Why do we still have attics?

Question

I know that sounds silly, but I just wondered. In any newer home (in like the past 25 years) you can't use the attic because it's full of insulation and such.

Why don't they make attics like they used to? With extra storage space? That would be so cool!

Okay back to my originial question, why do home builders still make attics on houses if it's just an empty void? Why not make a flat roof with a chance to plant gardens then?

Answer 1

One the Attic helps to cool the house. It acts as a Barrier between the Roof, which keeps water out and the living area. Many people use the Attic, as stated above, for storage, by placing boards or plywood over the insulation. The steep roofs you see are extra living space for the money instead of wasted space. Normally they put down a nicer floor and then Insulate the Rafters and cover with a Ceiling material such as Sheet Rock. The rafters are also more structurally stronger than a flat roof.
Now, what you said is correct about a Garden on the roof. Many people do this in certain parts of the world (America included). If, the Climate allows for this then put a flat or slightly angled roof to allow water to run away to the back and not drip at the front door. It actually insulates the home with dirt and grass, whatever a person want. Some that use grass have a Goat and he figures a way up on the roof to keep the grass trimmed and neat looking. ;-)

Answer 2

Flat roofs have a miltitude of problems, least of which is standing water which will eventually seep through, causing mold and other damage. A flat roof is never the answer.

The attics aren't built any differently than they were in the past, they are just lacking plywood flooring. Old attics had insulation, just like the new ones. Put plywood flooring down and you have the storage space you desire.

Some builders, typically larger builders, have started making attics w/ lumber that is insufficient to support the weight of a plywood floor and storage. They do this to cut cost and increase profit. This is a waste of the attic, but until the consumer starts to stand up and demand quality, they will continue to build it cheaply.

My house, which was built by a smaller builder, has a fully functional, very tall attic and I couldn't live without it. Here in the Low Country we don't have basements.

Answer 3

A certain slope to the roof is needed to have optimal drainage of rain, snow, etc. from the roof. Look at many flat roofs, and see how the water puddles up in certain locations. If extra care isn't taken to waterproof the roof, then that moisture can get into the building and destroy it. I also suspect that having a pitched roof improves the circulation of heat to the outside of the house. For example, you have heat vents, fans, etc. that help to remove the heat from the house. I understand this this also helps to prolong the life of the shingles/roofing. As another poster said, put boards in your attic so you can use it for storage. You also tend to see roof gardens in cities where space is a premium. In a typical house in the burbs, space is not at as much of a premium...so why plan your garden on the roof top?

Answer 4

Because the design would not only be boring, but dangerous. Esp. where there's snow. But I personally love old attics! My bedroom was always in a great, walk-up attic in older houses (we moved alot). Many treasures to be found in old attics!

Answer 5

A roof has to have a pitch in an area where it snows - many homes in the south were built without pitched roofs

Answer 6

Flat roofs are extremely difficult to make water proof.

Answer 7

put boards over the insulation and use it

Answer 8

to lock the children in them!