How to maintain your attic spaces in perfect shape
More so than any other space in the home, attics often go neglected. It’s easy to forget about your attic (especially if don’t use it regularly), but properly maintaining the space is essential for both your own safety and the long-term health of your property. Take a look at this quick checklist for maintaining your attic space to see how you can eliminate costs and improve your home in the long run:
Reduce excess moisture – Attics can be a breeding ground for excess moisture which can lead to leaks, rising damp, mould and serious structural damage. To avoid potentially costly renovations in the future, it’s essential to check your attic for water, especially if it’s been snowing or raining heavily. Identifying any leaks early can reduce the scale of any potential renovation works, while installing eave trays and vents can improve airflow and prevent mould and excess moisture from accumulating in the space.
Check for cracks – Cracks in the underside of your roof can be a sign of serious structural issues, leading to mould, load-bearing wall deterioration and eventual decay. Check your attic thoroughly for cracks during the day, when the space is well-lit and light from outside will ‘shine through’ any cracks present. Take the time to fill minor cracks with wire wool or expanding foam, but don’t be afraid to call for professional help if you suspect the cracking is indicative of more serious problems.
Ensure adequate ventilation – While the use of preventative measures such as eave vents can go a long way in preventing the buildup of moisture and damp, it’s also essential that you physically ventilate your attic space by regularly opening its trapdoor or indoor entrance, especially in hot weather. ‘Airing out’ your attic is a simple and reliable way of preventing mould buildup and reducing the risk of costly structural damage further down the line.
Pest control – Unfortunately for the squeamish, attics and lofts are ideal environments for a range of potentially pesky pests such as wasps, mice, rats, birds, squirrels and bats. In order to best maintain your attic and eliminate potentially costly professional pest control fees, make sure that you regularly check the space for evidence of pests such as rodents and insects. By ensuring that you sweep your attic for indicators such as nests, droppings, holes, debris and gnawed wiring, (and by paying close attention to unfamiliar scratching noises emanating from the attic), you could identify a minor pest issue before it spirals out of control. While it’s certainly more cost-effective in the short-term to deal with minor pest control issues yourself, always call in the professionals if faced with infestation.
