When you think about moisture and humidity in your home, you’re probably not thinking about your roof or attic, but you should. Excess humidity in your attic can cause mildew and fungus growth, water damage, health risks for you and your family, and other issues.

There are several reasons why your attic might have moisture in it. Your attic may get condensation whenever warm, moist air from the main living area of your home rises into your attic. When the warm, moist air combines with the cooler air, it causes moisture to occur.

There are several reasons why you may have moisture in your attic, such as:

Fractures in water pipes.
Poor attic insulation.
Poor attic ventilation.
Improper bathroom ventilation.
Improper dryer ventilation.

Proper ventilation is crucial. Venting to the attic is a common practice but it should not be done because it is a major source of mildew and fungus and moisture in the attic. It can negatively affect home health and may even violate local building codes. Kitchen ranges, bathroom exhaust fans, and dryers should vent their moist air outside where it belong.

Signs of attic moisture include mildew and fungus, rust, moisture on the windows, watermarks on the wall or floor, damp insulation, and a musky odor. You may also notice:

Warped or rotted wood soffit panels or fascia board
Warped or rotting wood in the attic
Worn or warped shingles at roof edges
Bubbled paint at fascia boards or soffits
Wet insulation in the attic
Mildew and fungus on attic surfaces

Moisture Control Tips and Tricks

You can do your part to reduce moisture in the roof and attic of your home. Here are some tips:

Properly ventilate your home. This will allow heat and moisture to escape. Adequate airflow helps regulate temperature and humidity levels. You can also install soffit and ridge vents to create a continuous airflow pattern to air with ventilation.
Insulate your home. Make sure your attic is well-insulated to prevent warm, moist air from the living spaces from reaching the cold underside of the roof. Choose the right type and amount of insulation for your climate.
Seal openings. Look for any gaps or cracks in the attic and roof to prevent warm, humid indoor air from entering the attic. Look around light fixtures, chimneys, and plumbing vents. You can use caulk, spray foam, or weatherstripping to seal these gaps.
Clean gutters and downspouts. Gutters and downspouts should be clean and free of debris. This will help ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which may seep into the attic.
Install attic fans. Consider installing attic fans to help regulate temperature and humidity. These fans can help reduce heat and moisture buildup.
Insulate and ventilate properly. Ensure that your insulation and ventilation systems work together effectively. Poorly designed or incorrectly installed systems can cause moisture problems to worsen.
Monitor indoor humidity. Keep indoor humidity levels within 30% to 50% to minimize the potential for condensation in the attic. Using a dehumidifier can be helpful for controlling indoor humidity during humid months.
Look for roof leaks. If you notice any signs of roof leaks, such as water stains on ceilings or walls, address the issue immediately before it gets worse.
Perform seasonal maintenance. Maintain your roof several times a year by cleaning gutters, inspecting for damage, and replacing worn shingles.
Do regular inspections. You should assess your roof several times a year for leaks and damage. Make any necessary repairs or replacements promptly to prevent water infiltration.
Get a professional inspection. Even if you do your own assessment, do you know what to look for? Did you miss anything? Get a professional’s opinion. Golden Circle Exterminators can assess your attic and roof for moisture issues. We will look for even the most subtle details. We are moisture control experts who can provide recommendations specific to your situation, so contact us for solutions that will fit your needs.

Contact Us Today about Roof and Attic Moisture Control

We don’t see our attics and roofs on a daily basis, so how can we tell if there is too much moisture? Start with a professional inspection.

If you notice any type of mildew and fungus, you may have a moisture problem in your home. The team at Golden Circle Exterminators can provide you with a free moisture control evaluation and treatment. Make your home more comfortable. Give us a call at (731) 668-4887 to get started.