Checking Attic Leaks

Attic condensation is due to humid air leaking or vented into the attic.

Checking attic leaks.

Leaking air ducts can lead to a significant loss of heated and cooled air. Investigate appliances and fixtures. This air leaks into your attic space and never reaches your living area which. If you don t want to wait for rain to look for the leak try bringing the garden hose up on the roof.

See basic ladder safety if you intend to use a ladder. Check for air leaks. If you do not have built in pull down stairs then use a sturdy ladder to access the attic area. Where you see light shine through that spot has an air leak.

The spots where two air ducts connect are common places for leaks to occur. Check the duct joints. Visual inspection for gaps and cracks. Examine the entire attic roof underside surface for evidence of water intrusion.

Have a helper stationed in the attic with a flashlight looking for moisture. The location of the actual entry point of the water into the attic space may be slightly different than where the leak. The greater the amount of air that s flowing through the easier it will be to find air duct leaks. Insulation is responsible for keeping warm air inside your living space and out of the attic where it can lead to condensation.

Be sure to start small. Inspect your attic insulation. If your hvac system isn t blowing air when you re checking your ductwork you won t be able to locate less obvious leaks. If you have taken the proper steps to remove excess humid air from your home and you re still having condensation issues it might be time to check the attic insulation.

Vent humid air from kitchens and bathrooms to the outside instead of the attic to avoid this problem. You may see stained or discolored wood areas that will lead you to the source of the leak. Review the active leak and note the surface where the leak is dripping from. Just be careful when you get up walk crawl around in an att.

Run the water over the place where you think the leak might be located. Don t go crazy with the water. If the water meter test indicates a leak inside your home check the cabinets under the kitchen laundry and bathroom sinks to make sure they re dry.