Your home has been hit by a recent storm, you’ve bought a new home or you’re doing regular maintenance – whatever the reason, you’ve decided to have a roof inspection. Have you considered an attic inspection as well? Attics are much more than just an empty space. They hold key information about leaks, structural integrity and energy efficiency – information that can be difficult to discern from a roof inspection alone.
Your attic should be inspected twice a year, in the spring and fall. There are more obvious signs of potential damage that you can look for on your own: black mold, mice droppings, water stains and loose bathroom exhaust fans. However, professionals can offer a much more in-depth attic inspection. Not only do they look for evidence past or current damage but they also measure insulation and look for proper ventilation. Hiring a professional also means you don’t have to be the one crawling around in the attic!
Let’s take a closer look at what a professional inspection covers.
Insulation
The attic is one of the only places where your insulation can actually be inspected. This is important because the insulation in your attic can greatly affect the energy efficiency of your home. The quality, depth and condition of the insulation is all evaluated during your attic inspection. It is recommended to have an average of 10 to 12 inches of insulation in the attic or enough to cover the floor joists. It is also possible to have too much insulation! An over-insulated attic will trap moisture and heat, leading to mold.
Ventilation
It may seem counterintuitive but allowing fresh air from the outdoors is incredibly important for your attic. A well-ventilated attic will remove heat and/or moisture year-round. Typically, vents are installed in the lower portion of the attic to allow air in, as well as in the upper part of the attic to let hot air and humidity out. During an inspection, your roofing professional will also evaluate your attic’s ventilation and make any recommendations necessary to improve its function.
Leaks and Water Damage
Want to look for roof leaks? Don’t wait till you see it on your ceiling – the best place to look is in the attic. Leaks are sneaky – water damage will sometimes hide and be difficult to identify. Inspectors will look for signs of potential leaks including:
- Stained framing
- Watermarks
- Insulation that is matted or changed in textured
- Excessive humidity
- Discoloration
- Bulging walls or ceiling
- Mold and mildew growth
Other Damage
Attics are one of the few places where you can see the frame of a home, making it an ideal place to assess damage. Inspectors will look for structural, fire and pest damage as well as check the construction and wood quality.
Why is it important?
The attic holds clues to the health and longevity of your home. It’s the first line of defense, making it an important place to check for any past or current damage. Regular attic inspections can help you catch any issues early and save money in the long run.
At American Roofing & Waterproofing, we go over the top to make sure that your attic, as well as your roof, is in tip-top shape. If you’re ready for an inspection, give us a call at (602) 314-4650.
