No one wants to deal with water damage in their homes. That is why most homeowners are careful about their plumbing.
However, water damage can come from an unexpected source: condensation. Through roof condensation, your home can end up in serious trouble.
So, what is roof condensation? How do you stop it? Keep reading to find out.
What Is Roof Condensation?
Condensation happens just about anywhere there is humidity. When warm, moist air suddenly hits something cold, the change in temperature draws that moisture from the air and causes it to build up on something else.
While most people have seen this on an ice-cold drink, they don’t think of it happening in their homes. However, condensation accumulates on home rafters, joints, and other features.
The problem is that this water can continuously build up in a home. If enough gathers together, it will lead to water damage or create a mold problem. These are not issues that any homeowner wants to deal with.
Roof condensation is something you want to stop.
What Causes Roof Condensation?
When the air inside a home is warm and humid, it travels up to the attic. If the temperature in the attic is cold enough, that moisture turns into condensation.
Signs
The following are some common signs indicating a roof condensation issue:
- Frost: If you see frost building up in your attic, moisture is getting in and freezing.
- Moss: Moisture can lead to the growth of moss in your roof.
- Humidity: By measuring the humidity in the attic, you can tell whether you have a moisture issue.
Excessive vs. Normal Condensation
While condensation is troubling to see, it isn’t always a problem. If you notice a little condensation here and there, there is no need to panic yet. You know you are dealing with a condensation issue when you notice significant signs.
Fixing Damage From Condensation
How you fix the damage from roof condensation depends on how deep the damage goes.
If the damage is light, minor repairs should do the trick. By drying out the damaged area and replacing damaged parts, you can get the roof back to normal again.
You may need an entirely new roof if the damage is more severe. In this case, the cost of repairs often exceeds that of a full replacement.
Preventing Roof Condensation
Since fixing damage from condensation isn’t ideal, most people focus on prevention instead. Prevention methods center around roof moisture control and keeping roofing humidity low to minimize the chances of damage occurring.
Condensation solutions include:
- Ventilation: Your attic should be well ventilated. Roof ventilation allows the moist air to leave the attic before it can cause a problem.
- Insulation: Adding Owens Corning insulation in your attic and the rest of your home makes it harder for the warm, moist air to travel there. It also has the additional benefit of improving your home’s energy efficiency.
- Vapor barriers: If you’re truly concerned about condensation prevention, you can install VaporBlock® Vapor Barriers. These are another barrier for moist air that you can add between your attic and the rest of your home.
Repair Your Roof With Nelson Contracting
Roof condensation is a major threat to your home. It causes damage that will either necessitate repairs or an entirely new roof. If you need help repairing or preventing damage from roof condensation, Nelson Contracting is here for you.
If your roof is showing possible signs of condensation, it’s time to stop it. Nelson Contracting is proud to serve Lincoln and Omaha, NE. Call us at (402) 464-2418 to request a free inspection.
