Attic Insulation Mold Problems

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.

Attic insulation mold problems. 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. An attic inspection should also consist of looking for mold mildew and moisture. The mold and mildew begin to grow which can be a health hazard for everyone in the home including pets. If you suspect you have moisture problems in your attic check for the following indications of excess moisture in the attic.

Black mold is one of the most common types of mold found in attics. Water or drip marks scattered on the attic floor. 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. If left unaddressed these problems have the potential to sicken your loved ones.

Moisture or frost on the roofs sheathing. Mold is the result of excess moisture lingering in the attic. Moist or wet insulation. As part of the world s largest attic insulation network all of our dealers are fully trained and certified to completely solve mold problems in the attic.

Buckled or damaged roof sheathing. 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. Mold is one of the more common issues found in attic insulation. 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.

Insulation may also be affected by other factors such as harbored allergens toxins or mold. Insulation problems related to age include old and deteriorating insulation to fallen insulation within the attic s interior walls. 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. It may start as small black dots in moist areas but it can quickly spread and take over if left untreated.

This moisture feeds mold growth. 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. 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. If you re layering insulation atop other insulation don t use the kind that has kraft face finish i e paper or foil backing.