How to Get Rid of Attic Smell With A Few Easy Steps

How to Get Rid of Attic Smell

Eliminating unpleasant odors in your attic may require a thorough inspection to identify the source of the smell. Common issues contributing to musty odors and other bad smells include mold and mildew, wet ventilation, and pest infestations.

It’s essential to address any unpleasant smells coming from your attic promptly, not just because of the odor. Odors can sometimes be a sign of a larger problem that requires attention. For example, mold and mildew growing in the attic not only cause a bad smell, but most importantly, they pose a health hazard. Untreated mold and mildew growth can cause respiratory issues as well as burning eyes, skin rash, and other health issues. [1]

Unpleasant smells in the attic can also indicate damage to the attic area or even the house itself. Many people who investigate attic smells find leaky roofs, leaky pipes, water damage, or structural damage. Had they not addressed the smell initially, they might not have been aware of these other, more serious issues in time to prevent any major damage.

Why Does My Attic Have A Musty Smell?

Unpleasant odors in an attic space are not uncommon. The first step in eliminating a musty attic smell is to identify the source of the problem. It’s best to spend some time in the attic troubleshooting any potential issues before going forward with a plan to address the odor.

Wet Insulation

Insulation can sometimes become wet due to condensation or a roof leak. If your insulation is wet, this may be the cause of the unpleasant odors coming from your attic. Fiberglass batts and cellulose insulation can cause the worst smells, especially if you have mold growing inside of it.

Mold and Mildew Growth

Attics are often poorly ventilated and have high humidity levels. This creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth. If you have things like cardboard boxes, wood, or paper, these can also attract mold and mildew.

Pests

Household pests often take refuge in the attic. If you have a pest infestation, this can cause various odors. For example, mold may be attracted to the pests’ excrement, causing a musty odor. When pests die in an attic space, the smell of their decay can create a sulfurous odor. Pests can also ruin the things you have stored in the attic, so removing them promptly is the best course of action.

Rotting Framing

Over time, mold can cause the framing in your attic to rot if left untreated. This can cause an unpleasant smell and may also compromise the structure of your house if left unaddressed.

Getting Rid of Attic Smells

The method you use to eliminate the smell in your attic may depend on the source of the problem. Once you’ve identified the source, you can develop a plan of action.

Ventilate the Attic

Whatever the specific problem, ventilating the attic space is never a bad idea. It can also create a more comfortable work environment by eliminating the unpleasant odors emanating from your attic. If you have windows in the attic, open them to let fresh air into the room.

There are other long-term measures you can take to improve ventilation, such as adding or unblocking soffit vents or gable vents. [2] Sometimes, vents can get clogged with insulation or dust. Unblocking them not only increases airflow but can also release trapped air, preventing it from becoming condensation. A dry attic is a healthier (and better-smelling) attic.

Finally, you can install an attic fan to improve air circulation in and around the area. A good fan can also contribute to a drier environment in your attic space. Try to get the best attic fan in your price range for optimal results. [3]

Remove Any Mold or Mildew

Mold and mildew can be the source of a musty attic smell, but they can also cause health problems if left untreated. To avoid inhaling mold spores, wear a mask. You’ll want to remove mold or mildew from any items in the attic that are affected by it. Look for mold on cardboard boxes, beams, roof sheathing, and any stored furniture. Clean everything with a mold and mildew remover or bleach, and be sure to dry it afterwards to prevent excess moisture from being left behind.

Address Any Pest Infestations

Find and remove any infestations of mice, squirrels, or other pests. This may involve removing dead animals from the space, along with their urine and feces. This should always be done with gloves, as animals and animal excrement can be a source of harmful bacteria. Be sure to clean and disinfect the area after all traces of the pests have been removed.

Replace Wet Insulation

Wet insulation can be the cause of bad attic smells, and it can also trap other odors. Remove and replace any wet, flat, dirty, or moldy insulation as soon as possible. Fiberglass insulation can sometimes be dried out and reused, but cellulose insulation should be disposed of, since getting it wet eliminates any antifungal or fire-retardant properties. [4]

Preventing Future Attic Smells

Homeowners who have dealt with unpleasant smells in their attic space often want to prevent the situation from happening again. This is understandable, and there are many preventative measures you can take to keep your attic odor-free. A dry, clean attic with no odor or a neutral odor is usually a sign that there are no underlying problems.

Try A Dehumidifier

High humidity levels can encourage the growth of mold and mildew, a common culprit of attic smells. Dehumidifiers are designed to maintain a dry environment. The size of the attic will determine how big a dehumidifier you should consider, but a small one usually does the trick for this kind of space. Some of the best humidifiers available range from approximately $40 to $350. [5]

Regularly Check for Roof Leaks

Many homeowners can go for months without entering their attic space. If you have a roof leak, you may not be aware of it unless you actively check for it. A roof leak can introduce water into the attic, which in turn can cause mold and mildew to grow. Be vigilant for any leaks, especially after heavy rainfall.

Seal Any Entry Points

The types of pests that get into attics can squeeze themselves through very small spaces. Conduct a thorough inspection of your attic space, paying particular attention to any gaps or openings. If you find them, seal these openings with caulk to keep pests out.

When to Call a Professional

Many attic smells can be eliminated on your own, but there may be instances where it’s best to call in a professional. If you have extensive mold growth or black mold, for example, it could be best to outsource the job. Roof leaks and severe water damage may be other reasons to contact a professional.