Attic Insulation Moisture Problems

Attic moisture can also contribute to ice dams.

Attic insulation moisture problems. If there are signs of rot on the roof sheathing then there has been prolonged moisture in the attic. In fact spray foam insulation can help avoid problems like these. 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. Insulating with spray foam insulation at the roof line will cause moisture problems with the roof sheathing.

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. 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. 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 an unvented attic scenario to limit air leakage as well as any associated condensation at the roof line a continuous air barrier is required.

Noticeable musky damp odor. Bad attic fan bad. This is why attics are ventilated with outside air. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material.

Additionally moisture can lead to mildew and mold growth which can exacerbate health problems for occupants. The first signs of a condensation problem in your attic might show up during a re shingle on your roof. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. It s the wood decking that stores the moisture though.

Signs of condensation in the attic may include the following. 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. 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. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation.

How can i tell if i have moisture problems. 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. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. In fact the attic is almost always warmer than the outside so it warms the air allowing it to hold more moisture.

Open cell spray foam insulation doesn t store the moisture.