I'm gearing up for an attic renovation in my old New England house, built in the 1800s, and I could really use some advice on insulation options. The attic has striking features—it's partially finished, has steep roof angles, and no insulation currently. There are also two gable vents but no soffit or ridge vents, which has me feeling pretty lost. Considering the roof is relatively new, I'm hesitant about using foam insulation due to potential leak issues. What are my best options for insulation given these constraints?
1 Answer
It's a tough call with those old houses! You'll want to weigh the pros and cons of a "cold roof" versus a "warm roof." For a cold roof, you'd ideally add soffit vents and maybe use foil-faced rigid foam between rafters. If you're going with a warm roof, that involves sealing everything tightly and putting insulation above the roof deck—it’s a bigger job, though. Just be mindful of airflow to prevent mold, especially since the attic will probably see high humidity. Also, don't forget to consult with your local building control office for guidance!
Thanks for the insights! Going for a cold roof seems more feasible considering I don't want to redo the roof anytime soon. The rafters are sturdy enough, so I should be able to get the needed R-value while keeping airflow in mind. How do you suggest installing those soffit vents?