Why Proper Attic Insulation Is Important for Your Roof

Your home’s roofing system is one of the most important parts of your home. Whether you have asphalt shingle or metal roofing, your roof protects you and your family from the weather and makes your home stand out. As a homeowner, one of the things you can do to protect your roofing system is to ensure it has adequate attic insulation.  

To ensure your roof is in good condition, you need more than durable roofing shingles. Take note that the insulation in your attic plays a major role in keeping your roof in great shape. In fact, proper attic insulation helps lower the risk of damage to your home in the event your roof is suffering from leaks, cracks or other roofing issues. 

Today, we give an overview of attic insulation and how it preserves the structural integrity of your roof and protects your home.

The Importance of Attic Insulation

Attic insulation protects your home against heat loss, prevents condensation buildup and preserves the integrity of your roof. Excess heat can escape through the gaps and cracks of your roof’s peak and trickle through your shingles and roof deck, causing excess moisture and pressure. Thanks to proper insulation, the wood structure under your roof does not have to adjust to temperature changes. 

Why Do Attic Insulation and Ventilation Go Together?

Combining attic insulation with adequate ventilation is a great way to get rid of the excessive moisture and heat in your home. This way, you maintain the proper conditions and temperature in the attic and on the roof deck throughout the year. Otherwise, moisture and heat will be trapped in the attic, which can cause significant damage to your roofing system and home.

To ensure your home is well-ventilated, be sure to take note of the three key principles of proper ventilation, typically referred to as the ABCs of ventilation:

• Ample Amount

The International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) require a minimum ventilation ratio of 1:150 or 1 square foot of vent area for every 150 square feet of attic or roof area.

• Balance

For proper ventilation, you need to balance the intake and exhaust vents. Balanced airflow helps to keep conditioned air inside the house and out of the attic. If you don’t have an equal amount of intake ventilation to balance the exhaust ventilation, the negative pressure in the attic may suck the air from the inside of your home. As such, your heated or cooled indoor air will be pulled into the attic through the ceilings or the cracks in the wall. Not only will you be uncomfortable, but you will also waste energy and money.

• Control Airflow

To prevent conditioned air from escaping into the attic, you may want to consider air sealing and insulating your attic space. This helps you feel comfortable as well as save money on energy bills as insulation keeps the attic temperature where it should be. 

What Are the Benefits of Attic Insulation?

There are plenty of advantages that await you once you insulate your attic sufficiently. Here are a few reasons why attic insulation can be beneficial:

• Trapping in Warm Air

Are your rooms drafty and cold? Or are your energy bills significantly rising? If so, you may need to upgrade your insulation. To stay healthy and durable, your attic needs fresh air ventilation. An energy-efficient home should trap in warm air while also allowing cold air to pass. When you seal your attic, you have proper attic insulation, preventing warm air loss and keeping your home comfortable.

• Preserving the Roof’s Structure

Roof rafters should remain in great shape with no cracks or other issues to prevent causing structural issues in your home. One way you can do this is by having the right amount of attic insulation. A well-insulated attic shields your roof rafters from drastic temperature changes. Keep in mind that wooden rafters are more susceptible to expanding and contracting due to a change in temperature, increasing the risk of developing cracks. If you think your roof rafters are cracked, contact a professional roof repair technician as soon as possible.

• Preventing Costly Repairs

Moisture damage is a devastating roofing issue that can be costly to deal with if not addressed promptly. Aside from installing a seamless gutter system to deflect water from your property, you will also need a proper attic insulation to regulate it. This is particularly evident during winter. If your space isn’t adequately insulated or air-sealed in the winter, heat rises, builds up moisture, and escapes. This can lead to severe leaks and mold growth. 

• Stopping the Formation of Ice Dams

An unevenly or incorrectly insulated attic can lead to ice dams forming along your asphalt shingle or metal roofing system’s exterior. When ice dams occur on your roof, it may cause water damage to both your home exteriors and interiors. In the event you notice them during the winter, be sure to contact a roofer to safely remove them. They will repair the existing damage as well as insulate and ventilate your attic to prevent further damage. 

• Protecting Your Roof Shingles

Although roof shingles are designed to be durable, they may experience wear and tear over time. Temperature changes throughout the year can contribute to cracked roof shingles, leaving your home vulnerable to damage from the elements. To protect your roof shingles from the impact of temperature changes, consider insulating your attic. Attic insulation makes it easier for shingles to maintain an even temperature no matter the time of year. 

Done-Right Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. continues to deliver residential roofing expertise to homeowners in the local area for nearly 30 years. As a GAF Master Elite® Certified roofing contractor, you can count on our team to ensure your roofing system is installed and maintained to provide your home with the utmost protection against the weather.

We’re able to work on a variety of roofing materials, from asphalt shingles to flat roofing materials as well as ensure that they are properly ventilated and insulated. Get in touch with us today at (905) 875-2888, or fill out our contact form to set an appointment.