Attic Moisture Control

Most climates require these moisture control steps.

Attic moisture control.

They keep your home cooler in the summer warmer in the winter and free from damage caused by moisture. Controlling indoor moisture when you see moisture accumulating dry it promptly and deal with the source of the problem. A moist attic means moist insulation and moist insulation is less effective. If you live in a warmer climate you may want to air out your attic twice a week.

Two basic elements of controlling moisture buildup are minimizing cool surfaces and reducing humidity. The best solution for controlling moisture is at its source. If a vaporretarder is not present in the ceiling to slow migration of moisture from thehome s interior into the attic attics require 1 square foot of free vent areafor each 150 square feet of attic area. Freezing and excessively hot outdoor temperatures rain and high.

Storm doors and windows minimize cool surfaces in the winter by separating the interior from cold outside air. Vapor barriers only retard moisture due to diffusion while most moisture enters walls either through fluid capillary action or as water vapor through air leaks. Regularly airing out your attic is a very simple and effective way to prevent the formation of attic moisture. Ideal attic temperatures and humidity settings aren t always easy to maintain.

Attic insulation and ventilation go hand in hand. Ideal attic temperature and humidity settings. These can include installation of seamless gutters and downspouts. In most parts of the country passive ventilation is important for attics and crawl spaces and mechanical ventilation is desirable for kitchens laundries and baths.

Once a week open your attic door and leave it open for several hours. Why is that important. Moisture control strategies ventilation and circulation with outdoor air are the major moisture control strategies for attics and crawl spaces. If the problem is the result of water or moisture penetrating the foundation or floor slab there are many remedial actions which may help.

Ventilation plays some role in keeping attics dry but controlling indoor humidity. Adequate natural ventilation is important in the attics of homes. The main goal is to keep your attic temperature the same as the outside air temperature in the summer as well as in winter.