HAVING BATHROOM MOISTURE PROBLEMS?
Moisture problems in the bathroom are worse in winter months when it is too cold to open windows and doors. Daily bathroom activities from washing up, bathing, and other water use activities can generate moisture vapors and condensation. Without a properly functioning bathroom exhaust fan, that moisture build-up can lead to mildew and mold problems.
BATHROOM EXHAUST FANS REMOVE MOISTURE
Bathroom exhaust fans prevent moisture buildup in your bathroom. The exhaust fan, typically installed in the ceiling, draws moist air out of the room so that moisture cannot condense on surfaces such as your vanity, walls, and other bathroom fixtures.
WHERE DOES THE MOISTURE GO?
Ideally, your bathroom exhaust fan exhausts through the roof to the outside. Unfortunately, we find many homes with bath fans not properly connected to ductwork. Instead, the moist air that is drawn from the room is released into the attic space which can lead to bigger problems over time.
AVOID THIS BIG MISTAKE
A bath fan that releases exhaust into the attic, transfers moisture from your bathroom to your attic space. That moisture can buildup on surfaces including insulation and critical wood structures.
ATTIC MOISTURE DAMAGE
Moisture buildup on wood surfaces can lead to the deterioration of wooden support structures and the sheathing of your roof. Moisture penetrates the wood and splits the stringy fibers of the wood, weakening the stability of the wood. If left unaddressed, the damage can lead to premature aging and expensive damage to your roof.
If you store personal items in the attic any cardboard, paper, and cloth items can be destroyed. Moisture will often lead to mildew and mold. If mold develops and is left unaddressed, mold colonies will expand rapidly throughout the entire attic. At that point, mold mitigation is required.
Lastly, moisture can damage insulation. Wet insulation cannot properly insulate. When insulation is not working properly, heating and cooling systems must run longer to achieve comfortable living areas, increasing utility costs until the wet insulation is replaced.
SIGNS OF MOISTURE
Moisture is often evident in winter or spring when surfaces are wet to the touch. Other signs of moisture include dark stains on wood surfaces, evidence of mold growth. If the wood is soft and flaking, it is already deteriorating from the moisture. At this stage, repairs are necessary.
If you don’t see problems but discover your bath fans, dryer exhaust or both are exhausting in your attic, have the exhaust re-routed outside.
AN AFFORDABLE SOLUTION
Installing a new bathroom exhaust fan or making sure any existing bathroom exhaust fan is properly vented outside. Exhaust fans should be firmly connected to an insulated duct that vents the moist air outdoors, typically through the roof. This is an affordable improvement that can save you thousands of dollars worth of damage in the future.
We are Attic Air, we provide and install bathroom exhaust fans and install proper venting both new and existing bathroom fans.
WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BATHROOM EXHAUST FANS?
Call Attic Air For a Free Attic Assessment today! 630-830-3870