Household Humidity & Condensation Damage

Although humidity is almost always present in the air, too much humidity creates condensation. The long-term presence of condensation can cause serious damage to houses. For comfort in Winter months, it is sometimes necessary to add moisture with an automatic humidifier. But in the Summer, it is especially important to reduce excessive humidity levels, to avoid condensation damage throughout the home. While dehumidifiers and air conditioners can be effective, neither will address the root cause of the problem - too much moisture in the house.

How Condensation Occurs
Warm air has a natural capacity to hold more moisture, or humidity, than cold air. So, if warm, moist air contacts something cooler, its temperature will drop, and it may no longer have the capacity to contain its own humidity. As a result, excess humidity in the air will turn into water droplets, or condensation. That is why moisture may form on windows, or even walls or ceilings, since they are typically cooler than the moist air. The greater the temperature difference, the more likely condensation will form.

Signs of Condensation Damage
· Droplets on windows, pipes and fixtures
· Damp walls
· Flaking paint, pealing wallpaper
· Soft or crumpling plaster
· Mould or mildew
· Musty fabrics
· Discoloured woodwork

Common Causes of Household Humidity
· Cooking and boiling water
· Showers and hot baths
· Washing dishes or clothes
· Clothes dryer (unvented)
· Auto-defrost fridge and freezer
· Aquariums
· Large plants

Hidden Condensation Damage
Not all condensation is openly visible. Often is can be hidden, causing deterioration of your homes walls, insulation and exterior structure. In extreme cases, when this moisture is allowed to continually form in your attic, it can cause your roof to rot from within. It is important to realize that insulation alone cannot prevent this. While insulation will help reduce or slow the loss of warm air rising from your living space, it can't stop it from eventually contacting a colder surface, where condensation can take place.

How To Reduce Humidity Problems
All homes should have a complete vapour barrier system. When properly installed, an intact vapour barrier is the ideal way to prevent moisture from forming in cavities and attic spaces. In addition, all wall cracks and gaps should be caulked, to help keep moisture from traveling to less accessible areas. Of course, the most proactive solution is to remove the humid air causing the problem, wit h proper venting in kitchens, bathrooms and attics.

In some cases, special materials and treatments may be necessary to help keep natural, outside moisture from entering your home, but you should consult with a professional before deciding on the right course of action. The first step to take is carefully monitoring and adjusting of household humidity levels, to make your home and its contents more comfortable, and in better, more functional condition.

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