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How To Get Rid Of Attic Condensation

stains on roof boards

The attic in the home can often be the coldest place in the winter and the warmest place in the summer. You might have fans in there to keep it cool in the summer months. Insulation is also part of attics to keep it warm in the winter. However, because of the warm moist air rising from the living area to the attic, excessive moisture builds up and condensation can occur. How to get rid of attic condensation? Make sure the attic is sealed, the attic has good insulation and ventilation, and the bathroom and dryer vents are routed towards the outside.

What Causes Attic Condensation

Attic condensation is caused by poor sealing in the attic, insulation, and ventilation. It is also caused by the bathroom and dryer exhausts that are not properly vented outside. Instead, they flow to the attic which is not good. Lastly, small hairline fractures in the water pipes can also cause attic condensation.

Mold growth in attic

How Do I Know If I Have Attic Condensation

Attic condensation is not something that is easily discovered. In some cases, you wouldn’t even know that you have an issue until the damage is done. Let’s take a look at some of the obvious signs.

Roofing nails – look to see if there is frost or ice buildup. Also, check out the inside of the attic to see if there is any rusting on the roof nails.

Roof Sheathing – look for signs of moisture or damage

Roof boards – check the roof boards in the attic to see if there are dark stains

Attic Insulation – is it moist or do you see any marks from drips on the floor of the attic

Mold – do you see any mold? Another place to look is the trusses of the attic and the plywood. If there is fungal growth, mold, and mildew, you need to call a home inspector who can check out the mold. They can refer you to a specialist if necessary.

If you see any of these moisture problems, then you may have moisture in the attic.

How Much Does It Cost

Depending upon the depth of the condensation issue, the national average cost for getting rid of attic condensation ranges from $1,500 to $10,000. Make sure that you contact a reputable professionally licensed roofing contractor to ensure that your attic condensation is addressed appropriately and at a reasonable cost.

Short Term Fix For Attic Condensation

If you need to wait for a professional, a short-term fix is to buy a dehumidifier to keep the humidity level low. Keep in mind though that it is not cheap, but will buy you some time while waiting for a professional. Also, you can use the dehumidifier in other parts of the home after your issue is fixed.

Adding insulation to the attic may be necessary if there is condensation.

Other Recommended Maintenance

While you are getting rid of attic condensation, keep in mind you may need to replace some of the insulation. The attic condensation can ruin it. Usually, insulation in your attic will last 15-80 years, depending on issues that arise.

Take a look around the attic area and make sure electrical tape is used on electrical wires. The tape also needs to be UL-rated. Using duct tape is a fire hazard so if you see this, change it out quickly!

Lastly, if the attic is not sealed, then you want to make sure that is done. Sealing an attic will not allow the air to escape and keep the temperature you want in the house where it should be.

When Should I Call A Professional

Anytime you are talking about attic and roofing issues you should reach out to a professionally licensed roofing contractor. In the winter and spring months, attic condensation can get extreme due to the added moisture in the air. Cooler air blends with the hot air leaving the inside of the home and creating this moisture and condensation.

Contact your local home inspection team to determine if a roof inspection is needed prior to the cooler months. They can recommend a reputable professionally licensed roofing contractor in your local area.

Conclusion

When working to figure out the condensation issue in your attic, contacting your local home inspection team for a roof inspection is key. They can provide you with a list of reputable professionally licensed roofing contractors. You can also get a home inspection checklist at this time, so you can know what other projects might be necessary, in addition to any roofing projects. 

It is highly recommended that anything dealing with a roof, that you utilize a home inspection service as well as a professional licensed roofer.  Call Waypoint Property Inspection to inspect your home in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Lakeland, Orlando, Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, and surrounding areas.