Breathing and maintaining a controlled temperature are two functions that the human body needs to perform in order to live. Preserving a "healthy" attic is very similar in this regard. In order for an attic to function properly, it needs adequate ventilation and the capacity to maintain the same temperature as it is outside. To ensure that these bare necessities are met there are three aspects of your attic that need to be checked. If you think any of the following issues may be plaguing your attic, then it might be a good idea to get a FREE inspection from Omaha Door & Window.

 

#1. Your attic must be able to allow airflow to enter inside it. This airflow occurs via the soffit or the overhang area of the home. Many times homes are designed with an insufficient amount of soffit venting. In addition, even if you do have the proper amount of soffit, the soffit area could potentially be blocked by dirt or attic insulation. In the summer months, this problem could cause your attic to reach over 150°F, causing your shingles to warp, thereby increasing your air conditioner's workload. This results in an unnecessary and easily preventable higher energy bill.

 

#2. Your attic needs to have the capacity to exhaust the heat that is produced inside of it. Quite frequently, homes are designed with inadequate exhaust systems, which can cause the same problems that occur with a lack of fresh air intake.

 

#3. The third and final area of concern in your attic is the amount of insulation in your attic space. The old adage that twelve inches is adequate to insulate your home is no longer suggested. The U.S. Department of Energy is now recommending twenty-two inches for proper insulation. If you do not have enough insulation in your attic, not only are you paying for the precious heat or AC escaping into that area, but the heat or cold from the attic could also come down into your living space causing your energy bills to rise.

 

The primary goal is to have your attic the same temperature as it is outside. If one of the three aforementioned operations of your attic are not in place, two major problems can happen.

 

#1. If your attic is too warm, snow will melt prematurely on your roof and freeze around the soffit area, resulting in ice damming. This can cause thousands of dollars worth of water damage to the walls and ceilings in your home.

 

#2. Without proper air exchange in your attic, moisture will form. This will allow mold to manifest itself, causing health and structural problems.

 

If you would like a FREE attic inspection to examine intake exhaust and insulation levels in your attic, please give Omaha Door & Window a call.