Attic Ventilation

Baffles keep insulation dry and allow good air flow.

Energy Facts:

Proper ventilation can lower the attic temperature by as much as 50°F, which significantly reduces the home's cooling demands.
Ridge and soffit vents help keep the attic space well-ventilated, preventing a build-up of moisture and reducing heat in summer. These vents can prolong the life of the roof.

Scout It Out: Does your home have venting devices such as soffit and ridge vents from the attic to the exterior? Are your soffit or eave vents properly baffled to keep insulation from blocking airflow? Ideally, any soffit baffles will also be sealed at the edges with caulk.

Tips:

If your attic has no ventilation or blocked soffit or eave vents, consult a trusted builder or remodeler to correct these problems.
Attic ridge vents can blow off in high winds and provide a hole for water entry. Baffled ridge vents are preferred over other types because they prevent airflow and wind-driven rain from entering the attic through the ridge vent. You may want to consider a new baffled ridge vent if you live in an area with frequent storm activity.
Soffit and eave vents are important air passageways, so don't allow insulation to block them. Baffles installed along the roof sheathing can provide a rigid barrier between the insulation and the vents to keep air flowing.