Owens Corning
How Ventilation Helps Solve Ice Dam Problems
When homeowners set out to eliminate ice dams, their typical response is to add more insulation to attics. But no amount of insulation, if used alone, can eliminate the formation of ice dams. An efficient attic ventilation system must be part of any solution.

A properly designed ventilation system creates a "cold roof" -a condition where the roof temperature is equalized from top to bottom. An equalized roof temperature, in turn, helps eliminate the conditions that lead to the formation of ice dams.

By now you probably know how ventilation creates a cold roof. It allows a flow of air to sweep along the underside of the roof sheathing, minimizing temperature differences. By now you also may have a valid question to raise: Aren't we talking about a uniform flow of cold air sweeping through the attic?

Exactly, and that's why ventilation alone isn't a complete solution either. For maximum comfort, reduced structural damage and optimum energy conservation, ventilation must be used with a waterproofing shingle underlayment and, of course, with insulation. Ample insulation is required to minimize heat losses, and high-efficiency air movement is required to remove any heat that enters the attic.


Source: Air Vent Inc. A Certainteed Company
Reprinted with permission

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