What does your attic do?
The attic space separates the finished ceiling from the exterior elements and contains structural components like roof trusses and sheathing, as well as components that protect the home from the elements, such as roof shingles and flashing. It also comprises building envelope components that minimize air leakage and heat loss, like insulation and air/vapour barriers.
Roof venting also plays an important role in the building envelope by regulating attic temperature and moisture levels, preventing adverse effects such as ice damming and premature shingle wear, and aid in reducing attic frost development.
If designed to ventilate, attics include lower and upper vents that promote airflow, assisting in removing moisture from the attic space to the exterior and helping reduce heat build-up when temperatures rise. Lower venting can consist of vented soffits located below the roof overhang, or static vents installed a few feet up from the eaves. Upper vents are typically static rectangular vents, common in new construction, with louvered and turbine-style vents as additional options. Upgrades include ridge vents, gable vents, or powered vents.
How do I access my attic?
Every attic space is accessible through an attic hatch, usually a framed opening located in the ceiling of the top floor, often in a bedroom or closet. The attic hatch is sealed with weatherstripping to minimize air leakage from the interior of the home into the attic space.
Inspecting Your Attic Hatch Seal:
The first inspection starts at the attic hatch itself. Thoroughly check the weatherstripping and seal and replace them if worn or damaged to minimize air leakage. Be sure to engage the locks if installed.
Why is checking the seal on your attic hatch important?
Air loss through the attic hatch can introduce warm, moist air into the attic. This typically has little effect during warm weather since warmer attic air can hold and vent more moisture. When outdoor air temperatures drop significantly below freezing, the air in the attic cannot absorb and vent as much moisture, which can result in the build-up of frost on roof trusses and the plywood sheathing below the roof shingles. A small amount of frost in the attic is normal during very cold weather, but too much can lead to moisture leaks through the ceiling, often called “attic rain.”
What should I look for in my attic?
There is no need to enter the attic space. Visual checks should be done with the attic hatch removed, from a position where you can see the insulation. Using a stepladder and a flashlight, look for any of the following:
- Active water leaks or signs of moisture on the underside of the roof during or after a rain event
• Disturbed or displaced insulation: Sometimes high winds can affect areas of blown-in insulation and displace it. This usually occurs near the corners of the attic or around vents. These areas should be repaired to avoid cold spots and other adverse effects
• In winter, signs of excessive frost building up on the trusses or roof sheathing. You may also wish to view your roof from the ground when snow has accumulated and check whether roof vents are obstructed. Ideally, snow should be removed around roof vents to ensure your attic is venting as intended
How often should I check my attic?
Regular attic inspections should be part of your yearly maintenance plan. Plan to visually check your attic hatch and attic space twice a year: once during the summer months during or after a prolonged rain event, and once during periods of prolonged winter temperatures of -20 degrees Celsius.
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