CAUSES & PREVENTION OF ATTIC RAIN

If there is one thing that we can count on here in Edmonton, it’s extreme weather variances.  Attic Rain is one of the most common winter issues Demi from Dwight’s Roofing comes across in Edmonton.  The temperature in Edmonton fluctuates from the ’30s in the summer to -40 in the winter.  These extreme weather conditions can impact your roof, but are you aware of what can happen inside your home?  Have you ever looked in your attic in the winter and seen a lot of frost or frozen water droplets?  If the answer is yes, your home has probably experienced a condition known as Attic Rain.

Let’s learn more:

  1. What is Attic Rain?
  2. Solutions for Avoiding Attic Rain
  3. Conclusion
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Attic Rain

What Is Attic Rain?

Attic rain is a condition that can be very common in Alberta.  The leading cause of attic rain is when moisture accumulates and freezes during the expected cold temperatures. The frost that collects then melts when the weather warms up again. It is essential to address this situation created by our weather fluctuations.

To be able to address the situation, it is crucial to understand what can cause Attic Rain.  Attic rains’ leading cause is heat and moisture trapped in the house.  There could be numerous sources causing this.  Some to consider are:

  • Inadequate Air Sealing:Edmonton has homes of all sizes, shapes, and ages. All houses share the need to reduce any air leaks in and out of the house.  Reducing leaks decreases the chance of attic rain, which will also help increase comfort and create a healthier indoor environment. During our harsh winter weather, there is a potential for too much air to enter the house. Ensuring that there has been proper air sealing of your home will help reduce the moisture build-up and decrease the chance of attic rain.
  • Disconnected Appliances: Appliances such as fans, vents, dryers, and kitchen hoods can cause issues if disconnected or not venting as they can vent the humidity straight into the attic space, creating an environment of excessive moisture build-up that can cause the attic to frost over. These appliances move air which can draw warmth from a room and eventually relocate it to the attic, causing the frost to melt.
  • The warmth from the Sun: The warmth from the Sun: The Sun can warm the space in the attic during clear days. Solar radiation from the Sun can pass through your roofing materials, transferring heat into the attic and causing built-up frost to melt.

Solutions for Avoiding Attic Rain

With the extreme weather we experience in Alberta, altogether preventing attic rain is almost impossible.  Even with the dramatic temperature variances, we suggest that homeowners take responsibility to ensure that they take necessary precautions to prevent damage to their homes.  Here are some of the potential solutions that you take to avoid attic rain:

  • Check to Make Sure the Attic Is Well Ventilated:A well-ventilated home will significantly reduce the chances of developing Attic Rain. It is vital to check the areas where there could be air leakage while also checking the ventilation system inside the house.  Proper ventilation in the home helps eliminate heat build-up from the Sun while also removing excessive moisture build-up.
  • Air Movement Needs to Go Directly Outside: Air movement created by using vents, fans or other appliances mustn’t enter the attic space.
  • Turn on the Kitchen Vents:A well-ventilated home will significantly reduce the chances of developing Attic Rain. It is vital to check the areas where there could be air leakage while also checking the ventilation system inside the house.  Proper ventilation in the home helps eliminate heat build-up from the Sun while also removing excessive moisture build-up.
  • Turn the Humidifier Down The ideal moisture needed in a house is 30% – 50%. In the winter months, most families look to keep a slightly higher temperature for a comfortable environment. Still, it is crucial to ensure that the temperature isn’t too warm and increases your home’s moisture.
  • Home Inspection by Trusted Roofer:A well-ventilated home will significantly reduce the chances of developing Attic Rain. It is vital to check the areas where there could be air leakage while also checking the ventilation system inside the house.  Proper ventilation in the home helps eliminate heat build-up from the Sun while also removing excessive moisture build-up.
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Conclusion

Roof ventilation is an essential aspect of your home. Protecting the roof and the attic space will allow you to avoid issues with mould and rot, which can be disastrous to a home.  Take the time to ensure that your home is winter-ready and that the attic has adequate ventilation reducing frost accumulation. Taking the time to care for your roof and attic will pay you back in reduced repair costs down the road.

For any advice related to Attic Rain in Edmonton, contact Demi or Trevor at Dwight’s Roofing!

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