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Clues To Determine the Extent of Condensation
Problems or Concerns
- Rust
on the nail points coming through the roof. The nails are in direct contact
with the exterior and condensation will always form on the coldest, most dense
material in the space.
- Small,
blackish stains on the plywood or similar sheathing, at the nails. As water
forms on the nails, some of the moisture can be absorbed into the sheathing,
causing the stains.
- Water
stains on the floor or deck in the attic, or in the insulation below the nail
points. This is caused when enough water forms on the nails to start to drop
off of the nails.
- Mold
starts to form on the north side of the roof sheathing, at the lowest point in
the roof system. This is the first clue that may require action. Mold is a
problem and proper ventilation is the solution.
- The
mold grows up the north side. When it is covering about 50% of the north side,
it begins to grow up the south side. This is a serious condition and should be
addressed immediately.
- If
the mold continues, it will become dense and start to delaminate the plywood or
OSB sheathing, or deteriorate the wood sheathing. The sheathing may become
black and wet, and actually look like it is raining in the attic. This
condition usually occurs only when there is 10 or more inches of insulation and
someone intentionally closes or covers all of the vents in the roof system.
- If
the condensation moves beyond the level outlined above, it will probably impact
the roofing materials. This level will typically require replacement of the
sheathing and the roofing.
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Attic
Main Summer
Heat Build-Up Winter
Moisture Other
Key Considerations
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