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Metal Roof Condensation Problem

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Guest User
3/14/2010
We have a metal roof on our home that is above a cathedral ceiling. Whenever it snows the roof leaks. When it rains there are no problems. We do have a woodstove in our unfinished basement. Recently a roofing contractor was here and removed insulation from the ridge cap and the bottom edge of the roof line. He said that there needed to be more airflow. Today the roof is leaking again. The same roofer suggested that we put plastic on the basement ceiling to act as a vapor barrier. Do you think this will help? He says our roof is in great shape and that it is not the roof.
Eric Novotny
An informed customer is the Best Customer!
3/14/2010
Where is the leaking occurring?
Guest User
3/14/2010
Our cathedral ceiling has tongue and groove pine and it is leaking in a variety of places. Water is dripping in between the joints.
Eric Novotny
An informed customer is the Best Customer!
3/15/2010
You roof is leaking. Ventilation or a vapor retarder in this case likely has nothing to do with the leak. If it is leaking between the T&G boards and only happens during the snow, I suspect it is getting between the panels and making its way onto and through the T&G. Ventilation is for excess humidity and is not designed to alleviate anything but that. I would have another contractor look at your roof.
Guest User
3/15/2010
Wouldn't the roof leak when it rained if this was the problem? It has never leaked during a rain event...only when it snows.
Eric Novotny
An informed customer is the Best Customer!
3/16/2010
It is likely that the rain is not enough to wash over the seams on the roof whereas the snow, while melting, is getting between the seams. In either case, I would tell you roofer that leaking during snow is not the result of indoor humidity.
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.
3/18/2010
Most such situations are indeed related to leaks and yes snow can cuase leaks that do not occur with rain. However, I have seen some crazy situations with condensation and without knowing or seeing all the details of your home, I would not rule condensation out or in.
Eric Novotny
An informed customer is the Best Customer!
3/18/2010
I agree Tim. I would like to know what the indoor humidity is as well. The fact that the moisture is coming from between the T&G and is "raining" really makes me think this is a snow melt issue. If he has already removed the insulation and has the airflow he wants...why isn't the humidity being exhausted?
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