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Air Quality & Ductwork

What is Attic Ventilation?

Attic ventilation is the controlled flow of outdoor air through a vented attic, usually entering at low soffit intake vents and exiting through high ridge or roof exhaust vents. Balanced intake and exhaust remove built-up heat and moisture, protecting roof decking and insulation and reducing the heat load radiating into the rooms below.

Why it matters to you

A Charleston attic on a summer afternoon can run dramatically hotter than outdoors, heating upstairs ceilings and any ductwork or air handler installed up there. Blocked soffits or unbalanced vents also trap humid air that can lead to condensation and mold on the roof deck.

Practical guidance

Check that insulation is not blocking soffit vents and that intake and exhaust are roughly balanced. Ask before adding a powered attic fan, because it can pull conditioned air from the house through ceiling leaks; sealing the attic floor and insulating ducts often matter just as much.

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