Problems?
COOL YOUR ATTIC !
Now that the summer heat is over, let's talk about getting into your attic! Many of us have attics that we wouldn't even dream of entering during the heat of a summer day unless it was absolutely necessary. But what if your attic was cool on that hot day?
It is possible!
There are very common materials and methods used to keep the attic and home cool such as a radiant barrier, attic ventilation and insulation. However, there is a science to how these things work and they must be installed properly to get the best effect. For example, a radiant barrier will not work if the foil is touching the insulation and the attic vents will not cool your attic if the outside conditions are humid or very hot. The insulation does not work properly if it is not filling the insulation cavity completely.
Effectively build your house in the shade to keep your attic cool by venting your roof system instead of your attic. In 3 simple steps, use a radiant barrier on the bottom of your roof decking. With an air baffle, create a vented air channel from the soffit to the ridge that is next to the radiant barrier. Use blown in or spray foam insulation in your roof system under the air baffle and your attic will be insulated, cool and dry! This method keeps the heat from touching your insulation and is one of the best ways in our climate to stay cool!
So now the weather getting cooler, it is a great time to retro fit your attic. If you are remodeling your home or building a new home, contact us to learn more about these sustainable building details.
Design Tip:
Did you know that you can get points on your Green Building Rating by using a recycled material in your home?
Cellulose insulation is a great example of a recycled material to use in your home. It is made from about 80% post-consumer recycled newspaper and treated with fire retardants and insect control additives. Choose cellulose that is treated with borates for the best indoor air quality. Another great example is Denim batt insulation made from 85% post-industrial recycled natural cotton fibers. It is a 0-VOC product and meets the highest ASTM testing standards for fire and smoke ratings. Look at the Green Building website in the Sustainable Source book for reputable insulation contractors.
Check out our website for more helpful tips!
Contact Cammi Klier at 512.330.9309
or cklier@cdshomedesign.com
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