The winter period is the coldest season of the year. It could be an excellent season for staying and enjoying indoor games with friends and family. It could also be a great time to make snowmen and play winter games like skiing.
Beyond the bonds created during this period, it also greatly affects the humidity level of your home. Your house humidity could be too high or too low, depending on the quality and quantity of air in the home.
However, because it’s winter, the humidity level is likely to be high due to the season’s drier air. During winter, you can expect the temperature of your house to drop and the moisture level to decrease. Less moisture in the air equals an increase in dry air. However, if the basement already traps warm, humid air during the summer, you have a basement with a high humidity level.
Signs of High Humidity in Your Basement
Some of the signs to watch out for include:
- Windows frost
One of the very first signs of low or high humidity in the basement is the presence of air frost on the window planes or any glass in the basement. Due to the dry air, the humid warm moisture available will form frost on the window. When you notice that, you know that your basement has high humidity.
- The presence of molds
Most often, the frost on the windows will be a safe place for mold to thrive if it’s not noticed and cleaned. The mold doesn’t just make the basement air feel damp; it also smells and could be a significant turn-off.
- Increased number of insects
If you notice a sudden increase or influx of insects in your house, you should check your basement immediately. The high humidity level could be a direct cause.
What is the Ideal Basement Humidity Level during Winter?
The ideal basement humidity level shouldn’t be too high or too low. For instance, When the humidity level is too high during winter, it could lead to health challenges like constant sneezing, sore throat, dry skin, chapped lips, etc.
The ideal basement humidity level is recommended to be between 30 and 50 % during summer and between 25 and 40% during winter.
Effect of High Humidity in the Basement.
One of the main effects high humidity in your basement could cause is the threat of your house crashing. The high humidity could lead to a crack in the foundation of your house. This could reduce the structural integrity and lifespan of your house. It will also devalue the property if it’s left unattended.
How to Maintain the right Humidity Level for your Basement
To maintain the proper humidity level in your basement, you need a humidistat. With a humidistat, you will know when the humidity level is too high or too low. When you notice the humidity is too high, you know it’s time to increase the quality of air moisture in the basement. You can do this by getting a dehumidifier or/and air conditioner.
A dehumidifier works best for the whole house by making sure the humid air doesn’t get to the basement during the summer. If you keep the excess warmer air out of the basement during summer, you won’t have high humidity during winter.
Contact B-Dry Today
One of the best ways to maintain the right humid level for your house, especially the basement, is to use a dehumidifier. Fortunately, B-Dry provides excellent waterproofing and dehumidifier services. Be sure to give us a call or fill out our online contact form to learn more about our waterproofing services!
