Maintaining a commercial roof involves more than just fixing leaks or replacing materials. One aspect that often gets overlooked is ventilation. Proper airflow plays a critical role in keeping a roofing system in good condition, yet many building owners fail to recognize its importance. Over time, poor ventilation can lead to significant expenses—both in repairs and increased operational costs.

Why Roof Ventilation Matters

Roof ventilation helps control temperature and moisture levels inside a building. Without proper airflow, heat can build up in the summer, while moisture gets trapped during colder months. These imbalances create problems that impact both the structure of the roof and the efficiency of the building.

Problems Caused by Poor Roof Ventilation

1. Higher Energy Bills

Without proper ventilation, hot air gets trapped inside during warmer months, forcing air conditioning systems to work harder. In the winter, inadequate airflow can cause heating inefficiencies, leading to higher energy costs year-round.

2. Moisture Damage and Mold Growth

When warm air inside the building rises and meets the cold surface of the roof, condensation forms. Over time, this moisture seeps into insulation, decking, and other structural components, creating an ideal environment for mold and mildew. Left unaddressed, this can lead to serious structural damage and costly repairs.

3. Roofing Materials Breaking Down Too Soon

Extreme temperature fluctuations weaken roofing materials. Shingles, membranes, and underlayment can crack, blister, or deteriorate faster than expected when heat and moisture aren’t properly managed. This leads to frequent repairs and the need for a full replacement much sooner than anticipated.

4. Poor Indoor Air Quality

A lack of proper ventilation affects more than just the building’s structure. Moisture buildup contributes to mold growth, which can circulate through HVAC systems and impact indoor air quality. Employees and tenants may experience respiratory issues, creating an unhealthy work environment.

Ways to Improve Roof Ventilation in Commercial Buildings

Addressing ventilation issues requires careful planning. It’s not just about adding vents—proper ventilation needs to be designed to suit the building’s structure, climate, and roofing materials. Without the right strategy, airflow imbalances can still cause problems. Here are three key steps that can improve roof ventilation and protect your investment.

Professional Ventilation Assessment

A thorough ventilation assessment by a roofing expert is the first step in identifying airflow issues. Professionals use specialized tools to measure air circulation, pinpoint obstructions, and detect areas where moisture is accumulating. They consider factors such as roof design, insulation levels, and existing vent placement before recommending solutions. A customized approach ensures that the ventilation system works efficiently for the specific needs of the building.

Installing the Right Ventilation System

An effective system balances intake and exhaust vents to allow continuous air movement. Intake vents, often placed along soffits or eaves, pull in fresh air, while exhaust vents, such as ridge vents or turbine vents, expel hot and humid air. In some cases, mechanical ventilation—like powered exhaust fans—may be necessary to improve airflow in large commercial buildings. The right combination of these elements helps prevent moisture buildup, heat retention, and energy inefficiencies.

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Even the best ventilation system won’t work properly without routine maintenance. Over time, vents can become clogged with debris, insulation may shift and block airflow, or mechanical ventilation systems might fail. Regular inspections help spot these issues before they lead to major damage. A proactive maintenance schedule, including seasonal checks and after-storm inspections, keeps ventilation systems operating effectively and extends the life of the roof.

Trust Great Lakes Roofing for Your Commercial Roofing Needs

Proper ventilation is key to protecting your roof and keeping your building running efficiently. Great Lakes Roofing has years of experience helping businesses in Chicago and Northwest Indiana with expert roofing solutions. Whether you need a ventilation assessment, repairs, or a full roofing system upgrade, our team is ready to help. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and keep your roof in top shape.