Still, spray foamed attics are not without their issues. One of the most common problems that homeowners run into is high humidity levels. For an attic to be comfortable, its relative humidity should measure no more than 60%. If you find that your attic is feeling a little humid, especially during the warmer months of the year, then it’s probably time to explore some solutions.
Invest in a Dehumidifier
One of the most effective ways to manage humidity (not just in an attic, but in any indoor space) is by installing a Basementaire dehumidifier. The sole purpose of a dehumidifier is to remove excess moisture from the air. Most models allow homeowners to set their ideal relative humidity level and will then remove the appropriate amount of moisture from the air to maintain that level.
If you are planning on adding a dehumidifier to your attic, you’ll also want to add a condensate drain that will carry all the moisture removed by the dehumidifier out of the home. Otherwise, you will need to manually empty the dehumidifier, which (as you can probably imagine) will not be a fun use of your time.
Check for Leaks
Air leaks are a common cause of high humidity levels in a spray foamed attic. Even small leaks around gable vents, soffits, and other areas that lead outside can allow unwanted air to enter the attic and increase its relative humidity. This is where you’ll want to tell your customers to check if the vents and soffits are sealed off. If there are any leaks or gaps, instruct them to seal these areas off quickly. This will help prevent outdoor air from entering the attic, which will reduce humidity issues while also reaping the most energy-efficient benefits from a spray foam attic.
Evaluate Pressure
Pressure issues can also result in higher-than-normal humidity levels in a spray foamed attic. This may be the case if there is any leaky ductwork throughout the home that could be pulling air directly from the attic, which, in turn, creates a negative pressure environment that can affect humidity.
There are other possible causes of pressure problems, too, so it’s good to do a pressure test inside the home to determine potential sources and remedy them as needed.
Enjoy a Drier Attic
Dealing with high humidity in a spray foam insulated attic can be a real headache. However, the good news is that these issues tend to be relatively easy to resolve. With a little testing and troubleshooting, it’s easy for a homeowner to achieve ideal relative humidity inside an attic and continue enjoying the benefits of new spray foam insulation.
If you’re looking to troubleshoot attic humidity problems, Dr. Energy Saver of Hudson Valley always has the tools you need. Give us a call at 1-845-361-1110, or visit us at foamcoinc.com to schedule your no-obligation consultation with one of our expert Insulation Specialists today!