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Why Attic Insulation and Ventilation Are Essential
There’s no question that the strength of your roof is important to protect your Colorado home. But, did you know that your attic also plays an important role in the condition of not only your roofing system, but your entire home? Homeowners need a well-insulated and ventilated attic as part of an effective roofing system. Insulation and ventilation serve to protect your home against the harsh outdoor elements.
Here, we’ll explore how attic insulation and ventilation can protect your Lakewood residential roofers system against temperature fluctuations, excess moisture, and more.
Attic Insulation
Insulation can be found in multiple components of a home’s structure, including the attic. Blown-in, spray foam, and batts are the most common types of insulation. Blow-in insulation can be made of either fiberglass or cellulose, and it’s blown into the area with a large hose. Spray foam insulation comes in two varieties, open-cell and closed-cell. Batts are big pieces of insulation consisting of fibers (either cotton or fiberglass) woven together.
Here at All Seasons Exteriors, we offer blown-in insulation for homes in Lakewood and throughout Colorado. Blown-in insulation is highly efficient and an excellent investment in your home.
Benefits of Attic Insulation
- Protection for the structure of your home
Over time, poor insulation can lead to damage to the structure of your home. Heat and condensation that leak into homes without adequate insulation will break down roof shingles and decking. A lack of attic insulation can also promote mold growth, which can lead to long-term damage to the structure of your home.
- More affordable energy bills
The energy that your heating and cooling system requires to keep your home comfortable most likely makes up the majority of your utility bill each month. Attic insulation plays a large role in keeping the energy required by your HVAC system to a minimum. If your home is under-insulated, air will leak in and out of your home. This will force your HVAC system to work harder to achieve the same level of cooling or heating. With insulation, however, you prevent air leakage so that your heating and cooling systems don’t require as much energy to function properly.
- Improved air quality
Insulation helps prevent dirt, dust, and mold from getting into your home. When these impurities diminish your home’s air quality, it can lead to allergic reactions among members of your household.
Attic Ventilation
The purpose of attic ventilation is to promote airflow so that air doesn’t become stagnant in your attic. When air can flow through your attic, rather than sitting in it, your home’s heating and cooling system can more effectively maintain a comfortable temperature in your living spaces. Your roof also needs ventilation to diffuse the air that enters through the eaves and soffits. The ventilation systems of both your roof and your attic work together to keep your home comfortable and in good condition.
Many Lakewood roofs are under-ventilated, making it difficult for homeowners to recognize when they need additional ventilation. But, when the roof and attic are under-ventilated, many negative effects could result, including:
Diminished Roofing Longevity
Without ventilation, air can’t effectively flow through your roofing system and attic. In warm weather, the heat caused by trapped air can force your roofing shingles to swell and crack. This significantly lessens the lifespan of the shingles, potentially leading to a premature Lakewood roof replacement. To protect the lifespan of your shingles and ensure that your roofing system lasts for as long as possible, roof and attic insulation are essential.
Over-Heated Attic
Trapped air due to a lack of ventilation can make your attic extremely hot, especially during the hottest summer days here in Lakewood. This heat will seep into your home, making your living spaces uncomfortable hot and forcing your air conditioner to work harder than is necessary.
Warping
Excess heat in your attic can, over time, lead to warped walls and wood framing. This damage can become severe if left unrepaired for a prolonged period.
Contact All Seasons Exteriors today to learn more about attic insulation and ventilation for your Lakewood home.