Despite being located in one of the most beautiful parts of Oklahoma, Broken Arrow still faces some challenges when it comes to protecting homes from harsh elements. Attic ventilation helps, but only if you make sure your ventilation is optimally designed by avoiding a few common misconceptions.
Myth: Only homes in warm climates truly need attic ventilation.
Fact: Ventilation is important in all climates, but contrary to popular belief, it's even more important in climates with frequent periods of cold weather. Cool, damp weather increases the risk of moisture buildup in your attic, which can lead to mold growth. Ventilation removes this moisture, protecting your attic from damage.
Myth: One or two attic vents is enough.
Fact: Don't assume your attic was built with adequate ventilation because many attics aren't. Passive ventilation systems, including gable vents, soffit vents and turbine vents don't always provide sufficient air exchange. This is especially true if your roof cavity isn't properly insulated. Attic baffles don't always help and are often unnecessary.
Myth: Attics need as much airflow as possible.
Fact: In most attics, 1 sq. ft. of ventilation for every 300 sq. ft. of ceiling space is enough ventilation. Much more than this and you risk creating uncontrolled air leaks. The open spaces in your attic walls may also leave your roof vulnerable to wind damage.
Myth: Powered fans are ideal for providing continuous airflow.
Fact: While these fans can help in some cases, they're not a one-size-fits-all solution. When used, it's essential to seal any air leaks around the attic hatch, dropped soffits and recessed lights. Otherwise, the fan can suck air from rooms into your attic, wasting energy.
Myth: Attic vents make it harder to heat your home during the winter.
Fact: Air sealing and insulation can minimize the amount of heat that enters your rooms, so a cold attic won't make your home cold. It can also prevent ice dams that may damage your roof.
For professional guidance on assessing and optimizing your attic ventilation, contact Air Assurance in the Broken Arrow area.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Enrique Ramos/Shutterstock”