Function: Attic insulation slows the rate of heat loss from a house, which is a very critical component in northern climates.  It will also make the house easier to air-condition, in the summer months.  Ventilation provides the means of air flow where the cold side of the insulation is ventilated to remove moisture laden air in the winter months & excess heat in the summer months.

What We Look At:  Almost every house could use some improvement to the insulation & ventilation systems.  How does the current attic insulation and ventilation compare to new house standards?  Have any problems been caused by a lack of insulation/ventilation?   (For more information see   

Typical problems we see are: High fuel bills due to lack of adequate insulation; moisture problems & deteriorated roof components due to inadequate ventilation (many times extra insulation is added to the attic, but in the process the soffit vents become blocked, creating moisture related problems!); damaged interior ceiling & wall areas; etc.

 

   
Some Examples Of Attic Insulation & Ventilation Problems We've Encountered

(Click on the thumbnail image to enlarge)

     

insulventingpics_1.jpg (136029 bytes) insulventingpics_2.jpg (111361 bytes) insulventingpics_3.jpg (116190 bytes)

Improper ventilation has caused a

moisture buildup problem in this attic,

which has begun to deteriorate the 

roof decking.

It is common to see bird nesting

material blocking roof vents.  Roof vents

should be kept open to allow proper airflow

through the attic.

Newly installed fiberglass insulation, where

the homeowner blocked off all the

perimeter soffit vents.

   

            

puregold.gif (5235 bytes)

    

puregoldtext.gif (2587 bytes)

 

About DSP | The Home Inspection Process | Other Services | Comments From Our Customers

         Resources For Buyers & Sellers | Real Estate Professionals | Contact Us | Home

                             DSP  Structural Consultants, LLC   (c)1998 - 2000