The attic is often one of the worst culprits for energy loss in North Texas homes. You may know that insulation prevents energy loss through the ceiling, but did you know leaks in your attic may be letting in moisture and letting out expensive conditioned air?

Attic sealing can increase your home’s performance and, by preventing moist environments conducive to microbial growth, can improve your indoor air quality. Attic sealing also closes up leaks that waste energy. Even if your attic is insulated, air leaks can still be a problem.

Attics can only be efficient and safe if topped by a strong, weatherproof roof. A poor quality roof may develop leaks that let in water, leading to mold growth and pest infestations, ruining insulation and causing property damage. Invest in a good roof to protect your home for years to come.

Roof leaks aren’t the only way moisture gets in. Household vents, such as bathroom fans, frequently direct moisture straight into the attic, instead of exhausting it outside. During attic sealing, your contractor can:

• Isolate leaks. Anyplace the attic floor/ceiling of the house is penetrated is a potential leak. The areas around plumbing or lighting fixtures, chimneys, ductwork, wiring and attic hatches are all vulnerable. Insulation may cover up some of these leaks, but air can still pass through, so it’s a good idea to do attic sealing before adding insulation.
• Seal leaks. Materials that can help seal attic leaks include caulk, spray foam, weather-stripping, and high-temperature caulk or aluminum sheeting for fireproof sealing around chimneys.
• Install efficient barriers. Preventing energy loss between the top floor of the house and the attic is important to stop humidity from getting in and energy from leaking out.

After sealing, ask about ways to further increase attic efficiency. Installing a radiant barrier, which prevents solar gain by “bouncing” the sun’s heat instead of allowing the attic to absorb it, is a good option for North Texas homeowners.

For attic sealing done right the first time, contact Crawford Services. We’re happy to help you make the most of your energy dollars.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, click here to download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Crawford Services provides heating, air conditioning and plumbing services to all of North Texas. To get started, check out our website or see our special offers.