Attic Insulation Moisture Problems

In fact the attic is almost always warmer than the outside so it warms the air allowing it to hold more moisture.

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. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. Open cell spray foam insulation doesn t store the moisture. This is why attics are ventilated with outside air.

Bad attic fan bad. If there are signs of rot on the roof sheathing then there has been prolonged moisture in the attic. 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. 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.

Insulating with spray foam insulation at the roof line will cause moisture problems with the roof sheathing. It s the wood decking that stores the moisture though. It s just a pathway. Additionally moisture can lead to mildew and mold growth which can exacerbate health problems for occupants.

Signs of condensation in the attic may include the following. Attic moisture can also contribute to ice dams. Moisture forming on the glass window panes or other flat surfaces. How can i tell if i have moisture problems.

Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. 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. In fact spray foam insulation can help avoid problems like these. 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.

Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. The first signs of a condensation problem in your attic might show up during a re shingle on your roof. It has a relatively high vapor permeance 3 perms at a thickness of 6 allowing water vapor to migrate to the roof decking at night and back into the attic air in the daytime. Noticeable musky damp odor.

In order to avoid attic condensation it is important to make sure that the attic receives proper ventilation and that it is properly protected from the outside elements.