Does Poor Insulation Cause Condensation Buildup?
Moisture problems occur in homes for a variety of outdoor reasons such as poor foundation drainage and improper grading of the soil around the home. Problems can also arise indoors when pipes leak or indoor humidity is high. If you notice condensation on your windows or on cold surfaces, you probably have leaking air or poor insulation inside the home. If these moisture problems are present in your home, you may eventually notice mold growth, which can cause a variety of health problems. Does this Spark an idea?
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Identification
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According to Oregon State University, condensation occurs when warm indoor air is cooled down as it touches a cold surface in the winter. This is most noticeable on windows, pipes or walls without proper insulation. Air leaks also cause warm indoor air to leave your home and allow cold winter air inside, which also causes condensation.
Effects
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Condensation may be visible on single-pane windows or other cold surfaces inside the home. Moisture may pool up on windowsills, and surfaces may appear frosty. Excess moisture resulting in condensation can raise indoor humidity levels, causing mold to grow. People with sensitivity to mold or who have respiratory conditions may experience serious effects from mold such as wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms associated with mold exposure include nasal congestion, skin rash and itching eyes. Mold digests the material it grows on, often causing damage to the structure of the home.
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Causes/Diagnosis
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The most common cause of indoor condensation is poor insulation throughout the house or in a single wall, inadequate heating systems and air leakage. The United States Department of Energy advises homeowners to obtain an energy audit to determine if the existing insulation inside their home is adequate or whether it is causing condensation or other moisture problems. Contact a qualified energy auditor in your area for an energy assessment. If you do not wish to obtain an energy audit, you must inspect your home for insulation. Check the attic, garage, walls and basement for insulation type and thickness. Insulation is usually exposed in these areas of the home, making it easier to spot. If your home is fairly new, you may be able to obtain this information from your builder.
Solution
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If your home does not have adequate insulation, you may need to add more to your home to reduce moisture problems and condensation. The most common types of insulation are blanket insulation, foam board insulation and loose-fill insulation. Spray foam insulation is also a good choice if you wish to add insulation to your existing home. Insulation works best when properly installed. Contact a professional for the maximum benefits of installing additional insulation.
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References
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