Attic Insulation Mold Problems

If left unaddressed these problems have the potential to sicken your loved ones.

Attic insulation mold problems.

When an attic is stuffy that indicates you have a ventilation problem which often results in mold problems. Moisture frost and ice buildup on roofing nails. Insulation may also be affected by other factors such as harbored allergens toxins or mold. An attic inspection should also consist of looking for mold mildew and moisture.

Mold is one of the more common issues found in attic insulation. Health problems associated with mold in the home including mold in attic are wide ranging and include things like difficulty breathing asthma attacks the development of asthma in people previously unaffected by the disease upper respiratory infections sinus infections headaches sore throats fatigue and allergy symptoms. Frost buildup on the underside of the roof sheathing in winter when it s cold enough outside water vapor in an attic with improper ventilation can freeze on the underside of your roof. 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.

If you re layering insulation atop other insulation don t use the kind that has kraft face finish i e paper or foil backing. This moisture feeds mold growth. It may start as small black dots in moist areas but it can quickly spread and take over if left untreated. This makes it especially easy to spot.

Insulation problems related to age include old and deteriorating insulation to fallen insulation within the attic s interior walls. The mold and mildew begin to grow which can be a health hazard for everyone in the home including pets. Buckled or damaged roof sheathing. Moist or wet insulation.

If you suspect you have moisture problems in your attic check for the following indications of excess moisture in the attic. High humidity in a space like an attic can lead to mold and a spill in a carpeted area of your home that isn t quickly taken care of can also lead to mold under the carpet. Causes of mold while damp and warm climates are a prime breeding ground for our fuzzy friend other conditions that bring mold include lack of ventilation and proper sheathing. Water or drip marks scattered on the attic floor.

If your building has adequate intake venting at the soffits or eaves and good outlet venting at the ridge you may still find problems with attic condensation attic mold or roof ice dams in freezing climates if the attic insulation blocks the venting system. Unfortunately improper installation or choosing the wrong kind of insulation causes moisture from the lower levels of the home to rise and get trapped in the attic. Mold in your attic can compromise the roof structure and ruin your indoor air making your home smell musty and exposing your family to harmful mold spores. Moisture or frost on the roofs sheathing.