Why Your Attic Needs Proper Ventilation

Katelyn Lewis • June 1, 2022

Woo, it’s hot outside – and probably inside your attic space, too!

Image of RETEX roof replacement in North Chestefield VA 23235. GAF Timberline

As the sun beats down on your roof, it’s crucial to have proper attic ventilation to direct moist heat out of and fresh, cool air into your home.

A proper attic ventilation system moderates the temperatures inside your home year-round, and it’s especially important during the summer. The sun is out more often and for longer periods of time, and its UV rays are warming your roof with more intensity. If not properly ventilated, this excess heat and moisture may increase the overall temperature of your home and damage your shingles, roof decking, wood framing, ceilings, siding, and paint.

So, how do you properly ventilate your attic?


There are a few major components to help your attic “breathe” better. You can properly ventilate your attic passively, through intake vents such as soffits or with an exhaust vent along your roof's ridge. Alternatively, an attic fan provides active ventilation, with an automatic thermostat unit kicking the fan into gear when the attic heats above a certain temperature and/or humidity level. You should have either passive or active ventilation, as having both in tandem causes the fan to pull air from the vents rather than from the eaves, undermining the goal of even air flow.

If you live in the Greater Richmond, VA area and are interested in having your attic ventilation assessed, give our Retex Roofing & Exteriors team a call at (804) 442-3314 or click the button below to tell us more about your project.

CONTACT RETEX
Vinyl siding replacement in Fredericksburg, VA.
By Katelyn Lewis April 30, 2025
Richmond in particular has hot, humid summers and mild winters, which can cause expansion and contraction but generally isn’t extreme enough to drastically shorten this siding material’s lifespan.
Owens Corning Oakridge shingle and modified bitumen flat roof replacement, 23235.
By Katelyn Lewis April 25, 2025
After meeting with RETEX’s Mark Erickson and discussing his roof options, this North Chestefield homeowner chose to replace his roof with Owens Corning Oakridge shingles and his sunroom’s flat roof with modified bitumen.
Gutter with baseball stuck in downspout opening, causing water and debris to build up.
By Katelyn Lewis April 23, 2025
You may notice debris piling on top of your gutters or water overflowing them.
A brown-grey bunny in a meadow, with forsythia in the background.
By Katelyn Lewis April 20, 2025
Easter is about celebrating peace, love, and family. And it’s a joyful time in which Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his death by crucifixion.
RETEX Metal roof replacement in Providence Forge, VA
By Katelyn Lewis April 16, 2025
There are a handful of factors that influence how long it will take to replace your review. Let's discuss.
RETEX roof replacement in Fredericksburg, VA 22407, featuring Owens Corning
By Katelyn Lewis April 11, 2025
This Fredericksburg homeowner reached out to RETEX in October 2023 to assess whether his roof needed repairs or a full replacement.
A RETEX window installer carries a new low-E fiberglass window to second floor, North Chesterfield.
By Katelyn Lewis April 9, 2025
Let's discuss the pros of replacing your old windows with energy-efficient new ones.
RETEX Siding replacement in Midlothian, VA 23112.
By Katelyn Lewis April 2, 2025
Let's review five factors that come into play with the cost behind replacing your siding.
RETEX Roof Replacement in North Chesterfield, VA, August 2024. OC Duration Williamsburg Grey shingle
By Katelyn Lewis March 28, 2025
This North Chesterfield homeowner reached out to RETEX in July 2024 for a roof replacement quote.
RETEX's Josh Lewis examines a window replacement project in North Chesterfield, VA.
By Katelyn Lewis March 19, 2025
If you need to replace your home’s windows, you may be wondering how long the window replacement process takes.
More Posts