At certain times of the year, the humidity in your home can fluctuate enough to affect your family's comfort and health. As if that weren't enough, many insects, which thrive in humid conditions, take advantage of this to settle in. In the fall, condensation may appear at the bottom of windows. In the spring, melting snow and rain can bring moisture through the basement and foundation walls. These are definitely signs that there is excess moisture in the house.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself to prevent the problem from getting worse.
What humidity level is acceptable in a house?
Health Canada recommends a humidity level between 30 and 55%. In the fall and winter, aim for 35 to 45% humidity to limit condensation on windows. In the spring, aim for 40 to 50%, especially if the basement is more humid. A hygrometer or humidity sensor, which are unexpensive, will allow you to monitor the humidity level in each room and in the basement.
What are the consequences of excess humidity?
During the cooler months, higher than normal humidity levels can cause mold growth in the home, particularly on cold surfaces in the fall and winter, and in areas in contact with the ground in the spring. Health repercussions are also a concern: eye, nose and throat irritation, respiratory problems, allergies, and more. Not to mention the permanent damage to the house (wood, drywall, peeling paint) and persistent odours.
How to identify molds?
Here are two key indicators that can help you determine the presence of mold.
- An earthy or musty odour (often in basements or near bathrooms).
- Black, green or whitish stains that appear as spots, streaks or rings on walls, ceilings, window frames, etc. In the spring, pay particular attention to the base of foundation walls and poorly ventilated corners.
What are the moisture-loving insects that can infest a house?
Centipedes and silverfish are small creatures that thrive in humid environments. If conditions are favourable, they will quickly make their home in your house. To avoid potential damage to your belongings and property, it is recommended to act promptly.
How to prevent and how to react in case of a problem?
To limit humidity and the insects it attracts, combine maintenance and water management according to the season.
- Ventilate properly: run the range hood when cooking (also cover pots and pans) and bathroom fan when showering (let it run for 20 to 30 minutes afterwards). Also, ensure your air exchange system is well-maintained.
- Reduce condensation: clear hot air vents, leave space behind furniture placed against exterior walls, and wipe away persistent condensation from windows.
- Aerate wisely: open windows when the outside air is drier; close them during rain or periods of high humidity.
- Manage outdoor water effectively: clean gutters and downspouts, direct water away from the foundation, and check the sump pump and French drain as needed.
- Dry wet materials (carpets, cardboard) immediately and dehumidify the basement after heavy rain or a rapid thaw.
- Clean the basement, kitchen and bathrooms regularly.
- Outside, remove fallen leaves and debris near the foundation, and trim dense branches against the house to help exterior walls dry.
- If you see insects or are unsure, use a registered crawling insect control product like those in the CRAWL OUT line, following the directions.
How to maintain a healthy humidity level in the house?
Place a hygrometer on each floor and in the basement to monitor the humidity level, run the dehumidifier as needed, put coarse salt in the cupboards, ventilate the house daily and avoid hanging laundry indoors. If the problem persists, don't hesitate to call in a professional. With a few good habits in the fall and spring, you can maintain healthy humidity levels, prevent mold and improve the comfort of your home.
