Mold in attics is a much greater/common problem than people think. This winter you should inspect for moisture.

Matthew Fournier 12/15/22

Condensation in attics can be a serious problem, especially when poor insulation and ventilation exist. This type of moisture buildup can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of health problems and damage to the structure of your home. In order to understand why condensation occurs in attics when poor insulation and ventilation exist, it's important to understand how moisture behaves in these conditions.

When warm, moist air comes into contact with a cool surface, such as the roof or walls of an attic, it will begin to condense. This is because the warm air loses its ability to hold onto moisture when it comes into contact with the cooler surface. As a result, the moisture in the air will begin to collect on the surface, forming droplets of water.


Poor insulation in the attic can exacerbate this problem by allowing the warm, moist air to easily come into contact with the cooler surfaces of the roof and walls. When the attic is not properly insulated, warm air from inside the home can easily rise up into the attic, where it will come into contact with the cooler surfaces and condense.


Similarly, poor ventilation in the attic can also contribute to the problem of condensation. When the attic is not properly ventilated, the warm, moist air from inside the home has nowhere to go, and will instead become trapped in the attic. This will cause the air in the attic to become increasingly warm and moist, increasing the likelihood of condensation on the surfaces of the roof and walls.



As mentioned earlier, when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cool surface in the attic, it will begin to condense and form droplets of water on the surface. These droplets of water can collect in various places in the attic, such as on the roof and walls, in corners and crevices, or on items that are stored in the attic. Over time, this moisture buildup can create the perfect conditions for mold and mildew to grow.

Mold and mildew are types of fungi that thrive in moist environments. When they come into contact with a source of moisture, such as the water droplets that form on the surfaces of the attic, they will begin to grow and spread. Mold and mildew can grow quickly, and can often spread throughout the attic within a matter of days or weeks.

Once mold and mildew have taken hold in the attic, they can be difficult to remove. Not only do they have a musty, unpleasant smell, but they can also cause a variety of health problems for those who are exposed to them. Mold and mildew can cause respiratory issues, such as allergies and asthma, and can also cause skin irritation and other allergic reactions.

In addition to the health risks posed by mold and mildew, they can also cause significant damage to the structure of your home. Over time, mold and mildew can eat away at the surfaces on which they grow, causing them to become weak and brittle. This can lead to serious damage to the roof and walls of your home, and can even cause the attic to become structurally unstable.

To prevent the growth of mold and mildew in the attic, it's important to address the underlying problem of condensation. By ensuring that the attic is properly insulated and well-ventilated, you can prevent moisture from building up on the surfaces of the roof and walls, and reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth. Additionally, it's important to regularly check the attic for signs of moisture and to address any moisture problems as soon as they are detected. By taking these steps, you can help to prevent the damaging effects of mold and mildew in your attic and protect the health and safety of your family.

Blower Door Test

By Mattra Inc • April 3, 2025
Is Your Home Under-Insulated and Leaky? A Blower Door Test Can Tell You Many Maine homeowners don’t realize just how much money is flying out the window—literally. Drafty rooms, cold floors, and rising energy bills are often signs of poor insulation and hidden air leaks. But how do you know where your home is losing heat? A blower door test is one of the most effective tools to identify under-insulated and under-sealed areas in your home. Let’s explore how it works, why it matters, and what steps you can take to improve your home’s energy efficiency—and unlock valuable Efficiency Maine rebates in the process. What Is a Blower Door Test? A blower door test uses a powerful fan, mounted into an exterior doorway, to pull air out of your home and lower the indoor air pressure. This forces outside air in through any cracks or gaps in the building envelope. The result? A clear picture of where your home is leaking air. This test measures air changes per hour (ACH) and identifies weak points in insulation and air sealing. It helps assess how well your home keeps conditioned air in—and the outdoor elements out. An experienced technician can use this data to recommend targeted upgrades, saving you money on heating and cooling costs. How to Pass a Blower Door Test: Key Air Sealing Tips Passing a blower door test doesn’t require a full renovation—it’s about sealing the right places effectively. Here are the most common areas to focus on: 🪟 Windows and Doors Install weather stripping Use caulk or foam sealant around frames Check for gaps in thresholds or broken seals 🧱 Attics and Ceilings Seal around light fixtures and access hatches Insulate attic floors and rafters Use foam board or spray foam in hard-to-reach corners 🧰 Basements and Crawlspaces Seal rim joists with spray foam Insulate basement walls and floors Cover and seal crawlspace vents and doors 🧹 Floors and Walls Fill gaps around pipes, wiring, and ducts Seal baseboards and floor edges Add insulation in wall cavities if accessible By addressing these common problem areas, you can drastically improve your blower door test results and the overall comfort of your home. Why Blower Door Testing Matters Blower door tests aren’t just for code compliance—they’re a diagnostic tool to understand your home's efficiency. When performed by professionals, these tests: Reveal hidden air leaks Provide data for insulation and air sealing improvements Help reduce energy bills Improve indoor comfort and air quality Support home energy audit documentation During the test, technicians record the building's air leakage rate using calibrated gauges. Smoke pencils or infrared cameras may also be used to visualize the leaks. This ensures your energy upgrade dollars go exactly where they’re needed most. Mattra Handles It All—Testing, Air Sealing, and Insulation Ready to make your home more energy-efficient? Mattra offers professional blower door tests. At Mattra, we don’t just tell you what needs to be fixed—we do the work for you. As a licensed insulation and air sealing contractor, we can take your blower door test results and turn them into real improvements. From sealing drafty basements to upgrading attic insulation, our team handles every step in-house. That means fewer headaches for you—and faster results. Plus, we’ll help you navigate the Efficiency Maine rebate process , so you can maximize your savings without lifting a finger. One test. One team. One solution. Let Mattra make your home warmer, tighter, and more energy efficient—starting today.

5 Summer Preparation Tips

By Mattra Inc • June 19, 2024
Introduction As summer approaches in Maine, homeowners often face challenges with under-insulated homes, skyrocketing air conditioning costs, and the lurking threat of mold growth. These issues not only impact comfort but can also lead to increased energy bills and health risks. Ensuring your home is properly prepped for the warmer months is essential for maintaining a comfortable, safe, and energy-efficient living environment. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore effective strategies for insulating your home, understanding and mitigating the dangers of mold growth, and taking advantage of financial incentives to make your home summer-ready. How to Properly Insulate Your Home Insulating your home is one of the most effective ways to improve energy efficiency and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature during the hot summer months. Proper insulation not only reduces cooling costs but also helps to keep your home warm during the harsh Maine winters. Understanding Insulation Types There are several types of insulation available, each with its own advantages. The most common types include: Fiberglass Insulation: Made from fine glass fibers, this type is commonly used in attics and wall cavities. Spray Foam Insulation: A versatile option that expands to fill gaps, providing excellent air sealing and insulation. Blown-In Insulation: Often made of cellulose or fiberglass, it is blown into place using special equipment, ideal for adding insulation to existing structures. Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation Spray foam insulation is particularly effective for Maine homes due to its superior insulating properties and air sealing capabilities. It helps to prevent air leaks, reduces energy bills, and provides a barrier against moisture, which is crucial in preventing mold growth. Additionally, spray foam can reach areas that other insulation types might miss, ensuring comprehensive coverage. DIY Tips for Home Insulation For those who prefer a hands-on approach, here are some DIY tips to improve your home’s insulation : Seal Gaps and Cracks: Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps around windows, doors, and other openings. Add Insulation to the Attic: Consider using blown-in insulation for an easy and effective way to enhance your attic’s insulation. Install Reflective Barriers: Reflective barriers can be added to attic spaces to reduce heat gain. Insulate Pipes and Ducts: Wrap pipes and ducts with insulation to prevent heat loss and improve efficiency. While these DIY methods can be effective, professional installation of spray foam or blown-in insulation offers a more thorough and long-lasting solution. Professional installers have the expertise and equipment to ensure your home is optimally insulated. The Dangers of Mold Growth and Its Effects on You and Your Pets Mold growth is a common problem in many homes, particularly in regions with high humidity like Maine. Mold not only damages property but also poses significant health risks to both humans and pets. How Mold Grows in Maine Homes Mold thrives in damp, humid environments, making under-insulated and poorly ventilated areas in your home prime targets. Common areas for mold growth include basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and attics. During the summer, increased humidity levels can exacerbate mold problems, especially if there is poor air circulation or water leaks. Health Risks for Humans Exposure to mold can cause a variety of health issues, including: Allergic Reactions: Symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rashes. Respiratory Problems: Mold spores can cause asthma attacks and other respiratory issues, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions. Toxic Effects: Certain types of mold, such as black mold, can produce mycotoxins that are harmful when inhaled, potentially leading to severe health problems. Health Risks for Pets Pets are also susceptible to mold-related health issues. Symptoms in pets can include: Respiratory Distress: Coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Skin Irritations: Itchy skin, rashes, and fur loss. Digestive Problems: Vomiting and diarrhea if mold-contaminated food or water is ingested. Preventing mold growth is crucial for maintaining a healthy home environment. Ensuring proper insulation, ventilation, and addressing any water leaks promptly can help mitigate the risk of mold. Take Advantage of a Free Inspection and Estimate One of the best steps you can take to prep your home for summer is to get a professional inspection and estimate. This not only helps identify areas that need improvement but also ensures you are making informed decisions about home upgrades. Efficiency Maine’s Rebate Program Maine homeowners have access to fantastic financial incentives through Efficiency Maine’s rebate program . This program offers: Minimum 40% Rebate: On qualifying home insulation projects. Up to 100% Rebate: For income-eligible households, making energy efficiency upgrades accessible to everyone. By taking advantage of these rebates, you can significantly reduce the cost of insulating your home, making it more affordable to improve comfort and energy efficiency. Your Estimate and Rebate Ready to make your home summer-ready? Don’t wait! Fill out our Get Started form or call us at (207) 777-6020 to schedule your free inspection and estimate today. With Efficiency Maine’s rebates, you can save big while ensuring your home is comfortable, energy-efficient, and mold-free.