggest and install vents on your roof. They will do this as part of your attic insulation upgrade. They can make a recommendation for ventilation that will work best for your climate and house.

How much do you need?

An important factor in proper ventilation is ensuring that you have enough to meet the roof and house needs. A lack of ventilation affects not only the roof, but it can also compromise the R-value of attic insulation and your HVAC system. If heat is unable to escape, the AC must work harder than it needs to, trying to cool the house. Instead of working, though, it perpetuates the buildup of moisture and possible damage. Over time, parts will burn themselves out, resulting in costly replacements or repairs.

The 1/300 guideline

A good rule of thumb to follow is always to have an equal number of intake vents and exhaust vents or 1/300. The 300 refers to the amount of enclosed attic space, so for every 300 square feet, dedicate one square foot for ventilation. Measure the amount of attic floor space in your home, then divide that by 300. That number will provide the amount of ventilation space needed and then split the number in half again. It will tell you the even amount of intake and exhaust vents your home needs.

That is a great method to get an estimate of what you need, but never pass up the added expertise of a professional. They’ll handle all measurements to ensure that your roof ventilation is optimized and customized for your home. They’ll also help suggest the right style of vents and the right design to match. There’s no one size fits all, so work with a roofing contractor to find the right choice for your home. Once you do, you’ll be able to start enjoying the many benefits of roof ventilation.

1. You’ll save money 

Proper attic ventilation doesn’t just save money during a set month; it provides year-round savings. Aside from the savings of keeping your roof in peak condition, it also helps with your HVAC system. Removing excess heat in the summer helps limit how often you need to run the AC, ensuring a longer lifespan. Constant airflow also means your home’s temperature will stay steady, without pockets of cold spots. During the winter, your furnace won’t have to work so hard to warm a house that constantly seems to fluctuate temperatures between rooms. Year-round your home will stay comfortable and your energy bills low, no matter what the temperature is outside.

If your roof develops moisture issues, you might have to do repairs. Replacing insulation, beams, joists, and other components of your attic will be expensive. Save money with this preventative maintenance measure, and ensure your roof ventilation is working properly.

2. Your roof will last longer 

If you just got your roof redone, the last thing you want to see is that it’s failing already, years before its time. Asphalt roofs or cedar shakes, for example, can easily last between 15-20 years. Without proper ventilation, though, this can drop quite a bit as premature damage deteriorates your roof. Roof ventilation helps with a longer lifespan by preventing overheating in the summer and ice dam buildups in the winter.

If you plan to do a re-roofing, talk to your roofing contractor about your ventilation system. It may be that part of the process can include improving the ventilation to ensure your roof has a long, healthy lifespan. Even if you don’t need a new roof, still call in a professional, like a roofer or insulation contractor, to inspect your system. You can’t go wrong with an inspection, especially if it reveals more ways to improve your home further.

3. Better air quality and energy efficiency

An airtight home is excellent for energy efficiency, but not so great for air quality. Without an exchange of fresh air, you’re continually breathing recycled air. Another benefit of attic ventilation is it helps with improving indoor air quality and lowering pollutants. Poor air quality can worsen symptoms for people with asthma or allergies. If mould develops and goes unnoticed, the spores can cause severe respiratory problems. With proper ventilation, though, it helps ensure that these problems and risks don’t occur. The constant cycle of air provides clean and healthy air while removing excess heat, dust, and moisture from the house.

Combine ventilation with other measures to ensure your air quality gets twice the cleaning benefits. Avoid smoking indoors, control humidity levels, and add air filtration to help provide clean and healthy indoor air. Also, invest in an annual professional maintenance check for your HVAC and duct systems. Routine maintenance will ensure everything runs smoothly and that your air ducts and filters stay clear of dust. With efficient attic ventilation and an HVAC system, your home will be an energy-efficient powerhouse. You’ll enjoy saving on those monthly bills while your home stays clean and cool throughout the year.

Myths of roof ventilation 

You lose heat in the winter: A big misconception of ventilation is that it will lower your energy efficiency during the winter by pushing out hot air. Inadequate insulation and leaks can cause heat loss, but there shouldn’t be excess heat in your attic, to begin with. If there is, it causes the snow on your roof to melt and then refreeze, causing ice dams and the resulting problems ice dams can cause. Proper attic ventilation helps this by giving that excess heat a place to escape during the winter. Your furnace should be heating the rooms you want, not working excessively to heat your attic.

You only need one type of vent: Balance is a key component, meaning there must be equal intake and exhaust vents, and not just one or the other. Just because your home has exhaust vents, doesn’t mean the ventilation is going to be efficient. Some heat may find its way out, but for the most part, that hot air will stay trapped inside. Likewise, with just intake vents, cold air can be drawn in but remains trapped in the attic. To optimize your attic ventilation both intake and exhaust vents benefit from professional installation.

You need lots of vents: More is also not better when it comes to roof ventilation and protecting your home. Too much ventilation can actually put your roof at risk either during storms or by disrupting the airflow. Conflicting airflow can occur where the air currents clash with one another in the attic, typically from having too many vents and too many different types. Instead of seamlessly flowing out, the air becomes trapped and negates the entire point of having ventilation.

Once you’ve calculated how many vents you need, stick with designs that complement one another. Soffits, ridges, and turbines, for example, work well with optimizing airflow. If you’re unsure which to choose, talk to your roofing contractor for some professional guidance.

How to spot poor ventilation 

Catching poor ventilation before it develops into costly repairs, starts with preventative maintenance. Excess heat and moisture in the summer and ice dams or attic rain in the winter are signs or pre-existing problems. With careful maintenance and proper installation, though, these problems can be avoided.

Inside your home, if you notice excess condensation on the windows or lingering odours, it’s likely your ventilation isn’t working correctly. Likewise, wet insulation isn’t able to function properly and has a much lower R-value as a result. If you notice your home’s energy efficiency is lacking suddenly, check your ventilation and insulation. Like most systems in your home, roof ventilation needs to be maintained to keep it in top shape. Professional installation will ensure that your system is optimized and designed in the best way possible. Beyond that, combine both DIY maintenance and routine professional checkups for the best results.

DIY vent maintenance

For DIY care, check for any debris like dirt or leaves or anything that may block the exhaust vent. If you have soffit or fascia vents, keep the soffit and fascia clean and well maintained. Clean the vents as well, to keep them clear and efficient when drawing in and pushing out air. Keeping the gutters clean and clear will prevent water from backing up and damaging the roof or soffit and fascia.

Professional vent maintenance

In addition to DIY care, call in a roofing contractor for annual checks. A professional will ensure that no debris or potential blocks are affecting the ventilation. If a vent needs replacing, they’ll handle that for you. Part of a ventilation check should also include a routine roof inspection to help ensure that it is also in top shape. Any loose shingles, flashing, or debris blockage can affect the efficiency of your roof ventilation. A professional will also clean out your vents to ensure there is no dust or dirt buildup trapped inside. Right before and after winter is the best time to have your roof and vents inspected. That way, your roof will be ready for the brunt of winter weather, while a spring inspection will ensure its ready for the summer.

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