Attic

The attic of the home is the upper most portion of the dwelling, which still remains on the interior. Attics are often used by homeowners for storage and sometimes finished for additional living space if construction style allows and unfortunately even when it doesn't. When an attic is unfinished and accessible the inspector can inspect for the quality of the construction, the insulation, water penetration, venting, pest or rodent entry and exposed electrical hazards. An inspector will always point out that when an attic is finished he/she will not be able to inspect the enclosed areas. Your inspector will be looking for signs that may indicate hidden problems as well as a safe and professional finishing job which will not interfere with the venting and insulation systems of the home.

Attic Insulation
The insulation in the attic area retards the warm or cool air from escaping the living area. One of the least expensive and easiest ways to reduce heating and cooling costs is to properly insulate the attic area. The inspector will identify the type of insulation used, its condition and how well it has been installed. Most modern construction is insulated with fiberglass rolls or bats. Up to twelve inches may be advised for maximum effectiveness. Some older types of insulation such as: rock wool, vermiculite, and cellulose can be ineffective and possibly a fire hazard. Many non-professionals will install insulation into the soffits or against the roof sheathing between the rafters. These types of installations will be pointed out because they can cause damage to the building materials.

Click Here to Find out if you have the Right Amount of Insulation in Your Home

Sheathing
The roof sheathing is normally visible from the attic area. The sheathing is the material used over the rafters but under the roofing finished material. The most common type of sheathing used is plywood. It adds structural strength to the building and if kept dry has a very long life expectancy. Plywood and other laminated woods can sustain substantial damage if roof leaks are not repaired or poor venting causes condensation. Older homes and homes with exotic heavy roofs may be sheathed with wood planks. This type of sheathing is expensive but extremely durable. It is less prone to water damage because the boards used are whole pieces rather than glued or laminated and because they are smaller they allow air movement more easily, which helps prevent condensation damage. The inspector will be looking carefully for signs of roof leaks and condensation damage, which can be costly to repair.

Ventilation
Attic venting is another very inexpensive way to reduce energy costs, prolong roof life, and make the living space more comfortable. Non-professionals can often overlook adequate ventilation in the attic area. Many homeowners cover the attic vents in the winter to conserve heat and forget to remove the covering in the summer, which reduces roof life and cause massive damage to the sheathing and insulation. Attic venting can be passive such as soffit and gable vents, or it can be power assisted such as an attic roof fan. Power venting of the attic is the best way to quickly remove moisture and heat build up, but it must be checked carefully that it has adequate passive vents to allow air to pass through rather than draw from the living space. The inspector will carefully note the type of ventilation and make recommendations on whether or not improvements or alterations are required.

Click here for a ventilation diagram