How Cold Does An Attic Get

Hang pencil and paper next to the thermometer and record the outdoor and attic.

How cold does an attic get. The doe recommends r 49 or better for good energy efficiency and interior. Ideal attic temperature and humidity settings cold outdoor temperatures affect attics. Complete coverage of the attic floor along with sealing air leaks will ensure you get the best performance from your insulation. Hang an outdoor thermometer in your attic making sure its range reaches at least 130 degrees fahrenheit.

Quelch the heat wave. If your attic is too cold it probably lacks sufficient protection from outside temperatures. Attic ventilation is vital to the upkeep of your home so make sure it is installed and functioning correctly. In the summer the attic bears the brunt of the sun s rays and any heat from below rises to the attic.

According to the u s. Rafter vents ensure the soffit vents are clear and there is a channel for outside air to move into the attic at the soffits and out through the gable or ridge vent. Cold outdoor temperatures especially below freezing can wear on your furnace. In the winter drafts from vents and poor insulation result in chilly or ice cold temperatures.

Attic ventilation works on the principle that heated air naturally rises primarily utilizing two types of vents. Department of energy doe the average unimproved attic has just r 19 insulation the insulation value of a five and a half inch thick fiberglass batt. R49 works well in cold climates particularly areas where it s common for businesses and schools to be shut down due to extremely cold temperatures the recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on the insulation type according to energy star. Intake vents located at the lowest part of the roof under the eaves allow cool.