So, How Do We Make Your Monster Happy?
Easy – we give it what it likes. This monster likes a cold space, a dry space, a space separated from its downstairs dwellers, and fresh air. But how do we provide these conditions for your monster? By ensuring the three most important aspects of your attic (insulating, air sealing, and ventilating) are optimized.
Insulating
The insulation in your attic is designed to limit thermal transfer between your condi- tioned living space and your unconditioned attic space. Types of insulation used typically include loose-fill or blown- in, 2’x4’ batt, or even spray foam. Older buildings will often have less than optimal levels of insulation due to the building code requirements at the time of construction. Proper insulation can help create a thermal barrier between spaces, increasing comfort and even reduced energy use.
Figure 4: Properly Insulated Attic.
Air Sealing
Attic air sealing is the process of limiting air leakage between your conditioned living space and your unconditioned attic space. Ceiling penetrations such as light fixtures, exhaust fans, the access hatch, and along tops of walls are typi- cal areas of concern. Ensuring these ceiling penetrations are sealed will help create a successful and functional air separation between the two spaces. Air sealing is typically provided by your drywall ceiling and/or a vapour control layer on top of your drywall ceiling.
Other key air control measures include making sure your bath- rooms and clothes dryer fans exhaust to the outside and are not pumping hot, humid air into your attic!
Figure 5: Common Sources of Air Leakage.
2019/2020 - 4 — 15
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker