Moisture
 

 

Excess moisture in a home can weaken a home's structure, damage personal belongings, cause unpleasant odors and reduce air quality.  A high level of moisture can cause mold growth which can lead to bacteria, cockroaches and dust mites.  This excess moisture can also cause the rotting of a home's foundation and be the origin of asthma and allergies in the home's inhabitants.  

 

Moisture can originate from a number of outdoor sources as well as from the activities of those living in the home.

Some outdoor sources include:

  • Foundation drainage

  • Below-grade walls

  • Blocked exterior air circulation


Indoor sources include:

  • Domestic activities

  • Appliances

  • House plants

  • Air conditioners

  • Damp basements

Excess moisture within a home is not a hard problem to diagnose.  There are numerous symptoms that can indicate that there is a high level of moisture within your home.  Included:

  • Odors: higher humidity leads to the increase in indoor smells.  Musty odors can be caused by mold, mildew and rot

  • Frost and air on cold surfaces

  • Damp feeling within the home

  • Surface discoloration, staining and texture changing

  • Deformed wood surfaces and wood decay

  • Sweating pipes

  • Peeling paint

  • Chipping concrete

  • Increased indoor humidity

  • Rust


What causes condensation on windows?

Whenever there is excess humidity in a home, it manifests itself in the form of condensation on the coldest area of a wall, which is normally the windows.  The warmer the air, the more moisture it will retain, so when air in your home comes in contact with the colder glass surface, it is subsequently cooled and moisture is released in the form of condensation on the glass.

Do windows cause condensation?

No, condensation on windows is not the fault of the window.  However, by replacing drafty windows and doors or installing a new roof or siding, you are reducing air flow in your home and making it tighter.  Tighter homes actually retain more humidity.

Can I reduce the condensation on my windows?

Yea.  In order to reduce condensation, humidity must be controlled and air movement must be generated.  As the exterior temperature drops, the humidity level needs to decrease if condensation is to be controlled. 

What steps can I take to reduce the humidity in my home?

The two main things you can do are to increase ventilation and control sources of moisture. 

It is important to diagnose excess moisture problems early to prevent further damage. 
The
E-Z Breathe ventilation system can help reduce the level of indoor moisture by removing damp, contaminated air.
 The result is drier, cleaner and healthier air that will reduce the risk of home damage and health issues.

 

Questions?  Want to learn more?  Call us at 1-913-226-6326 or e-mail ezbreathe@rbekc.com

   

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Red Bridge Enterprises
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