How to Estimate Attic Temperatures for Seasonal Ventilation

A home’s attic can be a source of both heating and cooling problems, depending upon how the attic is insulated and whether homeowners use the space wisely to help maintain the home’s heating and cooling systems. In addition, mold and moisture enter the attic if ventilation is poor. One contributing factor is the attic temperatures at different times of year, which can help owners determine seasonal ventilation needs. Estimating and recording the attic temperatures is an important first step in establishing seasonal ventilation.

Indoor thermometers

Instructions

- 1
  Place an indoor thermometer in the center of the attic on the floor.
- 2
  Set an indoor thermometer on or as close to the roof sheathing inside the attic as possible.
- 3
  Leave the thermometers in place for several hours and then write down the temperature for both thermometers. Note the difference in the temperature between the roof sheathing temperature and the attic floor thermometer.
- 4
  Adjust the vents in the attic until the two temperatures match as closely as possible. This will improve air flow and ventilation. Balance the intake and exhaust vents so that half of the venting area is up high near the roof sheathing and the other half is down near the attic floor. High vents act as exhaust ventilation and the low vents act as intake ventilation.
- 5
  Monitor the attic temperatures approximately every three months and adjust the vents in the attic as needed to maintain the temperature and ventilation balance.

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