
INSULATION AND VENTILATION
One of the most important parts of your home is not generally seen.
Insulation has been installed in walls and ceilings according to
manufacturer's recommendations. Check to make sure the insulation
in the attic is kept dry. Watch for areas of moisture. Ventilation
will prevent reduction of the insulating values due to moisture.
Proper attic ventilation has been provided in your home and it is
very important that the venting system function as designed. Proper
ventilation helps to cool the attic during the summer and reduces
condensation and ice dam accumulation in the winter. Vents should
be cleaned occasionally and should never by painted shut or covered
with insulation.
Settling or shrinkage may occur in time and may slightly reduce the
effectiveness of the insulation. For this reason, allowances are
normally made at the time of installation to achieve specified
insulation value after a period of settlement. In the event you
wish to work under the roof and you have blown insulation, be careful
to avoid disturbing the insulation resulting in heat loss.
Wall and ceiling insulation is normally protected with a covering
layer of vapor barrier material, to prevent water vapor from penetrating
the insulation and wood framing. Avoid penetration of the vapor barrier
as much as possible. Water vapor will eventually migrate through the
outside walls.
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