An attic (sometimes referred to as a loft) is a space found directly below the pitched roof of a house or other building.
Attics help control temperatures in a house by providing a large mass of slowly moving air, and are often used for storage.
The hot air rising from the lower floors of a building is often retained in attics, further compounding their reputation as inhospitable environments.
[5] However, unoccupied attics should usually be ventilated[6] to reduce the accumulation of heat and moisture that contribute to mold growth and decay of wood rafters and ceiling joists.
Areas with wind-driven rain, fog or sea-spray might also prefer houses with insulated roofs instead of vents.