Adequate ventilation of unconditioned attics is essential to avoid excessive heat or moisture build-up. In warm weather, such build-up in the attic can shorten the service life of the roofing and increase living area temperatures. In many areas, summer heat also means high humidity. This can ultimately lead to mildew and fungi growth and even sheathing decay. Even in cold weather, moisture in the air can condense out onto the cold roof sheathing eventually causing sheathing damage.

Consideration
While it is essential to provide adequate ventilation by passive means such as soffit vents as well as ridge and gable vents, forced venting may be advantageous in some cases. A wind turbine ventilator can be added for a low cost boost to airflow. Electric attic exhaust fans are more effective at replacing the hot humid attic air with cool outside air. Thermostatic controls are provided for these units; in certain situations, a humidistat may also be needed. The HouseMaster Technical Staff advises homeowners to ensure that adequate intake air provisions are also provided for any ventilation system, otherwise air flow will not be efficient.

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