Many of us don’t spend a lot of time in our attics. In fact, we may think little of them outside of storing the holiday decorations. While we don’t often utilize our attic, potential problems there could impact the quality of your life throughout the rest of your home. These problems can lead to allergens in your home. They can also affect the temperatures of your home, leading to potentially higher energy bills. Therefore, it is essential to keep an eye out for minor issues in the attic to avoid them becoming larger, more costly issues.
Common Attic Problems
It is recommended that you check over your attic at least twice a year. The best time to do so is in the spring and fall. The potential issues vary but are usually caused by one or two factors that can easily be cared for by a professional. These issues include:
- Drafts. If you notice a draft in your home, you’ll want to start your investigation in your attic first. Often, problems in the attic will trickle down into the rest of your home, so it is best to start at the top and work your way down. A draft can drive up the cost of your energy bill. In addition, you’ll want to check for unusual temperature changes and cold spots.
- Moisture. Accumulation of moisture is typical in cold temperatures, so it’s imperative to check for this specific issue after the long winter months. However, it isn’t just weather — household appliances can also cause moisture. Humidifiers, washing machines, dishwashers, showers, and other appliances all release moisture into the air. Even if these appliances are in different places of the home, the moisture can still travel up and become trapped.
- Poor Ventilation. Proper ventilation increases energy efficiency in your home. You’ll want to make sure that your air vents, attic fans, or roof vents are free of any debris or damage.
- Pests. These unwelcome guests can find different ways into your home. They are often in search of a secluded, warm place to stay. The primary issue with pests is the potentially dangerous germs that they carry on their skin and in their excrement. In addition, pest droppings can get into vents, leading to potential allergies or other respiratory issues for you and your family.
How Do These Problems Arise?
When it comes to most of these problems, there is one place to start — your insulation. The quality of your insulation can be impacted by various factors, such as the age of the insulation, the presence of pests, and potential ice damage. Poor insulation can result in mold and mildew. Uneven insulation can lead to drafts or improper airflow. Gaps in your insulation can provide the perfect amount of room for pests to sneak in.
What Can I Do?
It is important to remember to give your attic a look over at least twice a year. This will help you to notice any changes that weren’t there on your previous inspection. Listen for chirping, squeaking, and scratching to catch any potential pest problems. Walk around to feel any areas where the temperature changes or areas where you notice moisture buildup. If you see any of these issues, you’ll want to find a trusted professional to ensure that your problems are properly dealt with. A professional will know exactly how much insulation you need and how to balance the coverage of that insulation. They will also know how to handle any pests or damage best. When it comes to preventing attic problems, all you need is a diligent eye and a professional’s help when issues are found.
