Summer in Southeast Virginia is hot enough without your attic and basement adding heat to your home. By making some basic improvements in these spaces, you can keep your whole house more comfortable.
Air leaks in your home let in hot, humid outdoor air. Even on mildly warm days, the temperature in your attic can quickly surpass 100 degrees. Air leaks there let that heat into your rooms, but sealing these cracks and gaps can help you stay cool. The access hatch can be sealed with weatherstripping. Acrylic-latex caulk works well for small leaks where extreme heat isn't a concern. To seal around flues and vents, you'll need metal flashing and heat-safe caulk. If you have uninsulated "can" lights, consider replacing them with safer insulated models. Once you've air sealed, upgrade your insulation. If you already have 3 or 4 inches of insulation, add another R-25 to R-38 layer. To keep your basement cooler, added rigid foam insulation to the spaces between the rim joists and seal around the insulation with caulk. Also seal gaps around where wiring or pipes enter from outside.
Sufficient airflow in your attic helps get rid of excess heat. If you have soffit vents, make sure they're not blocked by insulation. If you have only one type of vent, such as only ridge vents or gable vents, you'll benefit from an upgrade. Most attics do best with a ridge-and-soffit system, but each one is different, so consult a technician before you add any vents. In the basement, good airflow cuts down on excess moisture and mold growth, improving the comfort level and air quality throughout your home. The simplest option for improving basement ventilation is to install hopper or awning windows. If you already have windows, but they're in poor condition, replacing them with vinyl models will increase the basement's energy efficiency. To more effectively remove moisture and stale air, consider a basement exhaust system. For tips on improving your attic or basement, talk with us at Russell's Heating & Cooling anywhere around the Hampton Roads area of Southeast Virginia. Our goal is to help educate our customers in Chesapeake, Virginia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about attic and basement improvements and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 757-750-1831. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Artkwin/Shutterstock”