The Best Way to Vent an Attic

Open windows to ventilate the attic naturally. Many moisture-related problems in your attic can be avoided by simply opening windows and other vents in your attic to circulate cool air throughout. Limit natural ventilation when humidity is high, however, to avoid excess moisture buildup inside the attic.

Purchase and install attic fans to improve ventilation further. Attic fans install on vents and work by pulling warm out of the attic and pulling cooler air from the outside into the attic. This approach is not as effective, however, if the attic has blocked soffit vents and if there is not a tight seal between the attic and the home below (the fan pulls air-conditioned air from below the house up into the attic and forces the air conditioner to work harder to keep the home cool).

Maintain ventilation equipment regularly, particularly during warm seasons. This may seem an obvious step, but a great many attic ventilation problems are caused by homeowners' neglect in the form of leaving attic vents blocked by debris, dust or bird's nests or by not maintaining attic fans. Regular preventative maintenance is the most important step in ensuring good attic ventilation.