3) Inadequate or missing attic floor insulation and vapor retarder (moisture
barrier) -- this insulation allows the heat and moisture to transfer from your
house into the attic area. A vapor retarder is a material or system which
adequately slows the transmission of water vapor.
4) Poor/improper cathedral ceiling insulation and skylight chase walls insulation
5) Furnaces and hot water heaters produce a lot of heat and if they’re installed
in a badly ventilated attic (i.e. not contained within a dedicated or enclosed
area or closet), especially in cold weather
6) Plumbing vents open into the attic and discharge moisture-saturated sewer
gases into the attic.
7) Uninsulated forced air heating system ducts -- in cold climates these waste
precious energy and also increase chances for attic black mold.
8) Poorly insulated ceiling penetrations, attic access panels, kitchen soffits
opening into the attic, etc. -- these can all result in some pretty dramatic
results.
10) A leaking roof -- mold in the attic caused by the falling house roof protecting
surface will be usually concentrated in leakage area and below it.
Adjusting just one or two of the items on this list could absolutely transform the
condition of your attic humidity level and therefore reduce the presence or
possibility of mold growth. It is important to stay aware of all these factors as a
homeowner and to install your vents, insulation, furnaces, and utilities in a way
that will reduce the risk of black mold development. Once you have black mold in
your home it’s very difficult and dangerous to your health to get rid of, so take
steps early to prevent it and you and your home will forever be grateful.