Moisture trapped inside of insulation is a breeding ground for mold and bacteria.
My attic insulation is wet.
When your cellulose insulation gets wet you need to sit up and pay attention.
Though attics are typically hot and dry a leaky roof or pipe condensation or severe weather can cause water to enter your attic.
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.
A moist attic means moist insulation and moist insulation is less effective.
The typical expected cause is water penetration from the exterior due to a defective roof covering.
Issues such as blocked vents a leaking roof or even basement flooding can cause attic insulation to get wet.
The best solution for controlling moisture is at its source.
Water is insulation s enemy.
These can include installation of seamless gutters and downspouts.
It is important to stop air leaks because a heated house is much like a chimney.
If it starts to have a funny smell it s a sign that the water that contaminated the insulation was dirty.
If the problem is the result of water or moisture penetrating the foundation or floor slab there are many remedial actions which may help.
Trapped moisture encourages corrosion of roofing fasteners and rusting of steel studs and wall ties which reduce wind uplift ratings.
It creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew and ruins the air trapping pockets that block heat flow.
It will need to be replaced immediately as it will lose its effectiveness to keep your home comfortable.
If the fiberglass within your wall cavity or in your attic becomes wet from a leaky roof or burst pipe it will lose insulating effectiveness until the material dries out over time.
My cellulose insulation is wet.
Be sure to take the necessary steps to prevent water damage to your home.
If you believe moisture is a problem in your attic go and inspect it for signs of mold and mildew.
You ll need to replace it all.
A roof timbers within an attic can become damp from two sources.
Small black and or greenish colored dots on insulation boxes or other materials is a sign of an exceedingly high moisture content in the air.
If insulation becomes moist or damp its rendered useless.
Carefully watch your insulation for the next couple of weeks.
Wet insulation means trapped moisture that will slowly degrade the entire roofing system from the decking to the building itself.
Once this is done the existing ventilation is usually more than enough to keep the attic dry.
