Insulation Vent Baffles

Michigan residential construction code requires a baffle be installed in every cavity; however, at Ecotelligent Homes we don’t treat the code as the gold standard, we treat it as the bare minimum allowed. Our basic attic insulation package goes beyond the minimum code requirements and includes installing baffles in every cavity with a blocker and air sealing of the exterior top plate, see sketch below (artwork courtesy of our crafty engineer, Owner Amanda Godward).

A Soffit vent, on the roof's bottom, is a ventilation opening. The soffit directs airflow from the roof to the outside, through the ground and over any barrier, such as turf or slab. Some soffits are equipped with insulation or screens to reduce wind-driven rainwater intrusion. Others have insulation for convenience, as insulation can also be installed in an attic.

Tech Tips and Critical details is a visual guide to proper installation of ventilation baffles. It's a great resource. It outlines seven steps to properly fit and install attic insulation baffles. Another great resource on installing attic insulation baffles is this excellent video from HouseImprovements.com. Clear guidance in how to deal with small details can help manage an extremely important function in the attic.

Baffles are made from hardcore waterproof foam. They are available in 4 foot lengths and 22-1/2 inch widths. These baffles can be placed between rafters and are usually white, blue or pink. Although they aren't required for every rafter in the attic, they can help ensure that proper insulation is being installed. Rafter baffles can also be called venting chutes and wind baffles. These are often used in roof ventilation systems. Baffles can be installed at the eaves to keep warm and cool air out and dry it in.

Rafter Baffles Are Great for Insulation. Rafter baffles will protect your rafters. There are many types to choose from. Some are meant to be under the floor, others are for installation over joists. SmartBaffle is an option that is both strong and easy to put in. Its non collapsing construction keeps material out of areas where it isn't necessary. It comes in different widths, to accommodate different rafter lengths.

The attic insulation baffles can be used to insulate your crawlspace and attic. They are made of high quality material that will not deteriorate under harsh conditions. This makes them last longer than other similar products. You'll be able save more on your energy bills while improving the air quality in your home.

Insulation baffles make it easy to increase air flow through your attic. They channel air upwards from the attic floor through exterior soffit ventilations. They can be used to control temperature and moisture. These baffles come with a variety colors and sizes.

Is your insulation blocking airflow, preventing proper ventilation or blocking airflow? Is there poor air circulation in your home? Are you unable to channel airflow properly, allowing air leaks to be reduced, or preventing mold growth? Is it necessary to channel cooler, fresher air onto the roof deck? Surprisingly, even the most insulated attic space may need additional air circulation.

Insulation baffles made of cardboard: These insulation baffles channel warm and cold air through roof vents. They prevent insulation from blocking the soffit. To create a strong structure, cardboard attic baffles can be made from corrugated stock. They can become fragile and less durable over time.

Exhaust vents are installed at the top of the roof. Their primary job is to provide an unobstructed exit for the heat, hot air, odors and moisture trapped in your attic. Baffles and rafter vents are the same things. Baffles (often called rafter vents) are installed in the attic, wherever there is an intake vent (soffit vent). Baffles prevent vents from getting clogged by insulation and ensure a clear channel for outside air to move into the attic through soffit vents.

After the insulation has dried, you can now place the batts, blankets, or blow insulation right to the edge. Note: In order to prevent insulation being blown into the attic floor, blow insulation may require additional blocks. This is done very well by placing a piece if rigid foam board on the outer edges of the top plates.

Baffles have the ability to block insulation from reaching areas that it shouldn't like, such exterior walls or floors. This can lead to expensive repairs. It is important that insulation does not enter areas it shouldn't.