TWIN CITIES WEST Blog

Baffled by Baffles? Why Insulation Ventilation Matters.

Insulation is an important component of any home. It’s essentially a barrier that prevents the movement of heat into your home in the summer and out of your home in the winter. You can insulate your walls and floors to enjoy a more comfortable home and lower utility bills.

But when it comes to insulating your attic, things can be a bit more complicated. You need insulation ventilation in order to achieve proper air flow. To do that, you have to have baffles installed.

Confused? Keep reading! Here, we’ll answer the question, “What are baffles?” Then, we’ll explain exactly how they work!

What Are Baffles?

Attic baffles are sometimes called rafter vents, insulation baffles, or wind baffles. In most cases, they are made of a stiff foam board, poly-vinyl chloride, or cardboard. They are installed in your attic to provide a pathway or channel for air to flow through parts of your attic where lack of air flow is a problem.

Even if your attic is very well-insulated, you may need attic baffles to improve air flow. When you have baffles installed, they draw air in from outside, then allow that fresh air to circulate through the open space in your attic. Baffles may be located any place where additional air circulation is desired.

Why Is Air Circulation Important in Your Attic?

Do you associate words like “damp” or “musty” with your attic? That could be the result of a lack of good air circulation!

Without circulation, moisture can build up in your attic. This can lead to mold and mildew issues. Fortunately, that is a problem that can be prevented with good air ventilation and movement.

If poor air circulation is allowed to go untreated, even worse problems can arise. Lack of air flow can lead to rotten wood and structural damage in your attic. This can be made worse if the attic in your insulation has been improperly installed.

Again, the solution is simple. Having the right insulation properly installed along with attic baffles where they are needed will prevent or eradicate air flow related issues.

Once this is done, air can flow underneath and around the insulation to keep things dry, while preventing rot and odors.

Soffit Vents and Insulation Ventilation

Soffit vents play an important part in all of this air flow, too. These are vents that are installed on the underside of the eave of the lowest part of the roof.

You need soffit vents in order to provide the outside air that flows through your baffles. These vents also provide an exit point for moist air that might otherwise accumulate in your attic.

How to Best Ventilate my Attic

Rafter vents are fairly easy to install, but many homeowners choose to have them installed at the same time they hire a trusted contractor to insulate their attic space. That’s because it’s very important to ensure that the attic insulation, baffles, and soffit vents work together to ensure proper air flow!

Are you interested in an insulation evaluation? Book a free consultation with Koala Insulation of Twin Cities West today!