Getting Rid of Tin Roof Condensation

Metal roof condensation, especially with a tin roof, can cause serious problems when the metal sweats or rainwater collects under the tin panels. When this happens the tin roof can rust and even warp. If the tin roof sits on top of another material, such as wood, then you can get a case of wood rot. All of these situations lead to complete roof replacement, which costs a lot of money. The following article will show you some ways that you can get rid of condensation under a tin roof.

Step 1 - Remove the Tin Roof

A tin roof is typically found on barns and more so on sheds. This means that there is little chance of running into an electrical current that is not properly shielded from the elements. When your roof is already in place there is, unfortunately, no direct or easy solution to the problem of condensation. If you get to it in time your tin roof should still be viable for you to use. Climb on the ladder and use your hammer and crowbar to remove the tin roof from the wooden frame.

Step 2 - Plywood Roofing

Measure the roof in two sections. Depending on the size of the roof you may have to piece plywood together. The goal is to use as many full sheets of plywood as possible. Hoist the plywood on top of the structure and line it up. Use the nail gain to affix the plywood onto the frame of the structure. Add as many plywood sheets as possible in order to cover the entire roof.

Step 3 - Add the Plastic Sheeting

The tin roof creates a vapor barrier that blocks water vapor from getting through it. When warm water vapor touches the tin roof on a chilly night the warm water is condensed by the cold. You need a barrier between these materials. Plastic sheeting is one such barrier. There is no clean way to attach the plastic. Drape the plastic sheeting over the roof and nail it in place two inches from the edges. Use the razor knife to cut off the excess plastic sheeting.

Step 4 - Replace the Tin Roof

Now that the barrier is affixed you can replace the tin roof. Put it back exactly how it was previously. Use tin nails to hammer it to the frame and new plywood roofing material.

Step 5 - The Inside of the Structure

The temperature difference inside the building creates that warm air that interacts with the cool rain. You can create a true weather barrier by first filling in the space between the studs with fiberglass. Next, drape the plastic sheeting over the walls and hammer them in place through the studs. Continue until the inner walls are covered. Finally, measure and cut sheets of plywood and affix in place over the plastic sheeting. This creates a true barrier that will reduce the risk of tin roof condensation.