Although they aren t found in all residential and commercial attics baffles offer several unique benefits that are found elsewhere.
Purpose of attic baffles.
It is a fairly easy process that will make a world of difference in assisting your insulation and keeping your home protected from rot which can save you a substantial amount of money down the road.
Attic baffles play an important role keeping your home comfortable and safe.
An attic baffle is simply an item to regulate the flow of air aka required roof venting and impede it the insulation from interfering with each other.
From left to right air flows through the soffit vents up over the baffles allowing for the required roof venting.
Proper air circulation in the attic is all about preventing moisture buildup.
To make it easy to eyeball how level the material is as you blow it in screw depth guides to joists throughout the space.
They keep space clear so fresh air can flow from the soffits under your roof eaves to the vents at or near the top of your roof illustrated by the red arrow above.
Sometimes called rafter vents baffles provide ventilation and keep the insulation from blocking airflow through your attic.
Air circulation is crucial especially in the attic.
The picture below courtesy of the epa indoor airplus program which we provide builder verification services for helps show how the system works.
Rafter vents may also be known as insulation baffles because they are generally installed as part of the insulating process.
You can situate the baffles where the circulation is mainly required.
Attic baffles how they work.
Why attic baffles are so baffling.
During the summer soffit and gable vents draw.
These foam or plastic channels are installed between the rafters in an attic to create an air space between insulation materials and the rafters.
Installing them in your attic can improve ventilation by encouraging proper airflow through the attic.
How important is using baffles in attic insulation.
The main function of an attic baffle is to draw the air in from outside your home and allowing it to circulate around your attic.
That airflow is intended to churn the stale air in your attic which helps to remove moisture and control the temperature of your attic.
Fasten blocking around the hatch or door to allow the material to be installed around this area without escaping.
Some people assume baffles serve no real purpose but this simply isn t true.
Make sure the fill s depth is uniform across the attic.