We have a large circular staircase that is open from the main floor up to the 2nd floor. At the top of the 2nd floor directly above the stairs, a mysterious darkening has started to show up where each of the drywall screws are.
I am not sure if this is a mold issue where all the warm air is traveling up through this space, and then travelling through the screws to the outside (and condensation is causing screws to rust), or if this might be an issue where dampness is causing problems from up above.
If it were from up above, this area is very difficult to access, and I don't know how I would confirm this.
The 2nd story addition was added to the house 8 years ago, so I think that this might be a problem which has just now started to show itself after a few years of the issue being present.
Any ideas or suggestions?
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You are correct in assuming that this is from condensation. The screws are slightly cooler due to a poor insulation job not providing a thermal break. Cool screws causes more condesnation. only a tiny bit more moisture than surronding SR keeps it damp enough that soot from cigarettes, candles, dust from normal living, etc is attrated to stick there and feed mildew spores.
The spots will probably wash off unless there is rust, The fix involves making sure there is a thermal break, and posssibly sealing with a Kilz type sealer.
Excellence is its own reward!
The spots will probably wash off unless there is rust, The fix involves making sure there is a thermal break, and posssibly sealing with a Kilz type sealer.
Excellence is its own reward!
