We’ve recently come across a recurring issue during full home inspections across Florida: roofers sealing or covering attic vents when replacing a roof. This can create serious problems if not done with the right plan in place.
If you’ve recently had your roof replaced—or are planning to—this is something you’ll want to pay attention to.
Why Attic Ventilation Matters in Florida Homes
Proper attic ventilation is essential for managing heat and moisture. In a hot, humid climate like Florida, your attic must be able to breathe.
Without adequate ventilation, you could experience:
- Heat buildup in the attic
- Higher cooling costs
- Moisture issues that lead to mold
- Damage to roof decking and insulation
- Reduced indoor air quality
Unfortunately, when roofers cover vents without making other adjustments, it can throw the whole system off.
Why Are Roof Vents Being Covered?
There are a few reasons roofers might seal or remove attic vents:
- The vent is outdated or damaged
- The roofer believes the attic will be sealed and insulated
- Aesthetics or roofing material compatibility
- Lack of understanding about attic airflow
In some cases, covering vents is intentional and can be done properly—but only with the right upgrades in place.
When It’s Okay to Cover Roof Vents
There are two acceptable ways to approach this:
1. Spray Foam Insulation & a Conditioned Attic
If the attic is going to be sealed and insulated with spray foam along the roof deck, then vents are no longer necessary. The attic becomes part of the home’s conditioned space.
This approach must be done completely and professionally—partial or poorly installed spray foam can cause more harm than good.
2. Powered Attic Ventilation
If the attic is not going to be conditioned with spray foam, then ventilation still needs to be provided. In this case, a powered attic fan is usually required to maintain airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
This Isn’t Something We Flag on Insurance Reports
During wind mitigation or 4-point insurance inspections, attic ventilation is not something we’re asked to report on. The forms do not include this category.
However, when performing full home inspections for buyers, attic ventilation is absolutely something we evaluate—and it’s often when these issues come to light. Buyers (and agents) are surprised to learn that a brand new roof may have unintentionally created a long-term problem.
Why It Matters for Florida Homeowners
A poorly ventilated attic can lead to:
- Shortened roof lifespan
- Mold and moisture issues
- Higher utility bills
- Potential red flags during future home sales
In some homes, the issue isn’t discovered until a buyer’s inspection uncovers it—by then, the cost to correct it can be significant.
The picture at the top of the post was from a home that we ended up having to do mold testing on because of the lack of ventilation. https://swinspectionsllc.com/mold-growth-around-ac-registers-a-case-study-from-vero-beach/
What Should You Do?
If you’ve recently had a roof replaced—or are in the process—ask your roofer:
- Were any vents covered or removed?
- Was the attic converted to a conditioned space?
- Is a powered attic fan installed if needed?
If you’re unsure, or if the attic feels excessively hot or stuffy, schedule a home inspection. We’ll confirm whether the ventilation setup is appropriate for your home’s structure and insulation system.
Schedule a Home Inspection with SW Inspections
We perform thorough home inspections across the state of Florida, helping buyers and homeowners understand the full picture—from roof to foundation. If you’re concerned about attic ventilation, insulation, or roof installation, we can help.
Contact us here https://swinspectionsllc.com/contact/ or give us a call to schedule your inspection.