Your attic may be the area of your home where you spend the least amount of time, but it is still important to make sure that it is properly insulated and ventilated. When moisture enters your attic, it can impair the attic insulation; damage your roof; affect humidity levels in the rest of your home; and cause your monthly heating and cooling costs to increase.
Follow these tips to make sure you get the most out of your attic insulation:
- Weatherproof Your Roof – Sealing existing roof leaks and installing flashing to prevent future leaks can reduce the amount of moisture that can enter the attic space, especially if you have an older home.
- Seal Air Leaks – Attic insulation is not only affected by water, it is also impacted by humid air that enters from your living space. Sealing leaks between the top floor and the attic can help solve this problem. Proper sealing will also keep conditioned air in your living spaces, where it should be.
- Properly Install Attic Insulation – It may not seem like it, but there are incorrect ways to insulate an attic. Blocking vents, leaving empty spaces, and not using enough layers are all factors that can contribute to higher monthly heating and cooling bills. Professional installation will ensure that it is done correctly.
- Ventilate Your Attic – If humid air cannot escape from the attic, it will cause moisture to build up, which increases the likelihood of mold and damage to attic insulation. Installing vents under the eaves and on ridges will ensure proper air flow and ventilation. It is also important to vent all appliances and exhaust fans outside of your home, and not directly into the attic. All attic vents should be unobstructed by insulation and other objects, so take care when insulation is laid, and when moving boxes and other items stored in the attic.
The professional technicians at Around the Clock Air Conditioning and Heating in North Hollywood are here to answer your HVAC questions and to provide expert advice. Contact us any time to learn more or to schedule a consultation.
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