According to experts, proper attic insulation can cut energy bills by 10% to 50%. Conversely, a lack of or damaged insulation can result in energy waste.

That’s why you should implement regular attic inspection schedules. That way, you can catch issues immediately, even if you don’t frequent this area of your home.

However, that’s just part of the reason. There may be more sinister things lurking in your attic that you’d want to address and eliminate ASAP.

We’ll tell you all about them below, so read on.

Potential Leaks

Asphalt shingle roofs can last 20 years, metal for at least 40 years, and clay, slate, and concrete for over 100 years. However, they require proper installation and upkeep to reach or exceed that lifespan. Incorrectly installed or neglected systems can sustain damage and develop issues sooner.

Once damaged, your roof can allow water to seep through your attic. This often leads to water stains and puddles on attic surfaces. It can also damage your insulation.

The longer this goes on, the higher the risk of rot and degradation in structural components. 

So before any of that happens, inspect your attic ASAP. Then, call the pros (e.g., roofing or insulation expert) if you suspect you have a leaky roof or damaged insulation.

Mold Colonies

Most mold spores only need 24 to 48 hours to grow once they land somewhere damp. So if your attic has been humid for quite some time now, mold colonies may already be infesting it.

Earthy smells are a solid sign you have molds growing in your attic.

Mold spores can also travel outside your attic, mixing with the air. Breathing this air in may lead to symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, and coughing. It may also trigger asthma or allergy attacks. 

Uncontrolled molds can also cause structural damage, as they eat anything organic.

You can remove small patches of mold (less than 10 square feet) with bleach or vinegar. If it’s larger than that, call a mold remediation professional.

Pests and Vermin

Rodents, including mice and rats, spread over 35 diseases to humans. These include severe, even deadly, hantavirus and Salmonella infections.

Once rodents enter your home, they can reach your attic and nest there. They don’t have to bite to spread diseases; contact with their feces and fluids can be enough.

Roaches can also infest your attic because, like rodents, they prefer to avoid humans. Other bugs like termites and stinging insects may also nest in this part of your home. Bats may even be sleeping in it!

So if you rarely check in on your attic, now’s a good time to do so. This is especially vital if you’ve heard scratching, gnawing, flapping, or buzzing. The first two are signs of rodent infestation, while the others are symptoms of winged pests in the attic.

You should also consider looking for a local pest and vermin exterminator online. Once you find one, contact this pest control company and ask if they provide a free inspection. If they do, schedule one ASAP.  

Conduct an Attic Inspection Now

Just because you don’t use your attic doesn’t mean nothing else does. On the contrary, it may already be a nesting ground for molds and critters like rodents and bugs. Since you don’t want these “guests,” perform an attic inspection regularly.

Don’t forget to call the right contractors, like a roofer, mold, or pest control, for expert help.

Do you want to learn more about what may be lurking in your home? Then check out our post on recognizing pest infestations!