- Ventilation really is underrated. I’ve seen folks blame every material under the sun, but if the air can’t move, you’re just asking for trouble.
- I’m with you on recycled underlayments—tried one last year and it held up fine through a wet spring. Not sure I’d go back to felt.
- Metal roofing’s tempting, but yeah, only if the installer actually knows their stuff. Otherwise, you’re just trading one headache for another.
- Curious—has anyone here tried those solar-powered attic fans? Wondering if they actually help with moisture or just add another thing to break...
I’ve wondered the same about those solar attic fans. My neighbor put one in last summer, but honestly, his attic temps didn’t seem much different than mine (just basic ridge and soffit vents). Maybe it helps more in humid climates? Anyone notice a drop in moisture or just electric bills?
Maybe it helps more in humid climates? Anyone notice a drop in moisture or just electric bills?
- Good question. I’ve checked out a few attics with solar fans and honestly, the difference isn’t always huge compared to well-installed ridge/soffit vents.
- In drier areas, I haven’t seen much impact on moisture. In really humid spots, sometimes there’s a slight drop, but not dramatic.
- Electric bill savings are usually pretty minor since attic fans don’t draw much power anyway.
- If your attic already has decent airflow, you might not see much change. Sometimes folks expect more than these fans can deliver... they’re not magic, just another tool.
- Totally agree, solar fans aren’t miracle workers. I’ve seen folks in muggy areas swear they help a bit with attic dampness, but it’s usually not night-and-day.
- If your vents are already doing their job, adding a fan is like putting a cherry on a sundae you didn’t really want in the first place.
- Had one client who thought their electric bill would drop like a rock—nope, maybe a couple bucks.
- Honestly, if you’re chasing moisture problems, I’d look at bath/kitchen venting and insulation gaps before dropping cash on a solar fan.
- Still wild to think Tamko started in a chicken coop... guess you gotta start somewhere!
Funny how many big companies started out in some shed or barn. On the solar fans—totally agree, they’re not a cure-all. I’ve seen people skip right over air sealing and proper venting, then wonder why the attic’s still damp. Always worth checking insulation gaps first.
