At HomeQuestionsAnswered, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
How do I Prevent Attic Condensation?
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
In order to avoid attic condensation, it is important to make sure that the attic receives proper ventilation and that it is properly protected from the outside elements. Two of the most common causes of attic condensation are high levels of humidity within the living spaces beneath the attic and moisture seeping in through the roof. For those who are having a problem with attic condensation, it is important to first check the roof to make sure that it is sound and that it is not allowing moisture to seep into the attic. If the roof is not sound, it should be repaired. Once the roof has been dealt with, there are a number of ways to manage the ventilation within the attic.
Sometimes attic condensation is the result of an attic being improperly ventilated. Adding a few vents to the floor of the attic that extend to the ceiling of the story below the attic can help to promote air flow within the attic. This air flow can cut down on condensation. In order to boost air flow, one can install an attic fan. In addition to boosting air flow and cutting down on attic condensation, an attic fan can also be an economical way to cool the house during warm weather.
It is also important to make sure a home's ventilation system is not pushing dampness into the attic. If the bathroom has a ventilation system to pull steam and dampness out of the space, make sure that this air is not being blown into the attic. Any types of vents that transport damp air should be checked to make sure that they don't connect to the attic. In most cases, these sorts of vents can be re-routed so that the damp air is sent out of the house instead of up into the attic.
Finally, take steps to reduce the level of humidity within the living spaces in the house. Humidity from these areas can travel up into the attic and create attic condensation. One of the easiest ways to control humidity in the living spaces in a house is to use dehumidifiers. In many cases, using one dehumidifier on each level of the house will make a significant difference. Just make sure to empty the water collection tanks as needed so that the dehumidifiers can be as effective as possible.
Diane Goettel
In addition to her work as a freelance writer for HomeQuestionsAnswered, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.
Learn more...
Diane Goettel
In addition to her work as a freelance writer for HomeQuestionsAnswered, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.
Learn more...AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![Toxic mold can spread quickly on porous and organic surfaces in an attic, including certain clothes and textiles.]()
By: johny87Toxic mold can spread quickly on porous and organic surfaces in an attic, including certain clothes and textiles. -
![Crawl space humidity should generally remain between 10% and 16%.]()
By: Are BarstadCrawl space humidity should generally remain between 10% and 16%.
Discussion Comments
Jolecter, gutters don't cause ice dams, but they can make the problem worse, so gutter maintenance is important. Actually, if you've taken the other steps outlined in this article to avoid condensation problems in your attic, (roof is sound and there is proper ventilation), and make sure that your attic is appropriately insulated, you likely won't have problems with ice dams in the first place.
Hymnomove, from what I've been told, I think some of it has to do with gutter maintenance. For example, if you aren't cleaning your gutters out when they get full of leaves and such, water isn't able to run out properly, and so when it freezes it can cause ice dams. I'm sure there are other causes as well.
How do you avoid these ice dams?
I live in a state where we get a lot of snow in the winter. I hear all the time about how this can cause ice dams on roofs, and if you aren't preventing these ice dams, you can get condensation in your attic.
Post your comments