Drying Out Attic Insulation

These conditions can compromise the health of occupants.

Drying out attic insulation.

Though causes can vary the most common causes are as follows. Wet insulation means trapped moisture that will slowly degrade the entire roofing system from the decking to the. Drying a large area of soaked insulation as well as detecting mold is a labor intensive process. If it s a leaky roof or pipe place buckets underneath the leak to collect the water.

Identifying moisture in the attic. To dry out a moist attic be sure to properly ventilate and insulate the space. Left untreated attic moisture contributes to mold and bacteria growth in the home. Because fiberglass batts are relatively low cost instead of attempting to salvage wet possibly contaminated material the better option may be removal and replacement with new insulation.

Box out light fixtures. Clean up any standing water with large absorbent towels or a wet dry vacuum. If necessary use a dehumidifier. Choose from two types.

Moisture in the attic is relatively easy for homeowners to identify as it s usually. Drying out a wet attic. Closed cell and open cell aka 2 pound and pound respectively. Take a good flashlight and a tape measure.

Spray foam offers the best attic insulation performance available. A dehumidifier may be used to reduce moisture in the air. How to dry out an attic 1. If the fiberglass within your wall cavity or in your attic becomes wet from a leaky roof or burst pipe it will lose insulating effectiveness until the material dries.

Coping with wet insulation. Wet insulation increases the burden on the building itself and over time can lead to warping and other structural. When walking in the attic in older houses step only on the wooden joists that cover the floor. If it is in a closet move the clothes out of the closet so loose insulation won t stick to them.

Spray foam attic insulation. They sport insulation values of approximately r 6 5 and r 3 6 per inch respectively. Locate the source of the water. Put on protective gear such as gloves safety goggles and a breathing.

How to dry out a wet attic top causes of attic moisture. The joists are usually spaced every 16 inches. 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. Water is insulation s enemy.

It creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew and ruins the air trapping pockets that block heat flow.