On the House
Home   >   Q&A   >   Insulation   >  

By on March 27, 2014
ventilate the house

Question

I am confused. Insulation is important, but condensation and mildew are a result of the radical difference between inside and outside temperatures. What’s the deal?

Westley

Answer

Good question! At first glance, it would seem to be a “Catch 22”. Insulating effectively is a key to maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home without paying an arm and a leg to the utility company. And, clearly, ventilation by insulation and the accompanying infiltration control. So once a home is properly insulated it is important to create internal air circulation, and controlled ventilation.Mildew causing moisture resulting from condensation, most apparent on windows and toilet tanks but, also existing in walls, ceilings and floors as well can be eliminated by causing the air in our home to circulate from room to room. Allowing hot air to stay at the ceiling will no solve moisture problems at floor level. A forced air furnace will move the air around, but if you depend on convection heating from wall-mounted unit to do the job, you may have a problem.

Ceiling fans, as well as the tabletop portable type, will of much to increase air circulation. Normal heat exchange occurring at well-ventilated attics (and sub-areas) will not help as much when there are heavy layers of insulation in place, but it will help keep moisture to a minimum. Steam vapors must not be allowed to congregate. Bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens need special ventilation to reduce the chance of damage caused by excess moisture.

Solution: Insulate, circulate and ventilate.

About onthehouse

You must be logged in to post a comment Login

Leave a Reply

Pin It on Pinterest