Cool That Attic

With energy costs going through the roof it is only prudent that we look to the roof for respite from huge air conditioning costs.

The attic is like a huge pressure cooker in that it contains heat within a space and, unless there is adequate ventilation and insulation, the pressure build-up drives the heat through the ceiling and into the home. In fact, if the heat outside is 95 degrees the attic can be as high as 160! This is especially true in homes with asphalt shingles because they hold more heat on the roof decking than tile or metal.

In addition, this literally cooks the roof deck and promotes a beak-down of the wood.

The easiest fix is a ridge vent to allow the heat to escape naturally through the peak. This will prevent pressure build up as well. Another way is for a roof vent, either a powered or wind-operated one. However, in the case of the latter there has to be a breeze before the roof vent will work properly. Gable end vents also work well. In all cases there has to be air coming in through the soffits to create an air flow.

The other consideration is insulation. Stacking up to R-40 in the attic will prevent heat from being driven down by attic pressure. Of course venting will alleviate the pressure but the insulation will help with the air conditioning costs.