Is Your Attic Performing Up To Par? If Not, Look Into Attic-Sealing Techniques

Did you know that your attic could be causing you to waste energy and money? A dry, well-ventilated attic will go a long way toward keeping your home in great shape, avoiding moisture problems and lowering monthly energy bills.

On the other hand, moisture can warp your roof, ruin insulation and cause mold growth and moisture problems in the living areas of your house here in theSan Diegoarea. So how can you keep your attic dry when there are so many ways for moisture to get in?

Attic-sealing is the best way to deal with this problem. The key is to eliminate entry points for moisture and allow sufficient airflow — ventilation — to dissipate any moisture that does get in. Here’s how you can find problems in the attic and eliminate them:

Telltale signs

• Warped, rotted eaves
• Peeling, bubbled paint under the eaves (soffits)
• Warped shingles at the edges of the roof
• Wet attic insulation
• Mold or mildew in the attic
• Rotted wood in the attic

What you can do

• Install waterproof flashing to stop rain water from getting in.
• Seal drafts and leaks around entryways, ducts, plumbing, light fixtures, etc. to keep humid air from floating up from kitchens and bathrooms.
• Properly insulate the attic walls, roof, floor and eaves with the correct R-value of insulation material to keep heat in during the winter and lower utility bills.
• Ventilate to prevent moisture buildup.
• Replace panels covering the soffits with ridged vents which allow air to enter under roof overhang.
• Do not vent appliances like your clothes dryer, kitchen or bath exhaust fans or stoves into the attic. This is a major source of moisture and it may violate local building codes.

Have questions about attic sealing? Contact the experts at ASI Hastings Heating and Air Conditioning. We can inspect your home, locating and prioritizing any energy efficiency and moisture issues. We can even repair most of the problems for you. We’re also happy to answer questions that will help you seal your attic on your own. Visit our website for more information or give us a call.