June 2005
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Ridge vents in roof help cool temperature in attic
As published in the Atlanta Journal Constitution 06/15/04 By: Bill Garwood
Every year, with the arrival of hot weather and humid air, customers ask the best ways to cool their attics and reduce air-conditioning bills. The answers I give often surprise them.
Current codes require that attics be ventilated. And even though ventilating a 120-degree attic with 90-degree air does relatively little to cool the space, any drop in temperature is good.
If you are thinking about adding ventilation, consider a ridge vent, which is installed along the peak of the roof. These vents are most effective because they are located at the highest point in the attic where hot air rises and collects.
Another question I often get concerns power ventilators. These are usually a poor solution to hot attics for two reasons. First, the power vent fans often use more energy than they save. Second, the fans discharge too much air from the attic. As the air pressure in the attic tries to equalize, hot air off the roof can be drawn into the attic from passive roof vents, or already cooled air may be drawn into the attic from holes in the ceiling, such as recessed light fixtures or vent pipes.
The best way to reduce the cost of cooling your house is to seal the
hidden air leaks between your living space and attic. Hidden air
leaks are commonly found around recessed light fixtures, pull-down
stairways or scuttle holes, dropped soffits above wall cabinets, and
chases (enclosed pathways) for duct work and
plumbing.
Small holes around light fixtures and exposed vents can be sealed
with caulk or expandable foam available at a hardware or home
improvement store. Larger holes like soffits and chases can usually
be sealed by installing a piece of plywood or foam board at one end
of the opening to block the air flow through the
channel. Consider installing a foam board box over your pull-down
stairway or scuttle hole. I have seen many creative boxes
constructed by homeowners.
You should also consider upgrading the insulation above your
ceiling. Depending upon the type, 9 to 14 inches of insulation is
preferable.