Attic Insulation Mold Problems

If left unaddressed these problems have the potential to sicken your loved ones.

Attic insulation mold problems.

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. Insulation problems related to age include old and deteriorating insulation to fallen insulation within the attic s interior walls. 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 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. 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. Mold is the result of excess moisture lingering in the attic. This makes it especially easy to spot.

The mold and mildew begin to grow which can be a health hazard for everyone in the home including pets. Mold is one of the more common issues found in attic insulation. 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. An attic inspection should also consist of looking for mold mildew and moisture.

Insulation may also be affected by other factors such as harbored allergens toxins or mold. If you re layering insulation atop other insulation don t use the kind that has kraft face finish i e paper or foil backing. When an attic is stuffy that indicates you have a ventilation problem which often results in mold problems. If you suspect you have moisture problems in your attic check for the following indications of excess moisture in the attic.

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. 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. This moisture feeds mold growth. Water or drip marks scattered on the attic floor.

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. 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. Moist or wet insulation. Black mold is one of the most common types of mold found in attics.