Attic Insulation Glossary of Attic and Insulation Terms
GENERAL ATTIC TERMS (with Definitions)
Attic
The space directly below the roof of a house, typically used for storage, utilities, or insulation.
Loft
A type of attic space, usually larger or partially open to the floor below. In some regions, “loft” and “attic” are interchangeable.
Crawl Space (Attic Crawl)
A low-clearance area within an attic where a person cannot stand upright; often requires crawling to access parts of the attic.
Knee Wall
A short vertical wall (usually 3–4 feet high) that supports roof rafters in a sloped attic and creates small triangular attic spaces behind it.
Eaves
The edges of the roof that overhang the exterior walls; often include intake ventilation.
Rafters
Angled structural beams that form the roof frame and support the roof decking.
Joists
Horizontal structural beams that support the attic floor and the ceiling below.
Collar Ties
Horizontal members installed high in the attic between rafters to prevent roof spreading.
Trusses
Prefabricated triangular roof framing systems that provide structural support for the roof and attic.
Attic Hatch
A small access door located in a ceiling, wall, or hallway that allows entry into the attic.
Pull-Down Stairs
A foldable, spring-loaded ladder system that provides easier access to the attic.
Scuttle Hole
A simple small opening—often without a built-in ladder—used to access an attic.
Attic Deck
A platform or walkway built inside an attic to make movement and storage easier.
Roof Decking
The plywood or OSB sheets attached to the rafters or trusses where roofing materials are installed.
Attic Floor
The structural surface made of joists and subfloor material that forms the base of the attic.
Attic Space
General term for the open area under the roof structure.
Unfinished Attic
An attic without drywall, flooring, or controlled temperature; commonly used for insulation and ventilation.
Finished Attic
An attic that has been converted into living space with drywall, flooring, HVAC, and insulation.
Conditioned Attic
An attic that is heated/cooled and sealed from outside air, typically achieved using spray foam on roof rafters.
Unconditioned Attic
An attic not connected to the HVAC system; typically insulated at the attic floor.
Attic Conversion
The process of turning an attic into a finished, livable room.
Attic Ventilation System
A system of intake and exhaust vents that keeps air moving through the attic to prevent moisture and control temperature.
Roof Cavity
The space between the ceiling below and the roof structure above.
ATTIC INSULATION TYPES (with Definitions)
🔹 Fiberglass Insulation
Fiberglass Batts
Pre-cut sheets of fiberglass insulation designed to fit between attic joists or rafters. Often faced or unfaced.
Fiberglass Rolls
Long, continuous rolls of fiberglass insulation that can be cut to length for large attic spans.
Fiberglass Blown-In (Loose Fill)
Small particles of fiberglass blown into attics using a machine to create an even insulation layer.
High-Density Fiberglass
A denser version of traditional fiberglass batts that provides higher R-values in the same thickness.
🔹 Cellulose Insulation
Loose-Fill Cellulose
Insulation made from recycled, treated paper products that is blown into attics for uniform coverage.
Dense-Pack Cellulose
A method of installing cellulose at higher density, typically used in walls but sometimes in attics to reduce settling.
Borate-Treated Cellulose
Cellulose treated with borates for fire resistance, mold protection, and pest deterrence.
🔹 Spray Foam Insulation
Closed-Cell Spray Foam
A dense foam that expands and hardens, creating an air barrier and moisture barrier with very high R-value per inch.
Open-Cell Spray Foam
A lighter, softer foam that expands significantly and seals air leaks; offers sound absorption but is not a vapor barrier.
Icynene Foam
A brand-specific open-cell spray foam known for high expansion and excellent air sealing characteristics.
Expanding Foam
General term for canned or commercial foam that expands to fill gaps, cracks, and cavities.
🔹 Other Attic Insulation Materials
Mineral Wool (Rock Wool)
Insulation made from basalt rock and slag; naturally fire-resistant and soundproof.
Sheep’s Wool Insulation
Natural wool insulation offering moisture absorption and good thermal performance.
Rigid Foam Board
Flat insulation sheets used to insulate rooflines or attic access doors; common types include polyiso, XPS, and EPS.
Polyiso (Polyisocyanurate)
A high-performance rigid foam insulation with very high R-value per inch.
XPS (Extruded Polystyrene)
Rigid foam with closed-cell structure, good moisture resistance, and consistent R-value.
EPS (Expanded Polystyrene)
Lightweight rigid foam with moderate R-value, commonly used in cost-effective insulation applications.
Reflective Insulation
Insulation with a reflective foil surface designed to reduce radiant heat transfer.
Radiant Barrier
A foil-like material installed in attics to reflect heat away from living spaces, especially in hot climates.
Denim Insulation
Insulation made from recycled denim fabric; environmentally friendly and non-irritating.
Aerogel Insulation
Ultra-high-performance insulation with extremely high R-value, usually used for specialized applications.
Vermiculite Insulation
Loose-fill mineral insulation found in older homes; sometimes contains asbestos and requires special handling.
Perlite Insulation
Lightweight volcanic-glass-based insulation used in older structures and specialty applications.
Cork Insulation
A natural, sustainable insulation material with good thermal and sound performance.
ATTIC INSULATION PERFORMANCE & BUILDING SCIENCE TERMS (with Definitions)
R-Value
A measurement of how well insulation resists heat flow. Higher R-values = better insulation performance.
U-Value
The opposite of R-value; measures how much heat passes through a material. Lower U-values = better insulation.
Thermal Resistance
The ability of a material to resist heat transfer; essentially another way of describing R-value.
Thermal Conductivity
How easily heat moves through a material. Low conductivity = good insulating properties.
Thermal Bridging
When heat bypasses insulation by traveling through a more conductive material (such as wood or metal).
Air Sealing
The process of closing gaps, cracks, and penetrations to prevent air leakage between the attic and living space.
Air Barrier
A continuous system (caulk, foam, sheathing, etc.) that prevents air from moving in or out of the attic.
Vapor Barrier
A material designed to slow or stop moisture vapor from passing through walls or ceilings into the attic.
Moisture Barrier
General term for systems that prevent water and water vapor from entering insulation.
Weatherization
Upgrades that improve a home’s energy efficiency, typically including insulation, air sealing, and ventilation improvements.
Heat Transfer
Movement of heat by conduction, convection, or radiation. Insulation aims to reduce all three types.
Conduction
Heat moving through a solid material (like wood or drywall). Insulation battles conduction.
Convection
Heat moving through air currents. Air leaks in attics significantly increase convective heat loss.
Radiation (Radiant Heat Transfer)
Heat traveling in waves. Radiant barriers reflect this type of heat, especially in hot climates.
Energy Efficiency
How effectively a home manages energy use, reducing waste from poor insulation or air leaks.
Home Performance
Overall measurement of how well a home maintains comfort, energy efficiency, and air quality.
Building Envelope
The physical separation between conditioned indoor space and unconditioned outdoor space.
Thermal Envelope
The part of the building envelope specifically related to insulation and energy flow.
Insulation Depth
The thickness of insulation in an attic, which directly affects its R-value.
Blower Door Test
A diagnostic test using a large calibrated fan to measure a building’s air leakage.
Air Leakage
Uncontrolled air movement through gaps, cracks, or poorly sealed building components.
Stack Effect
A natural pressure phenomenon where warm air rises and escapes through the attic, pulling cold air in at the lower levels.
Thermal Bypass
Areas where heat escapes due to incomplete or missing insulation or poor air sealing.
Hot Roof
A roof system where insulation is applied directly to the roof deck, eliminating ventilation and creating a conditioned attic.
Cold Roof
Traditional roof system with insulation on the attic floor and ventilation above.
ACH50 (Air Changes per Hour at 50 Pascals)
A metric used during blower door testing to quantify how much air leaks from a home.
CFM Leakage (Cubic Feet per Minute)
Measurement of airflow escaping or entering through leaks when pressure-tested.
ATTIC INSTALLATION METHODS & TOOLS (with Definitions)
Blown-In Machine (Insulation Blower)
A powered machine used to blow loose-fill insulation (fiberglass or cellulose) into the attic for even coverage.
Batt Installation
The process of fitting precut batts (sheets) of insulation between attic joists or rafters.
Dense-Pack Method
A technique for installing cellulose insulation under high pressure to minimize settling and air movement.
Foam Application Rig
Professional spray-foam equipment used to apply open-cell or closed-cell foam insulation.
ORMD Foam Canisters
Pressurized canisters of spray foam (often used by pros) for air sealing or small foam insulation jobs.
Insulation Vacuum
A large, powerful vacuum system used to remove old or contaminated insulation from an attic.
Insulation Removal Machine
Another term for vacuums designed for the safe extraction of blown-in or contaminated insulation.
Soffit Baffles Installation
Installing rafter vents/baffles to keep insulation from blocking soffit vents and to maintain airflow.
Vapor Barrier Stapling
Using staples to secure vapor barrier materials to framing members before or after insulation installation.
Insulation Rulers (Depth Markers)
Cardboard or plastic rulers placed in attics to show insulation depth and ensure proper coverage.
Air Sealing Caulk
Flexible sealant used to fill cracks or gaps where air may leak into or out of the attic.
Weatherstripping
Material applied to attic hatches or doors to create a tight seal against air leaks.
Spray Foam Cans
Handheld disposable cans of expanding foam used for sealing gaps around pipes, wires, and fixtures.
Heat Gun
A tool that emits hot air; sometimes used in insulation work to shape materials or activate adhesives.
Utility Knife
A cutting tool used for trimming batt insulation or shaping rigid foam boards.
Staple Gun
A handheld tool for attaching insulation facings, baffles, or vapor barriers to wood framing.
Measuring Tape
Essential for measuring cavity widths, insulation lengths, or spacing between framing members.
Protective Clothing
Includes gloves, respirators, goggles, and Tyvek suits—necessary for safe insulation handling.
ATTIC VENTILATION TERMS (with Definitions)
Soffit Vents
Vents located under the roof’s eaves that allow fresh, cool outside air to enter the attic.
Ridge Vents
Vents installed along the roof peak that allow warm, moist attic air to escape; typically part of a passive ventilation system.
Gable Vents
Vents placed on the exterior wall of an attic’s gable end that allow cross-flow ventilation.
Roof Vents (Box Vents)
Small, static vents installed near the roof ridge to release hot or moist air from the attic.
Turbine Vents
Wind-powered spinning vents that pull hot air out of the attic as air flows through the turbine.
Power Attic Ventilators
Electric or solar-powered fans that actively remove hot air from the attic.
Attic Fans
General term for powered fans used to increase attic ventilation; may be roof-mounted or gable-mounted.
Passive Ventilation
Ventilation that relies on natural air movement—intake at soffits and exhaust at ridge or roof vents.
Mechanical Ventilation
Ventilation that uses powered fans to move air through the attic.
Vent Chutes (Baffles)
Plastic or foam channels installed between rafters to maintain airflow from soffit vents into the attic.
Rafter Vents
Another term for vent chutes; ensures insulation doesn’t block soffit airflow.
Air Channels
The continuous open pathways created by baffles that allow air to move up the roofline.
Cross Ventilation
Airflow that moves horizontally across the attic, typically between gable vents.
Moisture Control Ventilation
Any ventilation configuration designed to remove moisture-laden air and prevent mold or condensation.
Intake Vents
Vents that allow air to enter the attic (typically soffit vents).
Exhaust Vents
Vents that allow air to leave the attic (ridge vents, roof vents, or power fans).
Balanced Ventilation System
A system where intake and exhaust airflow is properly matched for optimal air movement.
Solar Attic Vent
A powered vent fan that uses solar energy to exhaust hot attic air.
1:150 Ventilation Ratio
A code guideline requiring 1 square foot of ventilation for every 150 square feet of attic space (unless using a vapor barrier).
1:300 Ventilation Ratio
A reduced ventilation requirement (1 sq ft per 300 sq ft of attic space) when a proper vapor barrier is installed.
MOISTURE, AIR & HEAT ISSUES for DFW ATTICS (with Definitions)
Condensation
Moisture that forms when warm, humid air meets cold attic surfaces—often leading to mold or wood rot.
Ice Dams
Ridges of ice that form along the edge of a roof when uneven attic temperatures melt and refreeze snow, often causing leaks.
Mold Growth
Fungal growth in the attic caused by excess moisture, poor ventilation, or wet insulation.
Mildew
A less aggressive form of fungus that grows on damp surfaces; often a precursor to mold.
Poor Airflow
Insufficient movement of air through attic ventilation pathways, leading to heat and moisture buildup.
Hot Attic Syndrome
Condition where a poorly ventilated attic becomes extremely hot, increasing AC load and reducing roof lifespan.
Moisture Migration
The movement of water vapor from warm areas of the home into the cold attic, often through air leaks or permeable materials.
Roof Leaks
Water penetration through the roofing system that wets insulation, promotes mold, and causes structural damage.
Humidity Buildup
Excess moisture trapped in the attic air, often due to inadequate ventilation.
Attic Frost
Ice crystals that form on attic surfaces during winter when moisture condenses and freezes.
Heat Loss
Unwanted escape of indoor heat into the attic, usually due to insufficient insulation or air leaks.
Drafts
Cold air entering living areas through gaps connected to the attic, indicating leakage pathways.
Over-Insulation Problems
Situations where too much insulation blocks ventilation, creating moisture issues.
Under-Insulation Problems
Insufficient insulation depth leading to heat loss, high energy bills, and comfort problems.
Attic Air Infiltration
Uncontrolled movement of air between the attic and living spaces due to leaks around fixtures, walls, or penetrations.
Thermal Imbalance
Uneven temperature distribution within the home caused by poor insulation or ventilation.
Hot Spots
Areas in the attic where insulation is missing or compressed, causing localized heat entry into living spaces.
Cold Spots
Areas with lack of insulation or air leaks that allow cold air intrusion during winter.
Ventilation Blockages
When insulation, debris, or pests obstruct airflow through soffits or baffles.
Wet Insulation
Insulation that has absorbed moisture and lost its thermal effectiveness; often needs removal.
COMMON ATTIC COMPONENTS (with Definitions)
Soffits
The underside of the roof overhang; often contains intake vents for attic ventilation.
Fascia
The vertical board that runs along the roof edge, supporting gutters and helping seal the roof structure.
Roof Sheathing (Roof Decking)
The plywood or OSB panels attached to rafters or trusses that provide structural support for roofing materials.
Chimney Chase
A framed shaft that houses a chimney or flue pipe; often a major air leakage point if not sealed properly.
Attic Plumbing Penetrations
Openings where plumbing vent pipes pass from the home into the attic; typically require air sealing.
Electrical Penetrations
Holes cut for wiring that run from conditioned living space into the attic; common leakage spots.
Recessed Lighting Fixtures (IC-Rated or Non-IC)
Light fixtures set into ceilings; IC-rated fixtures can safely be in contact with insulation, while non-IC fixtures require clearance.
HVAC Ductwork
Heating and cooling ducts that may run through the attic; leaky ducts waste energy and introduce moisture.
Attic Furnace
A furnace located in the attic; requires careful sealing and insulation around it.
Attic Air Handler
The part of the HVAC system that circulates conditioned air; often located in the attic in warmer climates.
Vent Stacks
Pipes that vent sewer gases from plumbing systems up through the roof.
Junction Boxes
Electrical boxes used for wiring connections; openings around them often require air sealing.
Attic Wiring
Electrical cables running across the attic floor or through framing members.
Attic Platforms
Walkable areas built to access equipment like air handlers, furnaces, or storage spaces without disturbing insulation.
Flue Pipes
Pipes that safely vent exhaust gases from water heaters or furnaces through the roof; require heat-resistant clearance.
Attic Access Door / Hatch Cover
The entry point into the attic, often a major source of air leakage if not insulated or weatherstripped.
Soffit Baffles
Plastic or foam inserts that maintain airflow from soffit vents into the attic.
Knee Wall Attic
Small triangular attic spaces formed by short interior walls beneath sloped ceilings.
Attic Vapor Barrier
A thin sheet of plastic or foil used to block moisture from entering attic insulation.
Roof Underlayment
The membrane installed on top of the roof decking beneath shingles; provides moisture protection.
AIR SEALING TARGETS for DALLAS & Ft. WORTH ATTCS (with Definitions)
Top Plates
The horizontal framing members at the top of walls below the attic; often full of cracks and gaps where air leaks upward into the attic.
Wire Penetrations
Holes drilled for electrical wiring that allow air from the living space to escape into the attic if not sealed.
Plumbing Penetrations
Openings around pipes—especially vent stacks—that can leak warm, moist air unless sealed with foam or collars.
Recessed Lights
Light fixtures installed into ceilings; older non-IC fixtures leak large amounts of air into the attic unless boxed and sealed.
Attic Hatch Door
One of the largest single leakage points; gaps around the hatch allow heat and air to escape unless weatherstripped and insulated.
Chimney Chase Gaps
Large openings around chimneys where framing doesn’t tightly meet masonry—major sources of heat loss and drafting.
Rim Joists
The outer edges of floor framing where the walls meet the attic floor; often overlooked but leak significantly if unsealed.
Wall-Top Junctions
The seam where the ceiling drywall meets the top of interior walls; often has cracks that leak conditioned air upward.
HVAC Chases
Large framed cavities that house ductwork or vents—commonly left unsealed, allowing massive air exchange with the attic.
Vent Pipes
Openings around vent pipes that allow air movement; sealed with foam or fire-rated caulk depending on location.
Dropped Soffits
Lowered portions of ceilings (common in kitchens and bathrooms) that often extend into the attic as open cavities.
Open Wall Cavities
Unblocked stud bays that run from floors below up into the attic, creating a direct passage for air movement.
Electrical Boxes
Ceiling-mounted boxes for fans, lights, or detectors that may leak around the edges.
Duct Boot Connections
Where HVAC ducts connect to ceiling registers; leaks occur around the seams unless sealed.
Attic Bath Fan Exhaust Penetrations
Openings where bathroom ventilation fans exit into the attic—must be sealed and ducted outdoors to prevent moisture buildup.
CODES, STANDARDS & CERTIFICATIONS for Attic Insulation(with Definitions)
Building Code (IRC, IBC)
Sets minimum construction and safety requirements. IRC (International Residential Code) applies to homes; IBC (International Building Code) applies to commercial buildings.
Energy Code (IECC)
The International Energy Conservation Code, which establishes minimum insulation levels and energy-efficiency standards for buildings.
RESNET Standards
Technical standards created by the Residential Energy Services Network for energy audits, home ratings, and diagnostic testing.
BPI Standards (Building Performance Institute)
Industry-recognized standards for home performance work, including air sealing, insulation, and combustion safety.
Energy Star Guidelines
Government-backed energy-efficiency specifications that define minimum performance requirements for homes and products.
ASHRAE Standards
Engineering standards from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, including ventilation and indoor air quality requirements.
Minimum R-Value Regulations
Code-required insulation levels for different climate zones; ensures homes meet baseline energy-efficiency performance.
Fire Blocking Requirements
Code mandates to prevent fire from spreading through concealed cavities—critical when sealing chases or penetrations.
IC-Rated Fixture Requirements
Rules specifying where insulation may be installed in contact with recessed light fixtures labeled “IC” (Insulation Contact).
Non-IC Fixture Clearance
Code requirement that non-IC recessed lights must maintain several inches of clearance from insulation for fire safety.
Vapor Barrier Code Requirements
Regulations defining whether vapor barriers must be installed on the warm-in-winter side of insulation (varies by climate zone).
Air Sealing Requirements
Energy codes now mandate certain levels of airtightness, verified by blower door testing.
Ventilation Ratio Requirements
Codes that specify minimum attic ventilation area, such as 1:150 or 1:300 ratios.
Home Energy Rating System (HERS Score)
A numerical index used to measure a home’s energy efficiency; lower scores indicate better performance.
Manual J (Load Calculation)
An ACCA standard that defines how to calculate home heating and cooling loads; essential when insulation upgrades affect HVAC sizing.
Manual S (Equipment Selection)
Ensures HVAC equipment is properly matched to the load calculated in Manual J.
Manual D (Duct Design)
Standards for correctly sizing and laying out ductwork; critical when ducts run through the attic.
CODES, STANDARDS & CERTIFICATIONS for Attic Insulation (with Definitions)
Building Code (IRC, IBC)
Sets minimum construction and safety requirements. IRC (International Residential Code) applies to homes; IBC (International Building Code) applies to commercial buildings.
Energy Code (IECC)
The International Energy Conservation Code, which establishes minimum insulation levels and energy-efficiency standards for buildings.
RESNET Standards
Technical standards created by the Residential Energy Services Network for energy audits, home ratings, and diagnostic testing.
BPI Standards (Building Performance Institute)
Industry-recognized standards for home performance work, including air sealing, insulation, and combustion safety.
Energy Star Guidelines
Government-backed energy-efficiency specifications that define minimum performance requirements for homes and products.
ASHRAE Standards
Engineering standards from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, including ventilation and indoor air quality requirements.
Minimum R-Value Regulations
Code-required insulation levels for different climate zones; ensures homes meet baseline energy-efficiency performance.
Fire Blocking Requirements
Code mandates to prevent fire from spreading through concealed cavities—critical when sealing chases or penetrations.
IC-Rated Fixture Requirements
Rules specifying where insulation may be installed in contact with recessed light fixtures labeled “IC” (Insulation Contact).
Non-IC Fixture Clearance
Code requirement that non-IC recessed lights must maintain several inches of clearance from insulation for fire safety.
Vapor Barrier Code Requirements
Regulations defining whether vapor barriers must be installed on the warm-in-winter side of insulation (varies by climate zone).
Air Sealing Requirements
Energy codes now mandate certain levels of airtightness, verified by blower door testing.
Ventilation Ratio Requirements
Codes that specify minimum attic ventilation area, such as 1:150 or 1:300 ratios.
Home Energy Rating System (HERS Score)
A numerical index used to measure a home’s energy efficiency; lower scores indicate better performance.
Manual J (Load Calculation)
An ACCA standard that defines how to calculate home heating and cooling loads; essential when insulation upgrades affect HVAC sizing.
Manual S (Equipment Selection)
Ensures HVAC equipment is properly matched to the load calculated in Manual J.
Manual D (Duct Design)
Standards for correctly sizing and laying out ductwork; critical when ducts run through the attic.
ATTIC INSULATION HEALTH & SAFETY TERMS (with Definitions)
Asbestos
A hazardous fibrous mineral once used in insulation (especially in vermiculite). Disturbing it releases dangerous airborne fibers.
Vermiculite Remediation
The process of safely removing or encapsulating vermiculite insulation, which may contain asbestos.
Protective Respirator
A mask equipped with filters to protect workers from inhaling dust, insulation fibers, mold spores, or hazardous materials.
N95 Mask
A disposable respirator that filters out 95% of airborne particles; often used during insulation handling.
Tyvek Suit
A protective disposable suit worn to prevent skin irritation and contamination from insulation fibers or attic debris.
Attic Dust
Accumulated debris, fibers, dirt, and contaminants that settle in attics, often containing rodent waste or allergens.
Insulation Exposure
Skin, eye, or respiratory irritation that occurs when handling fiberglass or other insulation materials without protection.
Off-Gassing
Release of chemicals into the air from insulation materials (e.g., certain foams); must be properly managed during installation.
Fire Hazards
Risks related to heat-producing fixtures, electrical wiring, flues, or improper insulation placement that could cause fire.
Electrical Safety
Precautions taken to prevent shock or fire when working around wiring, junction boxes, or fixtures.
Heat Stress
Physical strain caused by working in extremely hot attics, especially during summer months.
Rodent Droppings
Excrement from mice or rats found in many attics, posing health risks such as hantavirus exposure.
Attic Pests
Animals like rodents, squirrels, raccoons, bats, or birds that can damage insulation and contaminate surfaces.
Hantavirus Concerns
A serious illness transmitted through inhalation of dust contaminated by rodent droppings or urine.
Mold Spores
Microscopic reproductive particles released by mold; harmful when inhaled and common in moist attics.
Lead Paint Debris
Older homes may have lead-based paint chips or dust in attic areas, requiring careful handling.
Respirable Particulates
Small airborne particles that can lodge in the lungs; common during insulation removal.
Confined Space Hazards
Risks associated with working in tight, poorly ventilated attic spaces where temperatures and oxygen levels may be unsafe.
COMMON ATTIC PROBLEMS (with Definitions)
Insufficient Insulation
When the attic does not meet recommended or code-required R-value, leading to heat loss and high energy bills.
Damaged Insulation
Insulation that has been torn, crushed, burned, or contaminated, reducing its effectiveness.
Compacted Insulation
Insulation compressed by storage, foot traffic, or settling; reduces air pockets and therefore lowers R-value.
Wet Insulation
Insulation that has absorbed water from leaks or condensation; loses thermal performance and may encourage mold growth.
Rodent Infestation
Presence of mice, rats, or squirrels that chew wiring, disturb insulation, and create health hazards.
Bird Nests
Nesting materials inside attic spaces or vents, typically resulting from compromised soffit or gable vents.
Squirrel Damage
Damage to wood, wiring, and insulation caused by squirrels entering an attic.
Air Leakage Pathways
Gaps and cracks that allow conditioned air to escape into the attic, undermining insulation effectiveness.
Cracked Rafters
Structural damage in roof framing that may compromise roof integrity and require repair before insulation work.
Structural Issues
Any deficiencies in framing, roof decking, or load-bearing members that affect attic stability or safety.
Ventilation Blockages
Obstructions in soffits, baffles, or vents that limit airflow and cause moisture or heat buildup.
Mold Outbreaks
Visible mold colonies on wood, insulation, or drywall caused by prolonged moisture exposure.
Ice Dam Formation
Build-up of ice along roof edges due to uneven heat loss; often caused by poor insulation and ventilation.
Roof Degradation
Deterioration of shingles, decking, or roof membranes resulting from excessive attic heat or moisture.
High Energy Bills Due to Attic
Increased utility costs caused by heat gain in summer or heat loss in winter due to poor insulation or air sealing.
Thermal Bridging Issues
Heat escaping through conductive framing materials where insulation coverage is incomplete.
Attic Bypass Gaps
Openings that allow air movement from the living space to the attic, reducing insulation effectiveness.
Failing Vapor Barrier
When a vapor barrier becomes torn, misplaced, or overly permeable, leading to moisture problems.
Attic Overheating
Extreme attic temperatures (>130°F) due to poor ventilation, damaging shingles and increasing cooling costs.
Dust and Debris Accumulation
Thick layers of dust, old insulation fragments, and debris that impair air quality and complicate attic work.
Disconnected Ductwork
HVAC ducts that have come loose or separated, causing air leaks into the attic instead of living spaces.
SECTION 12 — ATTIC INSULATION SERVICES / INDUSTRY TERMS (with Definitions)
Attic Insulation Removal
The process of extracting old, damaged, contaminated, or inadequate insulation using industrial vacuums and safety equipment.
Attic Insulation Installation
Adding new insulation materials (batts, blown-in, spray foam, etc.) to achieve required R-values and improve energy efficiency.
Air Sealing Service
A specialized service where contractors seal gaps, cracks, and penetrations in the attic to prevent air leakage.
Energy Audit
A professional assessment that identifies where a home is losing energy and recommends insulation and air-sealing improvements.
Home Performance Test
Comprehensive testing of a home’s insulation, air leakage, HVAC efficiency, and overall energy performance.
Retrofit Insulation
Installing insulation in an existing home (as opposed to new construction). Often involves blown-in or dense-pack methods.
Weatherization Upgrade
A whole-home improvement package that may include insulation, air sealing, duct sealing, and ventilation upgrades.
Attic Cleaning
Removing debris, dust, droppings, or old materials to prepare the attic for new insulation or to improve air quality.
Attic Sanitation
Using disinfectants and deodorizers to sanitize attic surfaces after rodent infestations or mold issues.
Rodent Remediation
Identifying and repairing rodent entry points, removing droppings, cleaning contaminated insulation, and sealing access gaps.
Thermal Imaging Inspection
Using infrared cameras to detect heat loss, missing insulation, or air leaks in attic spaces.
Infrared Camera Analysis
A detailed interpretation of thermal images to identify cold spots, hot spots, or moisture problems.
Energy Efficiency Upgrade
Any improvement (insulation, sealing, ventilation adjustments) intended to reduce a home’s energy consumption.
Insulation Top-Off
Adding additional insulation on top of existing material to raise R-value without complete removal.
Insulation Abatement
Removal of hazardous or contaminated insulation (e.g., asbestos-containing vermiculite), requiring specialized protocols.
Attic Encapsulation
Transforming an unvented attic into a sealed, conditioned space using spray foam on the roof deck rather than the attic floor.
Airflow Optimization
Adjusting ventilation components to balance intake and exhaust for best attic performance.
HERS Rating Evaluation
A home energy rating used to quantify efficiency improvements after insulation work.
Thermal Envelope Upgrade
A project where the attic, walls, floors, and windows are improved to reduce unwanted heat flow.
CONTRACTOR & TECHNICAL JARGON (with Definitions)
Heat Map Inspection
A diagnostic process that uses thermal imaging to show temperature variations across attic surfaces and living-space ceilings.
Thermal Camera Scan
A sweep of the attic or home interior with an infrared camera to detect insulation gaps, air leaks, and moisture.
Load Calculation
An HVAC engineering calculation that determines how much heating or cooling a house needs; insulation levels directly influence this.
HVAC Balancing
Adjusting airflow through ducts to ensure each room receives the correct amount of conditioned air after insulation or sealing improvements.
Hot Spots
Areas identified through thermal imaging where insulation is missing, thin, or compressed, causing heat gain.
Cold Spots
Areas where air leaks or insufficient insulation allow unwanted cold air infiltration into living spaces.
Blower Door Score (ACH50)
The measured air leakage of a home during a blower door test; lower numbers indicate better air sealing.
CFM Leakage (Cubic Feet per Minute)
Measurement of the amount of air leaking through gaps at a given pressure; helps assess air sealing effectiveness.
Insulation Settling
Gradual compaction or lowering of loose-fill insulation depth over time, reducing R-value.
Ventilation Ratio (1:150 / 1:300)
Numeric standards specifying how much attic ventilation area is required based on attic square footage.
Unvented Attic Assembly
A roof insulation strategy where spray foam is applied directly to the roof deck, eliminating the need for attic ventilation.
Conditioned Space Conversion
Turning an unconditioned attic into a temperature-controlled area by insulating the roofline with foam.
Attic Encapsulation
A comprehensive sealing approach where the entire attic is turned into conditioned space, often reducing heat load significantly.
Thermal Boundary Alignment
Ensuring that the insulation layer and air barrier are continuous and aligned (e.g., insulating the attic floor but not leaving gaps at kneewalls).
Pressure Differentials
Differences in pressure between attic and living spaces that drive air leakage; measured during energy audits.
Duct Leakage Testing
A test that measures how much air escapes from HVAC ducts, especially those running through attics.
Combustion Safety Testing
A test to ensure gas appliances (furnace, water heater) operate safely after air sealing or insulation work.
Energy Modeling
Predictive software analysis estimating the impact of insulation upgrades on heating/cooling loads and energy costs.
Thermal Bypass Detection
Locating hidden pathways where heat and air escape through the attic or building envelope.
Envelope Leakage
Another term for overall air leakage in a home, often identified during blower door testing.