Avoid Over-Insulating Your Attic

Attic insulation protects your home from heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. It also prevents air from leaking into unoccupied rooms and from heated attic air escaping to cooler living spaces, saving energy. Proper attic insulation should be a key part of any home improvement project or renovation, but how much is too much?

Adding too much roof installation can inhibit your attic ventilation and result in moisture problems, ice dams or even damage to your roof and shingles. It can also reduce the lifespan of your soffit and baffle vents and cause problems with your attic ridge vent.

To check if you have enough attic insulation, take a look at your floor joists from underneath your attic. If you can see them clearly, you do not have sufficient insulation. A good rule of thumb is to have the insulation reach or level with your floor joists.

2. The attic vents are blocked or obstructed.

When you add new insulation, be sure to use a product with a high R-value (recommended values are found on the label) that will offer great thermal protection. You should also keep the added insulation away from soffit and baffle vents, recessed lighting and electrical boxes.

Insulating the attic “ceiling” is not recommended as it can prevent air flow through your attic, causing ice dams and heat damage to your roof and shingles. If you are considering adding attic insulation, have a certified attic energy specialist conduct an inspection and home energy audit. They will determine how much insulation you need, what type and the best installation method. They will also identify air leaks and help you seal them to avoid over-insulating your attic.

Cool Roof Solutions
6835 Rd 60, Willows, CA 95988, United States
(530) 520-4274