The roof of a building is a key aspect of the building envelope. Many issues arise from not having a properly ventilated roof, as well as not having sufficient drainage. This is especially so in roofing applications such as cedar shingle, or shakes, and metal roof assemblies. Having sufficient drainage and ventilation with your roof assembly, you’re assuring that the roof functions properly, as well as extending the life and look.
For wood roofs to last, drainage and ventilation are crucial. Problems from not having these two aspects include cupping, warping, rotting, damage to the felt, or even mold in the attic space. Along with that, ice dams, and ice sickles can form, which pose problems on their own. The underlying theme is that without drainage, and ventilation, the life span of a wood roof is severely decreased. This also can be said for metal roof assemblies. Rust and corrosion can form without having the moisture properly managed. Both lead to roof failures that are not only expensive to repair, but are detrimental to the sustainability of the structure.
For both types of roofs, it is essential to create a space for continuous air-flow underneath the roof application. This will assure the underside of the roof can drain incidental moisture, but also dry. By having airspace directly underneath the roof, the underside will be the same temperature as the topside, which can prevent issues such as ice dams from forming.
This continuous air-flow is best provided by the Driwall CDR Vent. It is a drainage and ventilation mat applied directly underneath the roofing application. The CDR Vent provides an air-space so moisture can drain, and the assembly can dry. The CDR vent can be used with cedar shingles, or shakes, metal roof assemblies, slate, etc. It will eliminate the need for furring strips, and since the CDR Vent is made from an extruded polymer matrix of tangled monofilaments, it absorbs no moisture. By incorporating Driwall CDR Vent, you are assuring that no problems relating to moisture will arise within the roof assembly. The result is an aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable roof.