Attic Upgrades

Without proper attic insulation and balanced ventilation, your attic may retain heat, potentially allowing moisture to build in the attic cavity during times of seasonal cold. In the summer, attic heat gain may over-heat the attic space causing temperatures in the inside living area to increase beyond comfortable levels.

Adequate roof venting and insulation is required to prevent excessive heat build-up in the attic during the summer months. Energy costs are also reduced when your attic ventilates well, decreasing the cost to heat and cool your home.

The diagrams below compare the components of functional and dysfunctional attics.

Abney Roofing specializes in attic ventilation and insulation. We can inspect your attic space and determine the unique needs of your attic and will advise what changes can be made to increase air circulation and prevent moisture build-up.

Our maintenance crews are well trained to identify and address attic deficiencies. Please keep in mind that attic inspections and upgrades are only conducted in late fall, winter and spring (depending on the weather). Warm weather, especially in the summer months can make attics unbearably hot, often far exceeding the outside temperature.

If you have concerns with your attic they will need to be addressed when the weather allows for such activity.

What to Look For:
  • Dark stained roof sheathing
  • No light coming in through the soffit
  • Ducting is not insulated or appears to be installed incorrectly
  • Very few roof vents or undersized roof vent openings
  • Inadequate insulation (Below 18.5 inches in depth)
  

Dysfunctional Attics

The most common sign of excess attic moisture is dark stained and moist plywood sheathing. As you can see, both attics above appear to have significant moisture damage. The attic on the right is also showing signs of mold development. Aggressive mold growth can lead to health complications.
Functional Attics

The attics above are healthy and contain the components of a functional attic. The picture on the left features blown-in insulation with the recommended insulation depth of 18.75 inches and even coverage. The attic in the middle features Styrofoam vent chutes that rise above the insulation line and supply adequate fresh air intake from the soffit into the attic space. The roof on the right features adequate static roof venting. This allows the attic to ventilate correctly and keeps heat and moisture from building in the attic. The B.C. Building Code requires 1 sq ft of roof ventilation for every 300 sq ft insulated ceiling area, this is split between fresh air intake and static roof venting. That being said, these are the bare minimum requirements. The minimum ventilation requirements are often inadequate.

Refer to Roof Ventilation Menu in the Products Section for more information.
 
 
               
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