Mobile Home Condensation Problems

Mobile homes are less expensive than traditional stick built homes and do have some advantages over other types of housing. But one common problem that plagues mobile home owners is the presence of condensation. Advances in the quality of mobile homes actually have made many condensation issues worse. Old mobile homes were drafty and there was lots of air moving in and out to keep moisture moving along its way. Newer, better insulated and “tighter” homes tend to trap moisture inside and cause several condensation problems.

Windows

When the difference in the temperature from inside the mobile home to the outdoors is large enough, it might mean you cannot see clearly out the windows. This is because of the condensation that builds up on the inside of the windows. The inability for air to flow freely in and out of the mobile home can cause significant condensation on the windows as temperatures change.

Floor and Carpet Damage

The condensation on the windows can cause more than just problems seeing through the glass. As this condensation builds, it runs down the windows, down the walls and onto the floor. The water can be a large enough amount to soak through the carpet below and even make its way to the wood flooring underneath. This water generally goes unnoticed and is left in the carpet where it can damage the carpet and eventually rot wood under the carpet. This is not generally a problem in the short-term, but it can lead to flooring problems over years of residence.

Attic Condensation

Mobile homes can get leaks in the roof, which will let moisture into the attic and cause water damage, but similar water damage can occur simply from condensation build up. When snow or ice forms on the roof of a mobile home, the difference in temperature from the frozen outside to the warm air trapped inside the attic can cause massive condensation. The water forms on the underside of the roof and runs or drips down into the attic, which may then lead to ceiling leaks in the living area of the mobile home.

Mold

Following build up of condensation there is always the possibility of mold growth. Areas sealed off from ventilation that remain wet for extended periods might develop mold growths. Mold can be hazardous to your health and must be removed from the home to keep it safe. Homes with tightly sealed siding or caulking in a moist environment are the most likely to have mold problems.