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Re: condensation on vaulted ceilings

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Other/Misc
Remote Name: 202.108.136.73
Date: 09 May 2001
Time: 10:39 PM

Comments

If you're seeing condensation already, this is a sign of things to come. Proper ventilation is essential in vaulted ceilings (or any ceiling for that matter). Trapping stale air between the roof and the sheetrock will result in dry rot and possible severe condensation problems. The building code specifies the minimum acceptable clear venting area for attics and ceilings. Ideally, you want to bring in fresh air from the eaves...and provide an insulation baffle to prevent the opening from being blocked by the insulation. Fresh air should flow up the rafters and be released through a ridge vent or other means, including passive or active (such as a fan). Special insulation is available that has a higher "R" rating per inch and is specifically designed for vaulted ceilings, while leaving enough clear space for air flow. Do not use regular insulation....and stuff the chamber full...which will only prevent air movement, trapping stale, moist air.

With a vaulted ceiling, if you didn't plan for this, your choices are more limited. However, you can still have air intake at the eaves...and drill holes near the tops of the rafters to allow some air flow into a strategically placed rooftop vent. If you drill holes, don't violate the integrity or load-bearing capacity of the rafters.

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