Roof leaks are BAD – they’re costly to repair, hard to spot in time, and can lead to every homeowner’s nightmare – mold. What isn’t commonly known is that attic condensation can also cause similar damage. So, what exactly is attic condensation and how can we prevent it?
What Is Attic Condensation?
Instead of water coming in from outside, as it does with a roof leak, warm air, and moisture within your home rise and condense in your attic. Picture it like this: On a hot summer day, a cool glass of water has condensation running down the outside of the glass. Your house is the warm outside weather, the water inside the glass is the cool Indiana winter, and the surface of the glass is what your attic may look like with inadequate insulation or ventilation.
Water damage caused by attic condensation can be just as harmful to your home as ice dam leaks are – sometimes even worse.
Signs to Look Out For
If you see any of these signs, it’s time to contact a professional.
- Sagging ridgeline
- Drooping ceilings
- Water leaks on interior walls and ceilings
- Jammed doors
- Cracked interior walls near the center of your home
- Creaking sounds
Preventing Attic Condensation
Attic condensation occurs if you have uneven or inadequate insulation in your attic. Warm air from your cozy home in the winter should not be traveling up to your attic – it should be stopped by insulation.
- Your attic should be receiving adequate ventilation, keeping it cool in the winter months. Insulation should keep the warm air from your house from getting into the attic. Make sure your home has both!
- Check the humidity in your home and minimize the chances of condensation with a dehumidifier.
- Ensure your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans are NOT directing humid air into your attic. These should always discharge outside of your home.
Repairing water/moisture damage can be over five times more expensive than insulating your attic. If you don’t remember when you last had your roof inspected – it’s been too long. Call 855-369-1004 or request a free inspection online and make sure your attic and roof are protecting your home (and your wallet) from a wintry disaster!
