Mold. It’s one four-letter word that no homeowner appreciates but probably encounters in their home. For example, the attic is the space many homeowners ignore, but it’s one of the places where your home is most susceptible to mold growth. The good news is you can do your best to prevent this problem from happening. These are tips to prevent mold from forming in your attic.
Ventilation Is Key
Without proper ventilation, the moisture levels in your attic will increase. Ventilation is particularly important in the winter when warm air continuously rises, enters the attic, and condenses on cold surfaces. Adequate ventilation allows risen moisture to escape. Therefore, ensure insulation isn’t covering any vents. If you’re unsure about your attic’s ventilation, contact a local professional to assess.
Regularly Check the Roof for Leaks
A leaking roof leads to moisture, which leads to mold growth. Check the wood and insulation for discoloration, as that’s a sign of a leaky roof. Ensure you pay close attention to areas where two parts of the roof join at an angle because spots like this are more susceptible to leaks and cracks. Areas around plumbing stacks can also suffer from leaks, so don’t forget to check there as well.
Vent Appliances Directly Outside
Bathroom vents, dryers, and hood vents should send the air outside and not up into your attic. Otherwise, you could overwhelm your attic ventilation system, causing it to remove moisture ineffectively. Then, you’ll have a moisture buildup on your hands, leaving your attic prone to mold. Contact a local professional if your appliances don’t directly vent outside. You’ll want to get this fixed straight away.
Adequately Insulate Your Attic
Insulation helps prevent mold growth in your attic. It helps control your attic’s moisture levels and temperature. During the winter, your attic should be around the same temp as outside. If it’s colder, it’s time to add better insulation.
Properly insulated attic floors reduce air transfer between the main and attic floors. Check the insulation around other surfaces, such as heating ducts, to ensure it’s in good shape. And as always, contact a local professional if you need updated insulation.
No homeowner wants mold in their attic, but as you’ve discovered, it’s possible to prevent it. Follow the above tips for a comfortable, mold-free attic space and home. That’s one less issue you need to worry about!
