Humidity is the amount of water vapour in the air compared to what the air can “hold” at that temperature. When the air can’t “hold” all the moisture, then it condenses as dew. Having too high or low levels of humidity in your home can cause discomfort and damage to your home. Excessive humidity contributes to the growth of mould and other microbials that can affect your health. Sources of water vapour that contribute to humidity include bathing, cooking, laundering your clothes, and plants.
Higher than normal levels of humidity in certain areas of your home contribute to higher levels of bed bugs and biological contaminants (e.g. mould, dust, etc.).
How does it affect you?
Undesirable levels of humidity in your home can cause discomfort for you and your family. However, high levels of humidity can cause mould, leading to possible long-term damage in your home if not treated properly, including structural damage. This can create an old, stale, musty or earthy smell in the air of your home.
What should you do?
Having a well ventilated home can prevent high levels of humidity, reducing your chance of physical damage.
Do you notice a mouldy smell in the air when entering your home? Specifically in the basement? Since humidity leads to mould, it is possible for there to be smells and damage to your home. Checking your basement and damp places in your home, as well as exterior grading and downspouts, can save you issues further down the line. Catching the issue early can prevent costly repairs.
Is there condensation on the windows in your home? Condensation suggests that there is excessive moisture, poor air circulation or a problem with your windows. Determining the issue can help you decide if you need to take corrective action.
Other things you can do to help control the moisture in your home:
- Immediately dry any water leaks or spills that occur indoors.
- Dry any condensation that may collect on windows, walls and pipes.
- Clean and repair roof gutters on a regular basis.
- Ensure the ground slopes away from your home to avoid water from entering or collecting around the foundation.
- Keep air conditioning drip pans clean and drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly.