Most people assume this is caused by a leaking roof but that might not be the source.
Roof sweating in attic.
If there is excessive moisture accumulation in your attic it will condense on cold areas mainly on the underside of your roof deck.
While we associate this condensation with attic areas it can actually occur throughout the roof assembly.
Wet streaks and drips remain the best signs but sometimes thermographic imaging is the test that identifies the issue.
To prevent frost condensation from developing in your attic you must eliminate or reduce the amount of air leakage into the attic as well as improve insulation ventilation to allow moist air to escape the roof.
Generally this is not considered a do it yourself job and is best done with the help of experts in roof condensation and ventilation.
The intent of roof venting varies depending on climate but it is the same if you re venting the entire attic or if you re venting only the roof deck.
If left untreated it can damage critical structural elements of the home such as the trusses and rafters ruin insulation damage any stored belongings and lead to the formation of potentially toxic black mold.
In the real world this means moist air from your house coming into contact with the underside of your cold roof tiles or the side of your water tank etc.
Excessive snow on the roof attic condensation and ice buildup can cause roof damage water damage and personal injury.
What causes water condensation.
Condensation in the attic is a serious problem that must be addressed by homeowners.
While stopping a water leak or repairing a washing machine hose down in the basement might be fairly straightforward snow on the roof ice dams and attic condensation are forms of water damage typical to cold climate homes.
Condensation will form in your attic if warm moisture laden air comes into contact with a cold surface.
Moisture accumulation is most significant when outside temperatures are very cold because air holds less moisture as the temperature decreases.
How does condensation get in the attic.
This is not workmanship related or an actual roof leak.
You can prevent these problems from occurring by maintaining a dry attic with a low relative.
The attic or ceiling may also benefit from being resealed with a vapor retardant paint or barrier so that the water doesn t reach the roof.
This may make condensation problems more difficult to notice.
Fixing this issue can be less costly than replacing a roof but it should be addressed as soon as possible.