Is There Mold Growing on Your Attic Insulation?

\If you’ve been noticing a musty odor in your Central New York home, then you might be having a problem with moisture. One of the main culprits might be improper venting into your attic – if your bathroom fans are venting there, your home insulation could be in serious jeopardy.

Why might mold be growing on your attic insulation? Well, technically speaking, mold doesn’t grow directly on insulation, but settles there after falling from roof sheathing, or grows on dust on top of the insulation. Regardless of where the mold originated, a moisture issue in the attic is most likely causing it – and if your fans are venting there, that’s the likely cause.

If you suspect mold growth in your attic, there are some telltale signs that you should look for:

• Your attic is damp and there is moisture condensation on surfaces
• There is a musty smell in your attic and the surrounding area
• There are indications of moisture or mold growth in your ceilings
• There may be ice damming on your roof in the winter (shows the presence of too much moisture)
• In extreme cases, there may be wood rot in your support beams

When you look for mold on your insulation, you’ll notice a thin grey or black layer on the top of the insulation. Mold growth can be harmful to your health. If there is significant mold growth on your attic insulation, removal and replacement is recommended.

Standard can help you if you are in need of new attic insulation because of moisture issues. We won’t just remove the old insulation and replace it, either. We’ll make sure your mold situation is under control, and we’ll take proper measures so that your fans are venting moisture outside of your attic – and away from your insulation. Call us toll-free at 800-738-1424 and let us assist you with your attic insulation.

About Jason Porter

Jason Porter is Vice President of Operations at Standard and has over 25 years in the insulation and construction industry. He is a BPI-certified energy auditor and is the company’s leading expert in insulation and energy efficiency for homeowners and renters and the Mohawk Valley and the Capital Region.