"Installing a couple of roof vents sorted it out pretty quick though. Did your buddy try something like that?"
Roof vents are definitely the way to go, but honestly, it's surprising how many folks overlook proper soffit ventilation too. I've seen guys pile insulation right up against the eaves, blocking airflow completely. Sure, vents help, but you gotta keep those soffits clear or you're just fighting yourself. Learned that lesson the hard way myself—nothing like pulling soggy insulation out of an attic crawlspace to drive the point home...
Couldn't agree more about the soffit vents—it's amazing how often they're overlooked. Roof vents are great, but they're only half the equation. I've seen plenty of attics where homeowners installed ridge or box vents thinking they'd solved their moisture issues, only to find mold and dampness creeping back in because the soffits were blocked or nonexistent.
One thing I'd add is that balancing intake and exhaust ventilation is key. You can have all the roof vents in the world, but without proper intake from clear soffits, you're not creating effective airflow. I once helped a friend who had condensation dripping off his rafters every winter; turns out previous owners had stuffed insulation right up against the soffit openings. Once we cleared that out and installed some vent baffles to keep insulation away from the eaves, problem solved. It's a simple fix, but easy to miss if you're not looking for it...
Totally get what you're saying about balancing intake and exhaust—it's like trying to breathe through a straw if the soffits aren't clear. I've seen similar issues when people go all-in insulating their homes but overlook airflow. A client of mine had gorgeous vaulted ceilings, but every winter she'd notice weird dark streaks forming along the edges. Turns out, moisture was getting trapped because the insulation was jammed right up against the roof deck without any ventilation gap. We ended up installing vent baffles and tweaking the insulation layout, and it made a huge difference.
Makes me wonder though, how do you guys feel about spray foam insulation in attics? I've heard mixed things—some swear by it for sealing everything tight, while others say it can make ventilation trickier if not done right...
"Makes me wonder though, how do you guys feel about spray foam insulation in attics? I've heard mixed things—some swear by it for sealing everything tight, while others say it can make ventilation trickier if not done right..."
I've used spray foam on a couple flips now, and honestly, it's been mostly positive. The big thing is making sure whoever installs it knows their stuff—it's not as forgiving as fiberglass if mistakes happen. One project I had, we went full spray foam in the attic and the difference in comfort and air tightness was noticeable immediately. But you're right about ventilation being tricky... if the installer doesn't leave enough room for airflow or misunderstands the attic design, moisture problems can pop up fast.
I think a lot depends on your specific attic layout and climate conditions. If you're in an area with harsh winters or humid summers, spray foam can really pay off—just make sure you have someone experienced who won't overlook ventilation needs. Have you considered doing a hybrid approach? Sometimes combining spray foam around tricky spots (like vaulted ceilings or tight corners) with traditional insulation elsewhere gives you the best of both worlds without risking airflow issues.
Your points about spray foam are spot on. I went the hybrid route myself to keep costs down, and it was a good compromise. Spray foam sealed up those tricky air leaks around recessed lights and attic hatches, but fiberglass batts filled the rest without breaking the bank. Definitely felt warmer afterward, too. As long as you're careful about ventilation (and sounds like you are), you'll probably see a noticeable improvement...worth the effort IMO.
