Wet Insulation In Attic

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.

Wet insulation in attic.

Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. Saturated insulation typically loses at least 40 of its insulating r value. What to do about a wet attic. 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.

Wet insulation is inefficient but more immediately it can be a hidden risk. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. 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. What to do with wet cellulose insulation.

Wet insulation no longer performs its primary function of inhibiting heat transfer. Loss of insulating value. Insulation sits just below the roof s membrane. There are many signs that an attic is wet.

Let the insulation dry out. When a leak allows water to seep in through. After all water is a conductor so wet fiberglass insulation is about as effective as no insulation at all. Pros and cons of cellulose attic insulation.

Disposal fees all dumpster rental and disposal fees should be included in your contractor s itemized quote. Once dry return the insulation to the wall or floor cavity where it came from. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. Drying out a wet attic.

When a roof leak leads to saturated insulation that insulation almost always needs to be replaced. For example it is rare to see moisture problems or ice damming on the roof of a detached garage or unheated barn. You can also identify moisture problems in the attic by the formation of condensation on windows and glass surfaces. If you choose to install cellulose yourself you can buy the insulation in bags from your local home improvement store.

If you can ensure good air sealing and insulation the attic will remain cool and dry as if it were outside. If possible remove the affected batts and transfer them to a warm place to dry. Keep in mind that these dump fees may be more expensive when removing hazardous or asbestos containing materials. To help fiberglass insulation dry out place a dehumidifier or fan in the area.

For many homeowners replacing attic insulation is a great opportunity to improve the energy efficiency of your home. Coping with wet insulation. Prolonged wetness will rot out the roof sheathing. Wet insulation is bad for your roof your building and its occupants.

If only a small area has gotten wet it may be easy to remove the damp fibers and let them dry for several days before reinstalling them.