Metal roofing condensation sounds like it would be self-explanatory, but there is more than meets the eye. When we discuss condensation on a metal roof—we are referencing the space between the roof decking and underneath the metal panels. Water droplets form on the windshield of our cars, windows, doors, etc., early in the morning as the sun rises. This is caused when the air reaches dew point temperature. This occurs when warm air reaches a cool surface. Condensation outside the roof is normal and nothing to be concerned about. However, condensation building beneath the metal roof is a huge concern. The everyday morning dew will eventually evaporate as the sun’s rays hit the surface. What happens when the condensation is trapped beneath the surface with nowhere to go? It certainly is not good news. Continue reading to learn how we as homeowners can detect, fix, and prevent metal roofing condensation.
Metal Roofing Condensation Causes
We create moisture in our homes every single day. Simply taking showers, doing the laundry, running the dishwasher, and cooking dinner will emit moisture into the air. Ventilating systems are incorporated throughout our entire homes to prevent moisture from settling into areas it should not. One place that condensation should never occur is underneath a metal roof. Did you know condensation under the roof is caused by the actions we take in our home? Condensation is formed when warm air reaches a cool surface. Now, we will discuss how this warm air transforms into condensation if not properly ventilated.
What Metal Roofing Condensation Forms
Doing everyday tasks, warm air tries to escape our house. The warm air will rise and travel to the attic. This is where proper ventilation is crucial. If warm air is not properly vented out or near the ridge of the roof, this will gradually warm the roof decking. The top of the roof will warm before the bottom, and this causes melting snow to run down and create ice dams. Ice dams block the ventilation systems, and this could lead to growing mold mildew in the home. Hopefully, it has not come down to finding mold and mildew in your home to notice you have a ventilation problem. Luckily, if any issues are found, they can be fixed. Creating new ventilation chambers on the existing roof deck will prevent stagnant condensation.
Preventing Metal Roofing Condensation
Neglecting the proper ventilation of your home is quite a dangerous mistake. We create condensation in our homes, and it travels to the attic. If it cannot be properly ventilated, it will settle into the walls and insulation. Excess condensation buildup within a home is harmful to your health and the integrity of the pieces holding it together. How do we prevent moisture travel? Each home is required to meet ventilation code standards. The best way to prevent any kind of settling condensation within your home is to exceed the expectations of the ventilation code standards.
Ensure all the ventilation systems in your homework effectively and efficiently. Of course, we are not suggesting that its necessary to buy the most expensive top of the line ventilation systems to install in your home. Standard ventilation systems will work simply fine. We are simply suggesting homeowners to ensure everything remains working properly, so bigger issues will not arise in the future. Taking these precautions will protect your home and family from a potentially toxic environment.