Why Controlling Moisture and Extreme Temperatures in Your Attic Is So Important

Though it might seem unlikely, your attic could hold the keys to lower energy bills and improved comfort in your home. Because attics are typically not made into “room-rooms” here in Texas, these spaces are often unfinished. Unfortunately, leaving your attic unconditioned could be increasing your heating and cooling costs by 10 percent or more, according to Energy Star!

Below, we’ll explain how your attic’s temperature affects your home, for better or for worse, and what you can do to improve your attic’s condition for a more comfortable, energy-efficient home.

How Your Attic’s Temperature Affects Your Home

Attics can have problems linked to temperature and ventilation during both winter and summer. Due to heat gain, your attic can get up to 50 degrees hotter than the temperature outside! This can be bad news if your HVAC equipment is housed in your attic, as extremely high temperatures can cause the equipment to overheat. Scorching temperatures in your attic can also transfer to the rest of your home, increasing your dependence on your air conditioner.

Lack of ventilation becomes an even more significant problem during the colder months of the year. When it’s chilly outside, heat from your home rises up into your attic and brings moisture with it. If that moisture gets trapped inside your attic, it can create a prime environment for wood rot and mold growth and cause your roof shingles to warp.

Energy-Efficient Attic Improvements For a More Comfortable Home

If it’s been a while since your attic received any attention, consider updating it by making the following home improvements:

• Improving the insulation. Energy codes have gotten stricter over the years, so if you own an older home, its insulation may be out of date and not working as effectively as it could.
• Sealing air leaks. You want good ventilation in your attic--but not through leaks. Air leaks take away your control over your attic’s temperature and humidity. If you’re not sure where air leaks are occurring, bring in an energy audit professional to help you.
• Installing solar attic ventilation. These solar-powered fans help regulate your attic’s temperature during summer and remove moisture during winter.

At Tom's Mechanical, Inc., we’re proud to offer our customers the latest in technology and advanced tools to make their homes the perfect temperature year-round. Learn more about our OptiHome solutions and home performance evaluations by clicking here or calling (972) 388-3669.