Water Leak In Attic Insulation

Once you seal the air leak with caulk or expandable foam it s not necessary to replace the insulation.

Water leak in attic insulation.

Though attics are typically hot and dry a leaky roof or pipe condensation or severe weather can cause water to enter your attic. At the very least shingles. Also remember to watch your step. While in your attic look for areas where the insulation is darkened see photo a result of filtering dusty air from the house.

In warmer weather you ll find water staining in these same areas. Water leaks occur through roof failure ice dams and water condensation or frost build up inside an attic. Rainy weather causes the first type of leak to be discovered. Water in your attic can damage wood beams insulation and even.

During hot weather start working early as attics heat up as the day moves on. This is a result of moist air leaking into your attic and then freezing when it hits your cold attic. Take precautions to avoid a dangerous working environment in the attic. Water is insulation s enemy.

Box out light fixtures. You want a nice big puffy pillow of insulation to stop any air leaks says olson. 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. If your attic insulation is properly installed and in good shape your home will be more energy efficient.

The dirt comes from dusty air leaking into your attic. Insulation in the attic is often the first victim when roof leaks occur or when plumbing pipes routed through the attic leak. 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. It creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew and ruins the air trapping pockets that block heat flow.

You ll also rest assured that you don t have contaminated insulation that can affect the health of your home. Cover the attic hatch with a pillow of fiberglass insulation. In cold weather you may see frosty areas in the insulation caused by warm moist air condensing and freezing as it hits the cold attic air. Cut two layers of r 19 fiberglass batt insulation slightly larger than the hatch and staple duct tape to the hatch edges to secure it in place.

Loss of insulating value.