St. Louis Water Damage Information - Water in The Attic

By Kevin Thole

14 Oct. 2016

Most homeowners think of the attic as a storage space. Did you know that our attics are an environmental pressure cooker? It is affected daily by heat, cold, and moisture that seeps in. Attics should regularly be inspected, and we should purposefully look for moisture problems. All homes generate moisture in the living areas, which naturally migrates up into the attic. However, if the attic can not disperse it, then moisture will condense on interior surfaces.


If your St. Louis home shows signs of dark stains on attic wood structures or beams, this is likely mold. If your roofing nails that have penetrated the sheathing appear to be corrosive, then you have excess moisture in the air. If you are not sure about these signs regarding condensation problems and water damage, then call SERVPRO for help.

The actions of our daily home use can contribute to dampness and moisture in our attics. These sources include non-vented heaters, unvented clothes dryers, green firewood stored inside and humidifiers. The attic is a seldom visited part of a home. If condensation builds up unaware, it will weaken the wood beams and framework, but it will also cause mold growth, ruining everything in the attic.

If the attic is not monitored and we allow moisture or water to build-up, this will very likely cause damage to the ceiling below. Ceiling damages can include discoloration, mold and the general disrepair of the ceiling plaster. Mold can spread through the HVAC systems into the rest of the home causing health effects.

An additional problem with water leaks and moisture in the attic is its effect on the insulation. Cellulose insulation is porous, it takes in the moisture and holds onto it. Damp insulation is no longer an effective insulation material. It becomes wet and heavy, which will weigh down on the ceiling underneath it, causing serious damage like sagging and likely a collapse.

SERVPRO of Affton / Webster Groves is locally owned and operated. We proudly serve our communities. We are water damage specialists with experience, expertise, and advanced training to help quickly restore your property. Call today (314) 638-7749 for a professional inspection to keep you safe from visible and invisible water damage.

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