My Attic Insulation Is Wet

Moisture trapped inside of insulation is a breeding ground for mold and bacteria.

My attic insulation is wet.

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. A roof timbers within an attic can become damp from two sources. Once this is done the existing ventilation is usually more than enough to keep the attic dry. These can include installation of seamless gutters and downspouts.

If the fiberglass within your wall cavity or in your attic becomes wet from a leaky roof or burst pipe it will lose insulating effectiveness until the material dries out over time. Carefully watch your insulation for the next couple of weeks. Be sure to take the necessary steps to prevent water damage to your home. The best way to fix a wet attic is to stop air movement or leaks from the house.

The typical expected cause is water penetration from the exterior due to a defective roof covering. When your cellulose insulation gets wet you need to sit up and pay attention. A moist attic means moist insulation and moist insulation is less effective. Water in your attic can damage wood beams insulation and even.

The best solution for controlling moisture is at its source. It creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew and ruins the air trapping pockets that block heat flow. Though attics are typically hot and dry a leaky roof or pipe condensation or severe weather can cause water to enter your attic. Water is insulation s enemy.

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. If the problem is the result of water or moisture penetrating the foundation or floor slab there are many remedial actions which may help. 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 insulation becomes moist or damp its rendered useless. You ll need to replace it all. Box out light fixtures. It will need to be replaced immediately as it will lose its effectiveness to keep your home comfortable.

Wet insulation means trapped moisture that will slowly degrade the entire roofing system from the decking to the building itself. Issues such as blocked vents a leaking roof or even basement flooding can cause attic insulation to get wet.