How to Control Humidity in Your Home
To keep problem areas well-ventilated, there are several things you can try.On humid days, you should keep windows closed, and open them when it’s dry outside.For windowless rooms that tend to get damp, like a closet or utility room, a vent or an exhaust fan can be installed. A louvered door could also be installed to help promote air circulation. If your problem is severe, you may have to resort to using a dehumidifier in the areas of your home with the most problems, like the bathroom or utility room.
Dryers can be the biggest culprit for many moisture problems in the house. Make sure that the air is being vented to the outside properly, without any cracks or leaks in the ventilation system. Basements and utility rooms are often affected by excess humidity from dryers.
Moist , warm air created by cooking can cause damage as well. Kitchen walls and ceilings can be damage if you don’t have good ventilation . A hood vent can be installed above the cooking area to alleviate most of the problem.The moist air can also penetrate into attics, rotting wood and saturating insulation. Polyethylene sheeting can be placed under insulation, or the ceiling can be painted with with vapor barrier paint.
You can protect your home from underneath as well. Crawl spaces can be covered with polyethylene, which will keep the moisture that rises from the ground and into the house, from entering and causing damage. Use 6-mil polyethylene for the best results.
Bathrooms can be a major problem to deal with when it comes to excess humidity and moisture. An exhaust fan should be installed, especially if the room doesn’t have a window. If there is a window, the window can be opened after bathing or showering to let out excess moisture.
Humidity can also penetrate walls, which can peel exterior paint or damage wood. A vapor-resistant primer can be used under the the finish coat to prevent damage. Tiny vents can also be installed in exterior siding for moisture to escape from.
You can and should use a combination of these methods to control excess humidity in and outside your home. Prevention should be your first line of defense when battling moisture damage.
