BAFFLED BY RAFTER VENTS AND ATTIC BAFFLES?
Baffles and rafter vents are the same things. Baffles are installed in the attic (or should be), wherever there is an intake vent (soffit vent). Baffles ensure proper airflow into your attic space. Baffles prevent vents from getting clogged by insulation and ensure a clear channel for outside air to move into the attic through soffit vents.
Click here to learn more about proper attic ventilation>
WHAT DOES A BAFFLE LOOK LIKE?
Baffles are constructed of hardcore waterproof foam and come in 4-foot lengths and 14-1/2 and 22-1/2 inch widths for different rafter spacings. Baffles are installed on your attic ceiling in between the rafters at the point where your attic ceiling meets your attic floor. Common baffle colors are pink, blue, and tan.
BLOCKED INTAKE VENTS
When intake vents are blocked, the amount of fresh air needed to properly ventilate your attic is impaired. This can lead to heat buildup in the attic and can allow moisture build-up in winter.
While it may seem counter intuitive, you do not want heat to build up in your attic in winter. A hot attic can lead to ice dams which can be very destructive. Click here to learn more about ice dams>
CHECK YOUR ATTIC FOR BAFFLES
If you go up into your attic, look for baffles between rafters. Keep in mind not all rafter need baffles, just those with intake vents at the soffit.
If you don’t have baffles installed, check your intake vents for any type of blockage for insulation or debris. This can be cumbersome since you will need to squeeze to the corners of your attic. It is recommended you wear a mask and cover skin (no short sleeves or shorts) to prevent contact with insulation, dust, and debris in the attic.
FALSE INTAKE VENTS
Another reason for the lack of rafter vents may be a lack of intake vents. Even when you see soffit vent screens on the outside of the home, you may learn you don’t actually have intake vents. To verify, remove soffit vent screens – if you do not see a hole cut through to the wood leading to the attic, it is not a vent. Here in the Chicago metro area, this is far too common.
The good news is, soffit vents can be installed and are not very expensive. Depending on the size of your home, the job can be done in a few hours with the right tools and experience.
ATTIC AIR
If you want to ensure proper ventilation and you are not up for inspecting your attic and verifying intake vents, call us! We are Attic Air, we offer free onsite attic ventilation assessments. Schedule yours today at 630.830.3870