These hot, Georgia summers are a force to be reckoned with! Between the humidity and the sun beating down on your home, you have likely noticed that your home gets way too hot during the day. Of course, this isn't a desirable outcome, and you may be wondering how you're going to beat the heat this summer. Hopefully, we can help you do just that as we outline the reasons your home may be getting hot and how to fix it.
1. Attic Insulation
When it comes to attic insulation and summertime heat, you're going up against the Reverse Stack Effect. Simply put, this Effect is the reason that your home gets so warm during the day. Since heat is attracted to cool air, the AC in your home is attracting the heat coming from outside. Attic insulation helps retain cold air and keep hot air out, allowing your home's temperature to regulate substantially.
2. Attic Ventilation
Now you know about attic insulation, but you should note that while insulation does slow heat transfer, it doesn't completely block it. Since the heat isn't actually blocked, you will still find that your attic retains heat during the summer. If your attic is properly ventilated, it allows somewhere for this contained heat to escape to so it's less likely for it to permeate your living areas. If your house is not properly ventilated, your attic can get to temperatures upwards of 140°.
3. Windows and Doors
It's fairly well known that a lot of heat can seep in through your doors and windows. It's important to consider a few things as you look for the source of your home's never-ending heat. First of all, take note of the location of your thermostat. Is it close to a window or a door? If so, it may not be able to sense the true temperature of the home, causing it to run the AC too much or not enough. Additionally, you can cut down the heat by adding blinds or curtains to windows that let in a large amount of light/heat. Giant windows may be beautiful, but they're not always the most effective.
4. Roofing Material
Some of the best roofing materials for hot climates include slate roof tile, clay roof shingles, and rubber roofing. However, one of the most popular hot-climate roofing materials is metal. Since it's reflective, it reflects the sun instead of absorbing it. Not only are they highly effective in hot weather, but they also have a much longer life than that of asphalt shingles. You can learn more about roofing materials here.
5. Leaks
If you just can't get your home to cool off during the summer, you may want to check for some leaks in your home. These may happen around the attic hatch, wiring holes, the plumbing vent, open soffit, windows, or doors. If you can identify and fix these drafts, you are one step closer to having a home that can stay cool in the summer.
We hope that you can find some solutions so you can stay cool this summer!