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 attic insulation is wet.
Issues such as blocked vents a leaking roof or even basement flooding can cause attic insulation to get wet.
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.
Once this is done the existing ventilation is usually more than enough to keep the attic dry.
You ll need to replace it all.
The typical expected cause is water penetration from the exterior due to a defective roof covering.
Water in your attic can damage wood beams insulation and even.
If you believe moisture is a problem in your attic go and inspect it for signs of mold and mildew.
My cellulose insulation is wet.
A moist attic means moist insulation and moist insulation is less effective.
If the problem is the result of water or moisture penetrating the foundation or floor slab there are many remedial actions which may help.
It creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew and ruins the air trapping pockets that block heat flow.
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.
The best solution for controlling moisture is at its source.
Moisture trapped inside of insulation is a breeding ground for mold and bacteria.
Trapped moisture encourages corrosion of roofing fasteners and rusting of steel studs and wall ties which reduce wind uplift ratings.
The best way to fix a wet attic is to stop air movement or leaks from the house.
Carefully watch your insulation for the next couple of weeks.
A roof timbers within an attic can become damp from two sources.
If insulation becomes moist or damp its rendered useless.
If it starts to have a funny smell it s a sign that the water that contaminated the insulation was dirty.
Water is insulation s enemy.
It is important to stop air leaks because a heated house is much like a chimney.
Box out light fixtures.
These can include installation of seamless gutters and downspouts.
When your cellulose insulation gets wet you need to sit up and pay attention.
