There are several ways to reduce the amount of heat that builds up on a home’s attic during the summertime and escapes during the wintertime. By reducing the extreme temperatures in a house, the homeowner will save money on utility bills and reduce their impact on the environment. This is especially important for homes in the Katy, Texas area. Unlike other parts of the country, the south has a warmer climate more months of the year. Relative humidity is also higher in Katy than other parts of the country – and even the state. Finding the best solutions for reducing energy costs, making the home more comfortable and doing it affordably are all important factors for homeowners. These methods can be used by themselves or together to reduce the amount of heat trapped in Katy attics.

Radiant Heat Barriers

A radiant heat barrier is sprayed on the interior of a home’s attic either on the ceiling and eaves or on the floor, depending on the layout and design of the house. The energy contained in the sun’s rays that hit the roof and penetrates is called radiant heat. This is what makes attics so hot in the summer. When the sun’s radiant heat is reflected by spray-on barriers, up to 81 percent of the heat will go back up into the air and atmosphere, rather than penetrating the home.

According to statistics, between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., the temperature of an attic in the Katy area runs more than 20 degrees higher than the outdoor temperature. When the outdoor air is 95 degrees F at 3 p.m., the average attic temperature is 125 degrees F. With under insulation and a radiant heat barrier in Katy, the average attic temperature at 3 p.m. is about 82 degrees F.

Insulation

Fiberglass insulation prevents outdoor air from entering the attic and the air indoors from escaping. It typically has a life span of 30 to 40 years and is fire resistant. Using blown-in attic insulation in Katy allows the upper air to be separated from the air in the living space below. With reliable insulation, a home can be more energy efficient by not allowing the hotter air to mix with the comfortable living space area below in the summertime.

Roofing Vents

Air vents on the roof and in the attic prevent the temperature from becoming stagnant. Circulation prevents higher heat. Vents are strategically placed in the home’s roof to reduce heat build-up and help save on energy bills. Unlike drafts left from gaps in the roof structure, vents provide covered exits and fans to assist with circulation while protecting the home from moisture damage.