ATTIC VENTILATION IS AN AFFORDABLE SAFEGUARD
It seems counter-intuitive, but it’s true. You want to keep your attic cool in winter, with plenty of air circulation. Attic ventilation can prevent ice dams, moisture issues, and prevent mold growth.
PREVENT ICE DAMS
Here in the Midwest during the winter, heating systems run day and night in order to keep living space comfortable. The heated air can rise into the attic. When it snows, a warm attic will melt snow on your roof too rapidly. The snowmelt runs down the roof to the gutters where it can freeze and cause ice dams to form. Ice dams are destructive and can lead to costly home repairs. Click here to learn more about ice dams.
ELIMINATE ATTIC MOISTURE
During winter, windows and doors are closed and sealed to keep heat in. All the while, daily household activities including showers, baths, and cooking activities generate moisture vapors.These moisture vapors are carried by the warm air into the attic through unsealed gaps and cracks. Without proper air circulation in the attic, moisture vapors condense on hard surfaces and over time can lead to moisture problems including mold, mildew, and wood root.
ATTIC AIR CIRCULATION
The best way to combat these attic problems during winter is to ensure you have proper attic air circulation including ample intake and exhaust vents. Intake vents at the eave or soffit allow cool outside air to flow into the attic. Roof vents installed higher on the roof allow warm moist air to exhaust out. An attic fan can also be added to dramatically improve air circulation.
LIVING SPACES ARE NOT AFFECTED
Of course, it seems odd to cool the space above when you are trying to keep rooms warm below. But don’t worry! If you have sufficient attic insulation, a cool attic will not impact the room temperatures below or cause you to run your heating system more often.
NOT SURE IF YOU HAVE PROPER ATTIC AIR CIRCULATION?
Call us for a free attic assessment today at 630.830.3870