Insulating an Attic Roof: Is It a Good Idea?

When it comes to keeping your roof in good condition, proper attic insulation is essential. Not only can it help prevent ice accumulations and condensation, but it may also be a requirement of your building codes. Installing insulation of a higher quality than what is required can be beneficial for your home. However, when it comes to insulating the roof itself, this can do more harm than good. Most roofers will advise against roof insulation and instead suggest attic floor insulation and attic ventilation.

This is the common practice for an unfinished attic. The exception to this rule is when families choose to convert an unfinished attic into something usable or habitable. In this case, insulating the roof can be advantageous as it will help regulate the temperature and save energy due to more efficient air conditioning. Duct leaks are also common in attics that aren't sealed. According to North Dakota State University Extension, installing insulation on the roof deck is a much more difficult process that is likely to require the intervention of a contractor.

Insulating your attic, attic, or flat roof is an effective way to reduce heat loss and lower heating bills. You may be insulated to some extent on the roof, but your house is much more likely to be insulated on the roof and not on the roof, than vice versa. If you are going to install loft insulation yourself, keep in mind that you may need to increase ventilation. If the loft is difficult to access, you can ask a professional to install the blow insulation, who will use specialized equipment to inject the appropriate insulating material into any awkward space. Unfortunately, if you only insulate between the beams before doing this, the insulation will not be thick enough. The insulation of flat roofs always requires professional insulation and wet roofs require a professional evaluation before the works can be carried out. All the time and work that your air conditioning system devotes to heating your home is wasted if you have an insulating roof because the heat is lost in the attic.

Victor Mosbarger
Victor Mosbarger

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