Water Leak In Attic Insulation

Though attics are typically hot and dry a leaky roof or pipe condensation or severe weather can cause water to enter your attic.

Water leak in attic insulation.

The two most common types of insulation fiberglass batts and blown in cellulose loose fill are vulnerable to attic water damage in two specific ways. If your attic insulation is properly installed and in good shape your home will be more energy efficient. Water in your attic can damage wood beams insulation and even. You want a nice big puffy pillow of insulation to stop any air leaks says olson.

It creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew and ruins the air trapping pockets that block heat flow. Box out light fixtures. 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. While in your attic look for areas where the insulation is darkened see photo a result of filtering dusty air from the house.

The dirt comes from dusty air leaking into your attic. Cut two layers of r 19 fiberglass batt insulation slightly larger than the hatch and staple duct tape to the hatch edges to secure it in place. Also remember to watch your step. At the very least shingles.

In warmer weather you ll find water staining in these same areas. During hot weather start working early as attics heat up as the day moves on. Once you seal the air leak with caulk or expandable foam it s not necessary to replace the insulation. Unfortunately many homeowners overlook their attic insulation and fail to include it in regular maintenance efforts.

Drink plenty of water and use an osha approved particulate respirator or double strap dust mask to prevent inhalation of hazardous substances. In cold weather you may see frosty areas in the insulation caused by warm moist air condensing and freezing as it hits the cold attic air. This is a result of moist air leaking into your attic and then freezing when it hits your cold attic. Water is insulation s enemy.

You ll also rest assured that you don t have contaminated insulation that can affect the health of your home. Cover the attic hatch with a pillow of fiberglass insulation. Loss of insulating value. Insulation in the attic is often the first victim when roof leaks occur or when plumbing pipes routed through the attic leak.

Rainy weather causes the first type of leak to be discovered.