Will blocking attic roof vents in the winter save me money on my heating bill?

Question

I have a 3 story home and I am looking for ways to save money. I insulated this year, caulked windows, caulked storm windows, sealed up cracks, etc.... I have a large walk in attic, above the third floor, with its own set of stairs and wondered if I sealed the roof vents if it would heat that space making a insulator above the third floor not allowing so much rising heat to escape. Would I be doing more harm than good? I know I have to keep them open in the summer, but what do I need them for in the winter?

Answer 1

If you block those sofit vents you will be able to heat the space, but it will make the attic sweat and the water will condensate under the insulation. That sets you up for mold and mildew problems you don't even want to think about. You need free airflow through the attic all year around. We lived in a subdivision in PA where many of the homes did not have sofit vents, and folks were reroofing homes that were 5 years old, and having sofit vents installed. Our next door neighbor had to have the roof rebuilt completely due to condensation. So don't do it!! You would do better to double up the layer of insulation in your attic. You could also install ceiling fans in your first and second floor, and angle the fans to force the warmer air downwards toward the floors- as opposed to drafting upwards, as in the summer. But definitely don't block your attic vents.

Answer 2

The vents need to remain open. However, if you are looking to save money, make sure the stair way to the attic is insulated well. Make sure the door to the attic seals, and is insulated, if possible. Check the walls surrounding the stairs. If possible, consider laying a piece of plywood, with insulation attached, over the stair well.

The way insulation works in an attic is to create a barrier between the warm house and the cool, moving air in the attic. Rolls of fiberglass can do this, and so can blown cellulose insulation.

Good luck reducing your energy bills.

Answer 3

You should leave the vents open summer and winter.You need the air circulation in that area to prevent moisture build up which will occur and cause problems. You should be well insulated in the ceiling of the third floor not against the roof.If that area was to be finished and lived in then you would insulate the roof and remove the vents and use windows or fans to circulate the air thus preventing moisture build up. Good thoughts wise moves.

Answer 4

You need air flow and air exchange to keep excess moister from building up to cause mold and dry rot, sounds like you could employ a dehumidifier to keep it at about 52%

Answer 5

Never ever block attic roof vents "would i be doin' more harm than good" ?? and the answer is yes

Answer 6

Blocking the vents would be a mistake. The purpose of the vents is to control HUMIDIITY!

Answer 7

depends on where you re located geographically:)

Answer 8

You will suffocate and die - don't do it