Confused about whom to call for Attic insulation repair - ice dams aftermath

I would like to first remove the bad insulation that was caused by the previous winter ice dams and then increase the insulation in my attic. Later I would like to improve the ventilation of the attic.

I am not sure what kind of specialty person do I need to call for improving the attic insulation so as to keep ice dams formation to the minimum. Should I call a regular contractor or a handyman? or an HVAC person? or a company like Servpro?

Also for creating better attic ventilation, whom should I be calling?

Thanks for any inputs.

 

Most insulation specialists could probably do both...or they would have a roofing company they work with. That would be my first choice if you don't want to DIY...an insulation company.

btw...the 2 things should be accomplished at the same time. Insulation w/o ventilation isn't a good thing in most cases..and doing the ventilation afterwards can make the project harder.

 

I'm with Vic - I would do the ventilation first, it's often tougher once the insulation is done and you don't want a lot of insulation without ventilation.

 

I'm a bit north of you so can speak first hand about the evils of ice dams.
1. Air sealing is number one. First, you want to do it before you add all of that new insulation and second, it is one of the primary sources of heat leaking into your attic. I'll attach a good link from Efficiency Vermont to guide you.

2. Second is insulation. I'm not sure what you have up there, fiberglass or cellulose, but blown-in cellulose is a popular fix as it is a good insulation and dense enough to limit air flow through it. For a DIYer mineral wool (batts) is good or even fiberglass batts. I believe the minimum for your area would be R-38 or better.

3. Last is ventilation, but as Gunguy said, it should be done along with the others. Soffits for the low vent area and ridge or gables for the high area. One square foot of effective vent area for every 300 sq ft of attic floor. Double that if you don't air seal.

http://www.efficiencyvermont.com/ste...ide_062507.pdf

Bud

 

Thank you ALL for your answers and suggestions.