Water Spots On Attic Insulation

This means there is likely water damage to any of the affected insul a tion.
Water spots on attic insulation. Water leaks are more obvious as telltale signs such as darkened water stains evidence of mold on the. Attics can be insulated in a number of ways including blowing in insulation or laying fiberglass batts. 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. It creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew and ruins the air trapping pockets that block heat flow.
Water stains are an indication of water problem and hence the possibility. 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. Attics can suffer two types of leaks. Box out light fixtures.
Condensation on your ceiling can cause water damage and promote the growth of mold or mildew. Similarly if the mold has matured and degenerated it is difficult to recognize since it rubs off the surface leaving only stained spots or patches. In order to prevent mold from growing and spreading it s important to remove any wet and water damaged insulation and discard of it. One deals with the insulation since cold air reaching the ceiling when the attic is poorly.
Insulation is rated with an r value. Experts have told me there are usually two problems besides roof leaks that can cause these spots. Loss of insulating value. I noticed a wet spot where the ceiling meets one of the walls in my garage.
Also we wonder if in a soaked area like this where fiberglass insulation is present because of the risk of hidden mold in the insulation see fiberglass insulation mold it may be worth checking the attic side of the ceiling drywall below the areas of most apparent worst leakage into that space looking for water stains there mold c. How to deal with a leak in the attic. In order for water to get down into the main area of your home it had to travel through your attic insulation. Water is insulation s enemy.
Insulation in the attic is often the first victim when roof leaks occur or when plumbing pipes routed through the attic leak. The insulation is wet to the touch near the spot and appears to be taking water in from up and behind where it s tucked in. The higher the r number the higher the insulating factor typically is so it s worth checking. Inadequate attic insulation.