The Significance of Moisture Management in Your Dwelling
Homes provide comfort and security, but they are also exposed to various factors from both inside and outside, such as cooking, bathing, and laundry, all of which can contribute to elevated indoor humidity levels.
What is the ideal humidity range for homes? Generally, indoor humidity should be kept between 30% and 60%. Staying within this range is crucial to maintaining both the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of your home.
What issues can arise from too much moisture? Excess moisture encourages the growth of mold and mildew, which thrive in damp environments. If left unchecked, these can lead to severe damage to your walls, flooring, and furniture.
In addition, high humidity levels can lead to health problems like respiratory issues, allergies, and other concerns. It can also attract unwanted pests such as cockroaches and dust mites, which further exacerbates health risks.
How can we control or lower indoor humidity? Addressing moisture sources is essential. This can include fixing leaky roofs or pipes and tackling condensation. Solutions like installing a crawl space vapor barrier can effectively block moisture from seeping into areas like basements, crawl spaces, or attics, helping to keep humidity levels in check throughout the home.
Maintaining the proper indoor humidity is key to protecting the structure, health, and comfort of your living spaces. For more tips on moisture control, refer to the accompanying infographic.