Water Spots On Attic Insulation

Water is insulation s enemy.

Water spots on attic insulation.

Water leaks are more obvious as telltale signs such as darkened water stains evidence of mold on the. The insulation is wet to the touch near the spot and appears to be taking water in from up and behind where it s tucked in. Loss of insulating value. Inadequate attic insulation.

Also we wonder if in a soaked area like this where fiberglass insulation is present because of the risk of hidden mold in the insulation see fiberglass insulation mold it may be worth checking the attic side of the ceiling drywall below the areas of most apparent worst leakage into that space looking for water stains there mold c. Water stains are an indication of water problem and hence the possibility. Box out light fixtures. One deals with the insulation since cold air reaching the ceiling when the attic is poorly.

Experts have told me there are usually two problems besides roof leaks that can cause these spots. Attics can be insulated in a number of ways including blowing in insulation or laying fiberglass batts. Condensation on your ceiling can cause water damage and promote the growth of mold or mildew. It creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew and ruins the air trapping pockets that block heat flow.

This means there is likely water damage to any of the affected insul a tion. In order for water to get down into the main area of your home it had to travel through your attic insulation. In order to prevent mold from growing and spreading it s important to remove any wet and water damaged insulation and discard of it. 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.

Insulation is rated with an r value. When i went into the attic i noticed the wet spot under the insulation as shown in the images below. Similarly if the mold has matured and degenerated it is difficult to recognize since it rubs off the surface leaving only stained spots or patches. How to deal with a leak in the attic.

Improper ventilation and insulation of home attic space can produce high humidity levels and trap. Insulation in the attic is often the first victim when roof leaks occur or when plumbing pipes routed through the attic leak. The higher the r number the higher the insulating factor typically is so it s worth checking. I noticed a wet spot where the ceiling meets one of the walls in my garage.