Use Cool Roof Or Add Insulation

A cool roof reflects the sun s energy reducing rooftop temperatures.

Use cool roof or add insulation.

Cool roofs can be made of a highly reflective type of paint a sheet covering or highly reflective tiles or shingles. A cool roof under the same conditions could stay more than 50 f cooler and save energy and money by using less air conditioning. Hack n stack sealed foam board between the rafters would be better since it s at least an air impermeable insulation but even that would require a vent gap below the roof deck to meet code and you d still be under r38 on that 2x6 rafters unless you. Ultimately attic insulation does help you stay cool in summer.

The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. If you re not getting enough airflow from your ac in upstairs bedrooms adding insulation might only solve part of your problem. Standard or dark roofs can reach temperatures of 150 f or more in the summer sun. Before installing or adding attic insulation take these steps.

Every home is different and requires a unique set of fixes. Insulation condensation and repairs improper insulation whether the roof is a reflective or dark membrane may cause condensation and will need a repair. Dark surfaces also contribute to the urban heat island effect. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type.

But it s not necessarily an end all be all solution. Use caulk and expanding foam the fire blocking type sealant to close air gaps around pipes ducts and electrical wires where they enter the attic. While a sunlight absorbing black roof can reach up to 190 f in the summer a reflective roof s temperature can be as much as 60 f lower. The airflow from the soffits to the ridge vent keeps the roof cool and prevents ice dams and the material will block that flow.

Use the fire blocking type. For the same reason insulation shouldn t touch the roof s underside. Rigid foam panels are available in thickness. Cut and fit strips of 24 gauge sheet metal between the masonry chimney and the surrounding wood framing.

Staple plastic or foam baffles to the roof sheathing near the eaves to keep the material away. Batts between rafters in would require adding ventilation between the insulation roof deck. Use rigid foam insulation panels on your flat roof before applying the final roof covering or inside the house before adding sheetrock or paneling. In many cases with a leaking roof just adding a cool roof will repair the roof and waterproof it for decades.