When moisture is trapped between the roof and the insulation, roof condensation may result.  This condition may occur due to incorrect roof installation, insufficient insulation or ventilation, or excess moisture in the attic.

Roof condensation may lead to the growth of algae or mold, which can pose serious health concerns for your family.

Moisture can be produced in the home in a variety of ways. Steam from cooking, showers, and laundry evaporates and rises, and if your attic is not properly sealed, the vapor may be trapped in the area between the insulation and the roof, which in Sarasota is often exceptionally hot.

The moisture may not completely dry  if the insulation was not installed correctly, if it has been deteriorated over the years, or if the attic is not properly vented.

Florida Roof Condensation

Here in South Florida, attic ventilation works “in reverse”. In northern states, the warm moist side of the attic (which requires ventilation) is on the underside of the roof structure. In Sarasota, the “cool” side of the attic is the conditioned space and the warm side (which requires ventilation) is on the ceiling structure.

Therefore, in our area, the attic side of the ceiling structure should be vented to remove water and avoid roof condensation.

Condensation on Ductwork

Because of the high humidity and temperatures in Florida, we are especially prone to condensation forming on A/C ducts found in the attic. Condensation forms when the water vapor in the air condenses into a liquid form , which happens when warm, humid air comes into contact with a colder surface – like your air conditioner’s ductwork. To visualize how this happens, think of condensation forming on the outside of a cold glass of lemonade on a hot day. Condensation which forms on ductwork can be a serious problem, possibly causing leaking ceilings and mold infestation. If water is condensing on your ductwork, it is likely that there is not adequate insulation.

The materials used to create insulation are highly inefficient at transferring heat. Therefore, if you have the proper insulation around your ductwork, the hot and humid air will not come in direct contact with cold A/C ducts. However, if you do not have adequate insulation, the warm air will be able to penetrate and reach your ductwork, causing condensation.

The natural moisture in Sarasota’s air can also cause problems if there is inadequate ventilation in your attic.

If you suspect that your roof is not properly ventilated, call a local roofing contractor for information and advice as to adding roof vents. Without proper ventilation, moisture will build up and you may face mold problems in your attic. You may also wish to consider purchasing a dehumidifier for your attic or crawl space, which is a convenient, efficient and affordable solution to your issue. Dehumidifiers have a collection reservoir which can be emptied every few days, or drained to the outside.

Water in all of its forms can be very damaging to the structure and efficiency of your roofing and insulation. Given that our climate is so conducive to humidity – and we run our air conditioners virtually non-stop – it is wise to address the problem of condensation before it begins to cause serious problems.

The professionals at Avery Roofing Services provide inspections and residential roofing services to the Sarasota area – and we understand the unique problems we face in this part of the country. Call us today to get an assessment of your current situation, and to address any concerns you may have. The roof over your head is too important to ignore!