Attic Ventilation Problems

No Attic Exhaust Fans

• Many attics are designed to use natural ventilation techniques that work on rising heat and wind circulating around the exterior of your house. If your home's roof structure or local conditions prevent the use of these methods, the Facts Facts website says that power ventilation must be utilized. Attic exhaust fans require electricity, but they can circulate air and lower attic temperatures in structures where simple vents are not enough. If your home requires an attic exhaust fan and you do not operate it, the rafters and insulation of your roof can become damaged.

Insufficent Vents

• Natural attic ventilation requires the installation of the proper amount of vents in specific locations in your attic. Soffit vents installed along the base of the roof bring in fresh air, according to Ask the Builder, but ridge or slope vents located at the top of the roof must also be installed. These higher vents allow rising hot air to escape. The number of vents required to properly maintain an attic is calculated based on the square footage of the attic itself. If you determine that your attic is lacking in vents, you should install more before the next hot and humid summer season.

Lack of Vapor Retarder

• Houses that produce a high amount of humidity and moisture, as well as those located in humid climates, may require a special vapor retarder, according to Old House Web. These appliances absorb moisture and work much like a dehumidifier on a larger scale. If you are constantly running appliances like dryers and dishwashers without venting them outdoors, a vapor retarder will prevent mold and mildew from growing in your insulation. However, this appliance alone cannot create much air circulation, which is required to lower high summer temperatures.

Clogged Vents

• Attics with plenty of vents will still become extremely hot and humid if these vents become clogged. Soffit vents are often clogged with dust and dirt, according to Block the Heat, and are easily cleaned on single story homes from the ground. Ridge and slope vents are less likely to be clogged, but if improperly designed, leaves and sticks may block airflow. These vents must be cleaned from the roof or inside the attic.