Attic Insulation Problems

If the home doesn t have an adequate vapor barrier and there are leaks then that water absorbs into traditional forms of insulation like fiberglass and cellulose.

Attic insulation problems.

Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. Vent baffles at soffit are covered or no vent baffles when new loose insulation is blown over older batt insulation sometimes the vent baffles at the soffit get buried. As this example illustrates it s important to seal the envelope completely. Another disadvantage to blowing insulation into wall spaces is that an obstruction in the wall such as a drainpipe an outlet box or any other type of unseen barrier for example a cross board.

When that happens you end up with an attic that is less energy efficient than before a second layer of insulation was added. The problem was that the installers missed some areas at the soffit in the attic above the master bedroom and gaps around the tray ceiling allowed the humid air into the room where it naturally found the cold surface to condense on. Although the insulation is dirty it is still okay to use. In cold weather you may see frosty areas in the insulation caused by warm moist air condensing and then freezing as it meets the cold air in the attic.

A moist attic means moist insulation and moist insulation is less effective. Simple thermal analysis reveals that if you have 5 missing insulation in an attic bare sheetrock you ll have a slightly more than a 54 drop in r value. Attic insulation problems mildew and mold in attic insulation mold is one of the more common issues found in attic insulation. In warmer weather you might find water staining in these same areas.

The best solution for controlling moisture is at its source. The most important first step is to vent that damned bath fan directly out through the roof. How to fix attic moisture problems the solution is extremely simple in theory don t allow warm humid air from the house into places where it will cool off and condense. Insulation may also be affected by other factors such as harbored allergens toxins or mold.

Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. R value simply means resistance to heat flow. Insulation problems related to age include old and deteriorating insulation to fallen insulation within the attic s interior walls.

If the problem is the result of water or moisture penetrating the foundation or floor slab there are many remedial actions which may help.