Water Spots On Attic Insulation

Attics can be insulated in a number of ways including blowing in insulation or laying fiberglass batts.

Water spots on attic insulation.

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. Insulation is rated with an r value. This means there is likely water damage to any of the affected insul a tion. Attics can suffer two types of leaks.

Improper ventilation and insulation of home attic space can produce high humidity levels and trap. Water stains are an indication of water problem and hence the possibility. Water is insulation s enemy. 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.

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. Loss of insulating value. Inadequate attic insulation. Condensation on your ceiling can cause water damage and promote the growth of mold or mildew.

Box out light fixtures. It creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew and ruins the air trapping pockets that block heat flow. Water leaks are more obvious as telltale signs such as darkened water stains evidence of mold on the. How to deal with a leak in the attic.

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. In order to prevent mold from growing and spreading it s important to remove any wet and water damaged insulation and discard of it. I noticed a wet spot where the ceiling meets one of the walls in my garage. When i went into the attic i noticed the wet spot under the insulation as shown in the images below.

Commonly black discolorations on insulation material and wood can be difficult to distinguish from mold. Experts have told me there are usually two problems besides roof leaks that can cause these spots. The higher the r number the higher the insulating factor typically is so it s worth checking. One deals with the insulation since cold air reaching the ceiling when the attic is poorly.