Roofs And Attics

Assessments in addition to checking for structural problems check the condition of the roof framing sheathing finish and the soffit and fascia for signs of moisture problems such as leaks stains mould flaking or rot.

Roofs and attics.

An attic may also be called a sky parlor or a garret. While some attics are converted into bedrooms home offices or attic apartments complete with windows and staircases most remain. Silverboard is a high density rigid insulation board that can be used for attics and roofs. Box out light fixtures.

When the board edges are taped it can function as a vapor barrier eliminating the need for a dedicated membrane. After you air seal openings in the attic floor and cover it with an appropriate amount of insulation nature does the rest. Because attics fill the space between the ceiling of the top floor of a building and the slanted roof they are known for being awkwardly shaped spaces with exposed rafters and difficult to reach corners. Insulating in and around your roof attic space also prevents long term damage from moisture build up or ice damming which results from the warm air trying to escape through the apex of the roof but instead heating up the snow.

Water is insulation s enemy. Vented attics with insulation on the floor are marvels of nature and man. Your roof vents may not look anything like the ones shown in this article. Here are four signs of an unventilated or under ventilated attic.

Roof attic structure water stains were found under the chimney this is caused from a flashing leak around the exterior of the chimney. Learn about the benefits prop. The exception is older shake roofs. If you can see out water may be able to find its way in.

If you don t see any attic vents on the roof or in the eaves you need to add some. An attic is a space found directly below the pitched roof of a house or other building. You can sometimes see daylight through them without finding signs of leakage. Look at your eaves and roof.

It creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew and ruins the air trapping pockets that block heat flow. Look for water stains on the roof sheathing or damp or moldy spots on attic joists and existing insulation as a clue to where leaks might be. Rising as it warms air flows up from the eaves and out of ridge or gable vents carrying off moisture that may have migrated from living spaces. Every home has a roof but is every roof properly ventilated to prevent premature roof deterioration or roofing system failure.

That keeps your attic dry and reduces ice dams. Water stains found in the attic are common because there is always a small amount of water that will enter thru a roof vent or a ridge vent. Attics or roofs without a working space are covered later in this chapter in section 5 4 cramped attics cathedral ceilings and flat roofs.