A Weird Smell Is Coming From the Ceiling
Unexplained odors in the home are a source of frustration and even health problems for residents. There can be many reasons for strange smells emanating from a ceiling, including plumbing problems, animal activity, construction materials and poor ventilation. All of these issues can occur in large and small apartment buildings, as well as single-family homes. Knowing what is above the ceiling is the first step in determining the source of the smell and correcting the problem.
Plumbing
There are both incoming and outgoing plumbing pipes in any dwelling, and either type can be subject to damage. Incoming pipes that deliver water to sinks, toilets and showers can gradually break down over time and develop leaks. Freeze-thaw cycles, foundation shifts or damage during construction or renovation can all potentially create leaks. If there is a pipe leak above your ceiling, mold could be growing and causing the odor. Mold in the home is hazardous, as it can cause respiratory illnesses. Pipes that remove liquid and solid waste are connected to vent pipes that remove sewer gases out above the roof. An improperly installed or damaged vent pipe can trap sewer gases and cause an offensive smell.
Animal Activity
Animals such as squirrels, bats, birds and raccoons frequently live in attics. Their activity can be the source of smells in the ceiling below the attic. To enter the space, animals often damage the roofing or soffit materials. The holes they create can allow rain to enter and damage the insulation and wood. If these materials remain damp, mold will grow and cause odors. Excessive droppings and urine from the animals can leak through the ceiling material and cause odors. Mold can also grow and spread around these droppings and be a further cause of offensive smells. Raccoons and other animals that scavenge garbage can bring food back to the attic, where it can rot and smell.
Construction Materials
Some construction materials can produce strange or offensive odors. Thousands of products release chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can remain indoors for long periods. This off-gassing can come from paint, insulation, carpeting and many other building materials, as well as from furniture and electronic equipment. A recent renovation, however small, can explain a strange odor in the home.
Ventilation
Most building codes require ventilation for attics, but every home needs some proper ventilation, not just in the attic. Moist areas throughout the home, especially bathrooms and basements, need air movement to prevent the buildup of mold. You usually smell mold before you see it, as it has a very strong odor and can hide behind walls and ceilings. A persistent and unexplained odor from the ceiling requires investigation and proper remediation, as it could have a serious impact on the building or the health of its residents.
References
Writer Bio
Jean Godawa is a science educator and writer. She has been writing science-related articles for print and online publications for more than 15 years. Godawa holds a degree in biology and environmental science with a focus on entomology from the University of Toronto. She has conducted field research in the tropical rainforests of southeastern Asia and South America.
Photo Credits
- Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
More Articles
