My Attic Insulation Is Wet

The typical expected cause is water penetration from the exterior due to a defective roof covering.

My attic insulation is wet.

Moisture trapped inside of insulation is a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. You ll need to replace it all. The best way to fix a wet attic is to stop air movement or leaks from the house. Look for water stains on the roof sheathing or damp or moldy spots on attic joists and existing insulation as a clue to where leaks might be.

If the problem is the result of water or moisture penetrating the foundation or floor slab there are many remedial actions which may help. Wet insulation means trapped moisture that will slowly degrade the entire roofing system from the decking to the building itself. The best solution for controlling moisture is at its source. Be sure to take the necessary steps to prevent water damage to your home.

It creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew and ruins the air trapping pockets that block heat flow. If you believe moisture is a problem in your attic go and inspect it for signs of mold and mildew. Carefully watch your insulation for the next couple of weeks. My cellulose insulation is wet.

Trapped moisture encourages corrosion of roofing fasteners and rusting of steel studs and wall ties which reduce wind uplift ratings. Issues such as blocked vents a leaking roof or even basement flooding can cause attic insulation to get wet. A moist attic means moist insulation and moist insulation is less effective. If insulation becomes moist or damp its rendered useless.

It will need to be replaced immediately as it will lose its effectiveness to keep your home comfortable. When your cellulose insulation gets wet you need to sit up and pay attention. Water in your attic can damage wood beams insulation and even. A roof timbers within an attic can become damp from two sources.

Box out light fixtures. Water is insulation s enemy. Small black and or greenish colored dots on insulation boxes or other materials is a sign of an exceedingly high moisture content in the air. Though attics are typically hot and dry a leaky roof or pipe condensation or severe weather can cause water to enter your attic.

If it starts to have a funny smell it s a sign that the water that contaminated the insulation was dirty. It is important to stop air leaks because a heated house is much like a chimney.