Question:

Having spent my first winter in my new home it has become apparent that the lack of a fan in the main bathroom is going to be a problem. The window in particular have developed a serious mold problem. How difficult and how expensive is it to install a fan now?

Answer:

Installing a fan is not a difficult task but it does require a little know how in order to prevent problems later. It is easier to install if the attic is above the bathroom as opposed to another floor of the house but both locations are possible. You will need to supply electricity to the fan and a switch to operate it so electrical know how is important.
To install the fan, a hole is cut into the ceiling in a location where the housing for the fan can be fit in between the joists or trusses of the house. The housing is secured in that location. A vent pipe is then routed from the housing to a location where the exhaust air will be vented outside. It is important to layout an "S" in the path of the pipe to help stop back drafts or condensation from running back into the fan and the bathroom. The fan should be isolated from the insulation in the attic with a protective cover and insulation be over top of that to avoid condensation problems in the housing.
Hope that helps.

Bob
Bathrooms First

Answered By: Bob Steele

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