Attic Insulation Problems

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.

Attic insulation problems.

Attic insulation problems mildew and mold in attic insulation mold is one of the more common issues found in attic insulation. 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. 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.

In warmer weather you might find water staining in these same areas. Insulation problems related to age include old and deteriorating insulation to fallen insulation within the attic s interior walls. 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. A moist attic means moist insulation and moist insulation is less effective.

As this example illustrates it s important to seal the envelope completely. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. 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. 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.

These can include installation of seamless gutters and downspouts. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. Insulation may also be affected by other factors such as harbored allergens toxins or mold. R value simply means resistance to heat flow.

If the problem is the result of water or moisture penetrating the foundation or floor slab there are many remedial actions which may help. 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. These thermal defects undermine the r value of your attic insulation.

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.