It can be a confusing topic; first, you insulate your home to stay comfortable and reduce utility bills, but then you have vents installed in your attic that let the warm air out, even in the dead of winter. What’s up with that?
A sealed attic will trap excessive heat and moisture, causing extreme heat buildup on the surface of the roof, which can in turn lead to reduced shingle life. Worst yet, the heat buildup is not just a summer concern. In the winter, hot air trapped in the attic can melt snow on the roof during the day, and then refreeze at night, creating ice dams that lead to interior leaking and roof damage
In the summer, heat buildup in the attic can encourage premature aging and cracking in wood and other roofing materials. Unwanted heat can also transfer into living areas, making them uncomfortable and reducing energy efficiency.
In the winter, warm air generated by activities such as laundry, showers, dishwashing, and cooking can cause moisture buildup in the attic.