Attic Insulation Ventilation Tips
Statistics show that 85 percent of a house s heat loss is straight up through the attic space.
Attic insulation ventilation tips. For the best results place roof ventilation near the roof s peak and soffit vents in the eaves. Laying an attic blanket across the joists increases the r value of the insulation in the attic significantly. Fasten blocking around the hatch or door to allow the material to be installed around this area without escaping. Static roof line vents are effective for ventilation but generally aren t recommended due to issues with leaks.
Proper insulation and air sealing also keeps attics cold in winter by blocking the entry of heat and moist air from below. Batts must be carefully trimmed to fit snugly around vents to retain their r value. To make it easy to eyeball how level the material is as you blow it in screw depth guides to joists throughout the space. Make sure the fill s depth is uniform across the attic.
With a helper to load the blower with insulation as needed start at the perimeter of the attic and work toward the attic access door. If you see dampness or frost you need better roof ventilation and some attic vents. Air flows in through the soffit vents and out through the roof vents. Ideas projects and tips for finishing remodeling ventilating and insulating your attic.
Fill every joist space completely and evenly with the insulation leaving attic vents uncovered. Level uneven spots with a rake. In the summer natural air flow in a well vented attic moves super heated air out of the attic protecting roof shingles and removing moisture. Ventilation openings having a least dimension larger than 1 4 inch 6 4 mm shall be provided with corrosion resistant wire cloth screening hardware cloth perforated vinyl or similar material with openings having a least dimension of 1 16 inch 1 6 mm minimum and 1 4 inch 6 4 mm maximum.
Gable vents may circulate air through only a small percentage of your attic. This type of insulation is ideal for attics with standard spaced beams and joists and very few obstructions. Grab a flashlight and inspect your attic during the winter. Working with metal clad mc cable mc cable is easier to work with than rigid conduit and offers protection from fire vibration gnawing pests and physical harm in general.