A roof’s sustainability relies not only on the roof itself but also on what is under it. An attic is a vital part of a roof’s health, and the attic insulation helps maintain it. However, over time, the interior air can affect the integrity of a roof if the attic isn’t adequately insulated and ventilated. This article explains why proper attic insulation is an integral part of your home’s maintenance.
Garner Roofing: Insulation and the Roof
What is Attic Insulation?
Insulation is a barrier that keeps air where you want it. Without insulation, an attic is prone to harboring moist, hot air. Confined moist hot air equals mold and mildew. Keeping warm air in the living areas of a house during colder months is the work of insulation. Insulation prevents the warm air from escaping into the attic’s unheated space. So instead of collecting in the attic and causing future problems, the warmth stays in the main house.
Benefits of Attic Insulation
Prevents Ice Dams
If an attic is uninsulated, warm air collects there and heats the roof. In addition, a warm roof will melt snow that settles on it. The water from the melted snow travels to the cold metal gutters and refreezes. Frozen water in the gutters is called an ice dam. An ice dam can prevent water from draining, causing water & ice to back up under the shingles. This situation can potentially cause leaks into the house and affect the lifespan of the shingles. Attic insulation will prevent this.
Fungi and Mold
Most attics are constructed of wood trusses, and wood is susceptible to fungi and mold growth when exposed to excess moisture in a closed environment. Without insulation, moist air trapped in an attic will create a climate conducive to forming fungi and mold. Mold and fungi can weaken a roof.
Temperature Balanced House
Adequate attic insulation keeps the heat within the main house walls during the winter. This effect also occurs during the summer months by containing the cool air within the interior. In addition, maintaining a balanced temperature throughout the house ensures a family’s heating and cooling bills do not increase.
Odyssey Contracting
Good attic insulation is critical to maintaining a healthy roof. Odyssey Contracting, a Garner roofing installer, is ready to inspect your roof and recommend maintenance tips that will keep your roof in tip-top shape for a long time. Contact them today at 919-916-5640 and see what they can do for you. Don’t forget to follow us on social media for our latest deals and specials & events!
Recent Comments