Ventilation 101: How to Keep Your Attic from Turning Into a Sauna

Most homeowners don’t think about their attic unless something goes wrong. But during the hot, humid summer months in Connecticut, poor attic ventilation can cause a lot of problems. Some you’ll feel in your cooling bills, and others you might not notice until it’s too late.

Here’s why proper attic ventilation matters and how to know if your home needs an upgrade.

Why Your Attic Needs to Breathe

Your attic should be the same temperature as the air outside. That might sound surprising, but it’s true. In the summer, without proper airflow, your attic can easily reach 130°F or higher. That heat doesn’t just stay in the attic - it radiates down into your living space, forcing your air conditioner to work harder and driving up energy costs.

Hot, stagnant air can also cause your roofing materials to age prematurely. Shingles can blister, underlayment can warp, and moisture can build up, leading to mold, mildew, and even wood rot.

Good ventilation helps control both heat and moisture, keeping your attic and roof in better shape, and your home more energy-efficient.

The Basics of a Ventilation System

A well-ventilated attic has two things: intake and exhaust. These work together to create a continuous flow of air.

• Intake vents (usually located in the soffits under your roof overhang) pull fresh air into the attic.

• Exhaust vents (at the roof ridge, gables, or high up on the roof slope) allow hot, humid air to escape.

This system relies on the natural movement of air—cool air in, hot air out.

Common Ventilation Types

• Ridge vents: Run along the peak of your roof and are often paired with soffit vents. They’re effective and barely noticeable from the street.
  Soffit vents: Located under your eaves, they bring in cool outside air.

• Gable vents: Installed on the walls of the attic, often used in older homes.

• Powered attic fans: Use electricity to actively pull hot air out. These can be helpful but aren’t always necessary if passive ventilation is working properly.

Signs of Poor Attic Ventilation

• Your upstairs rooms are always hotter than the rest of the house.

• You notice high energy bills in the summer.

• Your roof shingles are curling or deteriorating faster than expected.

• There’s mold or a musty smell in the attic.

• You see frost or condensation in the attic during winter (yes, ventilation matters year-round).

Here in Connecticut, we deal with humid summers and cold winters, which means both heat and moisture are issues. That makes proper attic ventilation even more important. It’s not just about comfort, it’s about protecting your roof, improving air quality, and saving on long-term energy costs.

If you’re unsure whether your attic is properly ventilated, a quick inspection by a professional can help. It’s one of those home systems that’s easy to overlook, until it’s not.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Got a home issue you’d like Bob to tackle? Email info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Steamy Temps Bring Summer Window Woes

This past week’s brutal heat and sky-high humidity had many of us hiding indoors, glued to the AC. But while we were doing our best to stay cool, our windows may have been trying to tell us something. If you’ve noticed water droplets forming on the inside of your windows—or a foggy film that just won’t quit—you’re dealing with summer window condensation. And no, it’s not just a minor annoyance. It can be a sign of bigger problems brewing in your home.

So, what’s going on here?

Condensation forms when warm, humid air hits a cooler surface. In the winter, that’s usually on the inside of your windows. But in the summer, it’s the reverse. Your air conditioner is keeping your indoor air refreshingly cool, while the air outside is heavy and hot. When those two climates meet, like when humid air seeps in and touches your chilly window glass, moisture condenses, and you get that telltale fog or water buildup.

In reality, a little condensation now and then isn’t the end of the world. But if you’re noticing it regularly, especially during extreme heat and humidity, it can point to problems with ventilation, insulation, or moisture control in your home.

In our Connecticut climate, summer humidity is no joke. Add in long showers, laundry, cooking, and even houseplants, and you’ve got a recipe for excess indoor moisture. If your home doesn’t have proper airflow or if your windows aren’t up to the job, that moisture sticks around, and your windows become the battleground where it all shows up.

And here’s the thing: if you ignore it, condensation can go from cosmetic to costly. Excess moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can trigger allergies, irritate lungs, and leave a lingering musty smell. Over time, moisture can also cause wood window frames to warp or rot, damage seals, and reduce your windows’ effectiveness. Even if it’s just clouding your view, you’re still losing out on natural light and visibility.

So, what can you do?

Start with airflow. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and don’t be afraid to crack a window when the outdoor air is drier. A dehumidifier can also make a significant difference, especially in areas prone to moisture, such as basements.

Next, take a hard look at your windows. If they’re single-pane or older double-pane units, they might not be insulating properly. Modern double- or triple-pane windows are designed to prevent this kind of condensation by minimizing temperature swings on the glass surface.

And don’t forget the little things like sealing air leaks around windows and doors, opening blinds or drapes during the day to improve air circulation, and keeping indoor plant collections in check. Every small step helps.

Condensation might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it’s often a symptom of bigger issues in your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Take care of it now, and your windows and your wallet will thank you later.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Got a home issue you’d like Bob to tackle? Email info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Late Winter Tasks for Homeowners

As Connecticut homeowners brace for the final stretch of winter, it’s a good time to focus on a few important tasks before spring arrives. With the unpredictability of late winter weather, these tasks will help ensure your home is prepared for both the lingering cold and the transition into warmer months. Here are some key tasks to consider in late winter:

1. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters

Winter storms, snow, and ice can cause damage to your roof. Before the snow melts completely, it’s important to inspect your roof for any missing or damaged shingles, especially if you experienced heavy snow or ice buildup. Be sure to check your attic for any signs of leaks. It's also a good time to clear out your gutters. Ice and snow can cause gutters to clog with debris, which can lead to water damage when the snow begins to melt.

2. Check Windows and Doors for Drafts

Late winter is a good time to check your home for drafts. Cold air can slip through gaps around windows and doors, which can increase heating costs and decrease comfort. Walk around your home and feel for drafts. If you find any, consider adding weatherstripping or caulking to seal the gaps. This small effort can make a big difference in maintaining an even temperature and reducing energy use.

3. Prepare Your Heating System for the Final Stretch

In late winter, your heating system has been working hard for several months. To ensure it continues to operate efficiently, change the filters in your furnace or heating system. Dust and debris can clog filters, forcing the system to work harder. Check your heating vents and baseboards for any blockages to make sure warm air flows freely throughout your home. If you haven’t had a professional checkup yet, consider scheduling one before the coldest months are behind you.

4. Check for Ice Dams

Ice dams are a common issue in Connecticut during late winter, and they can cause significant damage to your roof and attic. They occur when snow on the roof melts, but the water refreezes at the eaves, creating a barrier that traps water on the roof. This water can seep into your home and cause leaks. If you notice ice buildup along the eaves of your roof, take action by using a roof rake to clear snow or contact a professional to safely remove the ice dams.

5. Prepare for the End of Snow Removal Season

Even though the snow might be thinning out, it’s important to stay prepared for any late-season snowstorms. Make sure your snow removal tools are in good condition. If you use a snowblower, check the fuel levels and ensure that it's ready for use. Stock up on ice melt or sand to help with slipping hazards as temperatures fluctuate.

6. Take Care of Winter Wear and Gear

With the end of winter on the horizon, it’s a good time to inspect and organize your winter gear. Clean snow shovels, salt spreaders, and other tools that you’ll be putting away until next year. Ensure that your winter clothing, like jackets, boots, and gloves, are in good condition for the final stretch of cold weather.

7. Inspect Your Pipes for Potential Freezing

While Connecticut winters are generally mild compared to other parts of the country, freezing pipes can still become a concern, especially during extreme cold snaps. Check any exposed pipes, particularly in areas like basements, attics, and garages. If you notice any cracks or weak spots, consider wrapping the pipes in insulation to protect them from freezing. If you’ve already had issues with frozen pipes, it may be a good idea to check for any damage to the plumbing that could cause leaks as the weather warms.

8. Clean Your Fireplace and Chimney

If you use a fireplace for heat or ambiance during the winter months, make sure to clean the chimney before the season is over. Creosote buildup in the chimney can be a fire hazard, so consider scheduling a professional cleaning if you haven’t done so recently. This is especially important before you begin to use the fireplace less frequently in the spring.

By focusing on these late winter tasks, homeowners can stay ahead of potential issues and ensure their home remains comfortable and efficient as the seasons transition. While spring may feel a little way off, a bit of late winter prep can make the changeover smoother when the time comes.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.