What Causes Condensation in Roof, Attics, and Lofts?

Condensation is among the commonest problems encountered by many homeowners. At least 1 out of every 5 homes in the UK experience too much condensation – often in the roofs, attics and lofts. This occurs due to varied reasons. Know about some of the main causes of condensation in roof, attics and lofts.

Loft Insulation

What causes condensation in my loft? This could be your question, as is the case with thousands of homeowners out there in the UK. Loft installation often gives rise to condensation. As the loft gets colder, it draws warm air from underneath – which goes up and comes in contact with the cold surfaces on the roof inside. This can lead to condensation, whether spray loft insulation UK or any other loft condensation solutions are used.

Over-filling

If lots of stuffs are stacked into the loft space or in attics, it can lead to poor ventilation and therefore – condensation. There are just a few tile vents in numerous older properties. In many cases, there is no ventilation at all. Thus, vents could be obstructed by the boxes and this could affect the free flow of air to the inside space. Continuous eave and ridge ventilation in modern roof designs might prevent this from occurring, but it is still not recommended that the loft be used as a storage space.

Poorly fitted or non-insulated loft hatches

Condensation in Loft space issues can also arise when the loft hatch is poorly insulated or not fitted properly. In that case, the loft space can be penetrated by humid and warm air from underneath. Loft Condensation issues can arise when there are ventilation problems in the loft space, and there is a perfect environment for the formation of condensation as a result. Excess moisture due to rise of air can lead to rot, mold and dampness.

The Thicker The Better

Putting extra layers of thickness into your spray foam insulation cost makes it perform in a better way. Adding thicker layers to your loft insulation acts as a strong barrier in trapping the heat from leaving your home. Think it like this way, the thicker your jacket, the warmer you feel, just like a jacket.

Even you can use few simple ways to reduce heat loss and heat transfer. You can include extra curtains, carpets, and draught excluders to stop convection and conduction. To reduce heat loss from the windows, you can use double glazing on your windows. Double glazing windows have a vacuum or air trapped in between these double panes of glass. However, keeping a vacuum in between the glass panes, there will be no convection or conduction. You can reduce convection by creating the double glass panes with air as this offers little room for the air to escape from the panes. Since air is a bad conductor of heat, therefore, you can expect fewer chances of heat loss through conduction.

Hot water tanks in loft

Condensation in loft in winter in the UK is not quite uncommon, and it is important that you check from time to time whether yours is in a proper shape. In case the lid is not sealed in a proper way or it comes off for some reason or other, it will release steam – which would lead to condensation inevitably. This can result in more severe issues. It is a good idea that you carry out yearly check-ups of your hot water tanks, especially before the winter season – when loft condensation problems may be an even bigger worry.

Reduce high humidity levels

High humidity can lead to condensation in lofts in cold weather and you should know how to reduce the same efficiently. You have to identify the areas in your loft that are having more humidity. Check for any signs and issues that cause moisture problems. Cracks can lead to condensation and you need to seal them properly for gaining more advantages. Spray foam insulation enables you to lower high humidity in your loft. On the other hand, you have to work with an accredited contractor who follows the best practices in the insulation process that will help get the desired outcomes. Read reviews of contractors online before insulating your loft with spray foam.