Ventilation from natural wind movement through ridge vents and soffit vents will help keep your attic and home cooler. Proper attic insulation and a whole house fan can also save energy costs and add to your comfort.
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Determining insulation needs can be tackled with help from the Department of Energy. Try these resources to understand what is needed to bring your insulation r values up to minimum code or higher.
These manufacturer websites offer superb information about ridge vents and soffit vents and a look at an amazing array of attic ventilation products.
Cool your home with a whole house fan when humidity is not high. The trick is coordinating the proper windows to open with the fan to create a comforting breeze. Read these tips on choosing velocity for your whole house fan, some simple maintenance and consider a timer for the most comfort with whole house fan ventilation.
Manufacturers of whole house fans are varied in size. This list of companies and table of whole house fan capacities are geared to help your decision process.
Whole house fan installation can usually be accomplished with minimal attic alterations. Size your whole house fan properly for good ventilation, provide proper exhaust area and adhere to correct electrical code. If you have blown in insulation, follow these tips to install your whole house fan and keep your insulation in place.
A weathervane or cupola can add a distinctive touch to your home. Weathervanes should be balanced or they will not function well. Cupolas can serve both as decorative architectural features as well as provide vital attic ventilation.
Installing a cupola is not the easiest task. Some cupolas come with great instructions, others not. You must match the roof pitch, center the cupola, add flashing and blocks, ... and take great care up on the roof!
Looking for weathervanes or a cupola to decorate or ventilate your home? Try lumber yards, home centers and the internet. I've listed some companies with amazing selections and information.
Continuous ventilation is extremely important to avoid roof rot, reduce heating and cooling costs, and to maintain warranties of some asphalt shingles. Why was attic ventilation never an issue in older homes? Building practices have changed. If you are building new or updating an older home, give your home "lungs" to breathe through air exchange in roof or ridge vents and soffit vents.
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