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Expert Q Ren Molnar Q&A Archive
Top > Vents > General

Question:

We have a bungalow built in the 50s. I think some insulation was put in the attic in the mid 70s - not sure. I am not sure that there is enough insulation and that there is proper air circulation. I don't know what is needed. Who would give advice and an estimate.

Answer:

Ventilation of the attic cavity must exist on the upper part of the roof and via the soffits. It is nearly impossible to over ventilate the average residential attic. It is as important for air to have access to the cavity from under the eaves as it is for air to have an opportunity to exhaust as high up on the roof as possible. Proper soffit venting in combination with “U” channels and gable-to-gable baffled ridge venting appears to be the most cost effective, passive way of accomplishing this. Insulation should be not less than R-40 and could be much greater. Most insulation contractors suggest R-40 but there is no such thing as too much insulation provided ventilation has not been compromised.

Answered By: Ren Molnar

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