Attic Insulation Moisture Problems

Common signs of moisture in your attic musty smells frost ice on cold surfaces in the wintertime foggy windows condensation on windows or other smooth surfaces visible mold wood rot the deterioration of masonry the staining discoloration or warping of construction materials.

Attic insulation moisture problems.

Open cell spray foam insulation doesn t store the moisture. In fact spray foam insulation can help avoid problems like these. If anything outside air passing through the attic tends to dry it out because that cold dry air sucks the excess moisture from the attic. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material.

Two of the most common causes of attic condensation are high levels of humidity within the living spaces beneath the attic and moisture seeping in through the roof. Traces where water has trickled down the walls. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices.

Bad attic fan bad. Rust moisture frost and ice buildup on roofing nails dark stains moisture or frost on the roofs sheathing water or drip marks scattered on the attic floor buckled or damaged roof sheathing moist or wet insulation. In an unvented attic scenario to limit air leakage as well as any associated condensation at the roof line a continuous air barrier is required. Additionally moisture can lead to mildew and mold growth which can exacerbate health problems for occupants.

This is why attics are ventilated with outside air. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. Attic moisture during the winter can decrease the effectiveness of insulation and over time cause significant damage to structural elements in the attic including rafters and trusses. How can i tell if i have moisture problems.

It s the wood decking that stores the moisture though. If there are signs of rot on the roof sheathing then there has been prolonged moisture in the attic. In fact the attic is almost always warmer than the outside so it warms the air allowing it to hold more moisture. Insulating with spray foam insulation at the roof line will cause moisture problems with the roof sheathing.

Noticeable musky damp odor. Attic moisture can also contribute to ice dams. The first signs of a condensation problem in your attic might show up during a re shingle on your roof. Moisture forming on the glass window panes or other flat surfaces.

It s just a pathway.