Summer is here, and so are the high temperatures to match. Now more than ever, to fix, you need to ensure your HVAC system is ready to combat the heat, but if your attic has excess moisture, it won’t be up for the job. In addition to putting strain on your HVAC system, excess humidity in your attic can cause a slew of problems, from mold growth and water damage to health risks for you and your family.
But how do you know if your attic has too much moisture? And if it does, how do you reduce condensation in your attic? Get the answers to these questions and learn four tips for fixing attic moisture here.
What Causes Attic Moisture?
There are several reasons why your attic might have moisture in it. Condensation in your attic can occur whenever warm, moist air from the main living area of your home rises into your attic. When the warm, moist air combines with the cooler underside of your roof’s deck, moisture can occur. If you live somewhere that gets cold in the winter months, this condensation will typically turn into frost, which is relatively harmless. However, when this front melts, it can cause your attic’s insulation to get wet, making it vulnerable.
In addition, other factors can contribute to dampness in your attic, such as:
- Poor attic insulation
- Poor attic ventilation
- Improper bathroom ventilation
- Improper dryer ventilation
- Hairline fractures in water pipes
Signs of Moisture In Your Attic
Not sure if you have moisture in your attic? Be on the lookout for these telltale signs:
- A damp, musky odor
- Damp, wet insulation
- Watermarks on the wall or floor
- Moisture on the windows
- Mold
- Rust
4 Ways to Reduce Moisture In Your Attic
If your attic shows signs of moisture, it’s important to take steps to reduce the overall impact sooner rather than later. After all, things like mold remediation are much simpler to prevent than to fix.
The good news is, there are several ways you can go about fixing attic moisture. If you’re wondering how to get rid of dampness in your attic, here’s where to start.
1. Keep the Rest of Your Home Dry
One of the easiest ways you can keep your attic free of excess moisture is by keeping the rest of your home dry.
Controlling the overall humidity in your home will help prevent warm, moist air from traveling to your attic. You can reduce the overall humidity in the main living areas of your home by using fans and opening windows to promote air circulation. If you live somewhere particularly humid, use your HVAC system or a dehumidifier.
2. Ensure Your Attic Is Properly Ventilated
Your attic needs proper ventilation to stay dry. Unfortunately, lots of homes are ill-equipped when it comes to proper ventilation.
Any areas in your attic that aren’t adequately ventilated are at risk of developing too much moisture. You can ensure your attic is adequately ventilated by having a professional company assess your attic. You can also use portable fans and dehumidifiers to help reduce excess moisture.
3. Ensure Your Bathroom and Dryer Vents Are Properly Ventilated Too
In addition to ensuring your attic is properly ventilated, you should also make sure that your bathroom and dryer vents are properly ventilated too. If your bathroom and dryer vents push air into your attic instead of outside your home, it can contribute to wetness in your attic.
4. Get Your Attic Inspected for Air Leaks
One of the best things you can do to reduce dampness in your attic is to have your attic inspected for air leaks by a professional attic services company.
Air leaks allow warm, damp air to seep into your attic, potentially leading to mold and the like. A professional attic services company will be able to ensure your attic is free of excess moisture and can help prevent attic mold with a quick inspection.
Schedule an Inspection With Attic Projects
Whether you need mold remediation service or an inspection to see if your attic has excess moisture, Attic Projects can help. Our professionals will help you determine if your attic has excess humidity and provide you with a comprehensive plan to fix attic moisture. Contact us today to learn more.
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