Part One Avoiding Moisture Problems

Avoiding Moisture Problems

By: Bill Van der Meer

Auditors need to apply their knowledge of building

science and use diagnostic tools to anticipate

problems. Field technicians need to be empowered

to apply the proper materials correctly.

Since many of the moisture problems in the Northeastern US

tend to appear in attics during the winter, it is vital

that insulation is combined with meticulous attic air

sealing. The insulation is not the problem and attic

ventilation is not necessarily the solution. While a

certain amount of attic ventilation is required,

additional venting may make a moisture problem

worse. Dense cold air may enter the vents and cool

the attic surfaces below the dew point of the indoor

air.

If the thermal boundary between attic and living

space is not adequately sealed, roof vents may even

contribute to greater stack effect.