Use Cool Roof Or Add Insulation

Use caulk and expanding foam the fire blocking type sealant to close air gaps around pipes ducts and electrical wires where they enter the attic.

Use cool roof or add insulation. Every home is different and requires a unique set of fixes. A cool roof under the same conditions could stay more than 50 f cooler and save energy and money by using less air conditioning. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. If you re not getting enough airflow from your ac in upstairs bedrooms adding insulation might only solve part of your problem.

When adding additional insulation you do not have to use the same type of insulation that currently exists in your. Ultimately attic insulation does help you stay cool in summer. Cool roofs can be made of a highly reflective type of paint a sheet covering or highly reflective tiles or shingles. While a sunlight absorbing black roof can reach up to 190 f in the summer a reflective roof s temperature can be as much as 60 f lower.

Rigid foam panels are available in thickness. Dark surfaces also contribute to the urban heat island effect. Batts between rafters in would require adding ventilation between the insulation roof deck. But it s not necessarily an end all be all solution.

Staple plastic or foam baffles to the roof sheathing near the eaves to keep the material away. A cool roof reflects the sun s energy reducing rooftop temperatures. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type. Cut and fit strips of 24 gauge sheet metal between the masonry chimney and the surrounding wood framing.

Standard or dark roofs can reach temperatures of 150 f or more in the summer sun. The airflow from the soffits to the ridge vent keeps the roof cool and prevents ice dams and the material will block that flow. For the same reason insulation shouldn t touch the roof s underside. When you find out the r values of your insulation either from an energy assessment the home builder or your own inspection you can then use the home energy saver tool to determine how much insulation you should add and where you should add it for maximum energy efficiency.

Insulation condensation and repairs improper insulation whether the roof is a reflective or dark membrane may cause condensation and will need a repair. Before installing or adding attic insulation take these steps. Use rigid foam insulation panels on your flat roof before applying the final roof covering or inside the house before adding sheetrock or paneling. Add the right kind of insulation.