Figuring out source of dampness in attic

S

sillo

Guest
Hi,

Had a guy into a house I recently bought to treat timbers for woodworm (surveyors report turned it up). He seemed a bit concerned at levels of mold and dampness. Could not identify the source of dampness on inspection though.

Now the previous occupant was a beggar for having the heat on all day in the house, and it's been vacant for a period of time so not sure if those factors could contribute. I am keen to arrange insulation in the attic but obviously if there is a dampness problem it could be caused (I gather) by lack of ventilation - in which case putting down proper insulation may only exacerbate the issue.

Any advice on the best way forward for me, the most unhandy guy in the world; is there a specific type of contractor I should get in to look at the damp and try to figure out the source? should i just park the insulatino for a few months and keep an eye on the attic? I'm terrified of pipes freezing in the winter so I do need to get insulation in but not if its going to cause deeper longer term problems obviously!

EDIT: Forgot to mentoin two small things which may be relevant:
(1) Whenever I'm up there this last few weeks in decent weather it is VERY WARM - does this suggest poor ventilation?
(2) Almost no insulation currently; two pvc water tanks, no jackets on either.
 
Warmth in the attic and no insulation suggests that you are losing heat from the rooms below. This will add pounds to your heating bills. (Or euros)

When the warmth from below hits the cold underside of the roof it will cause condensation, so insulation on the attic floor will help both in cash terms and probably with the problem you identify.
 
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