Hey everyone! I'm dealing with a frustrating moisture issue in my bathroom wall that dates back to 1904. I noticed condensation on the back of the light switch cover, which led me to inspect further. When I cut into the drywall, I found water droplets at the bottom of the junction box. The wall is uninsulated, featuring wood planking on one side and drywall on the other. The wood is damp from the middle down but dry towards the attic. I confirmed there are no plumbing pipes above the wall, and the sink and shower are located on the opposite wall.
Initially, I thought it might be due to a roof leak, but I've checked the attic multiple times without any signs of water. I even used a thermal imaging gun to find cold air leaking from an A/C register, which might be causing condensation when it meets the warmer air from inside the wall.
I've already sealed gaps around the A/C register and added foam board insulation in the crawl space, but I still need help! How can I address this condensation without calling a specialist? Should I consider adding insulation to the wall cavity? Could there be another hidden issue I'm overlooking? Any advice from those who've faced similar situations with old walls and HVAC condensation would be super helpful. Thanks!
2 Answers
Using a thermal imaging camera is a great move! It can definitely help pinpoint the cold spots causing issues. Your theory about condensation from the A/C air mixing with warm air makes a lot of sense, and sealing the gaps was a smart step. Keep an eye on that register!
It sounds like the moisture could be from the exterior too, especially if the wood is damp. If it's feasible, a fresh coat of paint on the siding might help seal things up. It's worth a shot since it can keep moisture at bay!
Definitely check the siding! Old houses can have tricky moisture problems, but some simple maintenance could make a difference.
I agree, those thermal cameras can work wonders! Just make sure to check for any hidden drafts that might be sneaking in.