Spotting a “leak” on the wall or ceiling is worrying for any commercial building owner. Most people assume this is caused by a gap or hole on the roof, but in some cases, those may not be the source. Moisture found in these areas is more likely caused by condensation in the attic.
Hiring a commercial roofing contractor to fix this issue can be less costly than replacing the roof, but it needs to be addressed soon. To help you determine whether it’s a roof leak or attic condensation, Hinkle Roofing explains the difference between the two.
How Does Water Condensation Happen?
Frost tends to accumulate in your attic during extremely cold weather. Heating your spaces during this time will produce warm air that rises. Once it reaches your attic, frost will melt and eventually appear as condensation, staining your walls and ceiling.
Does This Mean Your Roof isn’t Leaking?
Most of the time, leaks happen because of a gap or hole caused by severe weather conditions. If you can’t find any exterior damage on your roof, then the source of the water damage is likely attic condensation. This phenomenon can cause mold formation and poor indoor air quality, and can result in ceiling collapse, so it’s best to have your commercial roofing checked immediately.
Steps to Address Attic Condensation
If it’s condensation causing water stains on your walls and ceilings, here are some steps to follow:
Open all air vents. Reducing air circulation can actually damage your HVAC unit and compromise ventilation, resulting in condensation.
Run your bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans. Doing so can decrease humid air that leaks into other areas of your building, especially the attic.
Check your attic insulation. If you’re having a hard time pinpointing problems with your insulation, have a professional inspect and fill any gaps that may be letting warm air into your attic.
Whether it’s a leak or condensation, turn to the experts at Hinkle Roofing to address your roof problems. As one of the top local roofing companies, we have what it takes to keep your system safe and damage-free for years to come. Contact us at (205) 352-1940 or fill out our form to get started.
