A point often overlooked is that since it s winter the water freezes on the cold nails.
Condensation attic nails.
This condensation can form droplets of water and accumulate into the insulation below.
Condensation usually forms on the wooden beams and walls in your attic.
A tool like this shoots nails through shingles.
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.
Good insulation is a must because it minimizes the amount of warm air entering the attic to begin with.
It can also cause mold to grow on roof sheathing trusses rafters and ceiling floor.
Attic venting consists of heavier colder air forcing its way into soffet vents and pushing warmer air out of ridge vents or deck vents placed near the ridge.
This accumulation can leak through the attic floor and into your living space.
Buckled or damaged roof sheathing.
Moisture frost and ice buildup on roofing nails.
The first signs of damage will appear in these areas there are plenty of things you can do to minimize attic condensation from occurring.
Simply clip the ends of these nails to eliminate condensation from forming there.
This prevents the gradual buildup of heated water laden air in the attic to the point that the attic space is warmed enough to hold watervapor and present it to the ice cold nail shanks.
Condensation in an attic will form first on nails that penetrate the sheathing and thus check them for evidence of corrosion.
During winters where cold rains occur you should inspect your roof to ensure there are no leaks where even a small of water can creep in.
This is why you see the frost.
Moist or wet insulation.
If you suspect you have moisture problems in your attic check for the following indications of excess moisture in the attic.
The air in the attic has water in it and it condenses on the cold metal.
The nails that you see in your attic get as cold as the outdoor temperature.
Sometimes roofing nails that come through your roof s sheathing can be home for ice cycles.
Localized moisture problems particularly around penetrations and at roof valleys are likely the result of leaks and not condensation.
Condensation in the attic is a serious problem that must be addressed by homeowners.
It is common for poorly vented and insulated attics to develop attic condensation.