Staying on top of your basement’s humidity level is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your home. Whether your basement is finished or unfinished, it’s important to monitor the humidity levels year-round; as your underground space is way more susceptible to humidity and water damage than anywhere else in your home.
Basements typically have poor insulation and little ventilation. Because of this, outdoor temperatures tend to affect basement humidity levels more and can create the perfect breeding ground for molds and mildews if not properly monitored. It’s common for humidity levels to fluctuate slightly, depending on the season. However, the ideal humidity levels year-round should always fall between 30%-50%. Anything above a 60% humidity level will attract unwanted fungi overtime – contaminating your home’s air quality and causing potential damage to anything in its path.
Not only does the outside climate affect humidity levels, but there are other factors to consider when monitoring the moisture in your home. These factors can include, but are not limited to:
– A crack in your home’s foundation
– Clogged or defective gutters and downspouts
– Leaking pipes
– Appliance ventilation
There are many ways to control the moisture in your home, but utilizing a dehumidifier or a home ventilation system with a humidity monitoring system is the most effective way to maintain consistency year-round. Keeping indoor humidity levels manageable is crucial to the longevity of your home, safety of your air and comfort of day-to-day living.
