A poorly constructed attic or roof assembly can lead to excessive energy loss, ice buildup, mold, rot and unnecessary homeowner difficulties. A vented attic, where insulation is placed on an air-sealed attic floor works in all climates, when executed properly.

About Attic Venting

In a cold climate like Calgary, the primary purpose of attic ventilation is to maintain a cold roof temperature and avoid ice dams, other moisture related problems and extend the life of your shingles.

During warmer months in summer, the primary purpose of attic ventilation is to expel solar-heated hot air from the attic or roof to reduce the building’s cooling load and to relieve the strain on air-conditioning.

The key benefit of venting the attic is that the approach is the same regardless of the roof construction. It doesn’t matter how many hips, valleys, dormers, or gables there are. It’s also easier and often less expensive to pile on fiberglass or cellulose insulation at the attic floor to hit target R-values than it is to achieve a comparable R-value in the roof plane.

The success of venting your attic depends on the ceiling of the top level of the house being airtight before any insulation is installed. It’s equally important that there isn’t anything in the attic except insulation and air. Your attic can be used for storage, but only if you build an elevated platform above the insulation. Otherwise, the insulation gets compressed, which diminishes its R-value.


IMPORTANT: Never cover attic soffit vents with insulation. Instead, use rafter vents and soffit vents to maintain airflow.


Improve Attic Ventilation

Depending on your building style and roof shape, you will have some sort of attic space. Attics are often cold and damp spaces that can impact the warmth and comfort levels of the rest of your house. Proper attic venting can turn your attic into a much more useful space.

Don’t let your attic become a resented and potentially damaged space in your home. Utilize professional attic ventilation professionals to save your attic space from harsh weather and make your home more comfortable.

Our team has years of experience designing, developing and installing attic ventilation systems for residential clients across Calgary and surrounding areas. Call us today for your attic insulation and ventilation needs. Our team can help find and determine ways of improving your attic ventilation and insulation system.


Fact: Homeowners can save up to 10% on their energy bill by sealing and insulating your home. More info here.