April showers bring May flowers, so with all the rain that’s coming down and the high humidity levels of New Jersey summers, will your home be safe from excess moisture?
In addition to simply being unpleasant, too much moisture can cause serious issues inside your home. With high humidity, the potential for mold growth increases, which not only weakens the structural integrity of your home but also harms the health of you and your family. Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) from moisture-related problems is all-too-prevalent but can be resolved with help from a professional.
Avoiding Excess Moisture & Condensation
A home’s building envelope has many gaps and cracks that allow air in and out. Since water vapor is carried through the air, this means that moisture can also enter at will. Normal activities at home like cooking, showering and bathing, and simply breathing also produce moisture that gets added to the air.
With high indoor humidity and a home that isn’t properly weatherized, you may start to notice condensation. When warm, moist air comes into contact with a cool surface at the dew point temperature, condensation forms. This standing water then provides a perfect environment for mildew and mold to thrive.
Areas Prone to Mold in the Home
Mildew and mold can begin to grow anywhere there’s a damp environment with an organic food source. Common areas that are the most susceptible to mold growth in the home include:
Basements
Walls
Windows
Carpets
HVAC systems
High-Performance Air Sealing & Insulation
With a properly air sealed and insulated home, you’ll avoid those cold walls and other spots that allow condensation to form. This will reduce the possibility of mold, which is extremely harmful to your home’s indoor air quality. Although these weatherization solutions are excellent ways to prevent moisture-related IAQ problems in most homes, if your home is particularly humid, it will be beneficial to seek additional mechanical ventilation or dehumidification options. By first controlling moisture at its source, preventing condensation, and then continuing to lower levels of excess moisture, your home will be healthier for you and your family.
Allied: Your NJ Home Efficiency, Comfort & Health Partners
Improving your home’s indoor air quality will make your home a safe and healthy place. From comprehensive air sealing and insulation to ventilation solutions, the professional team at Allied Experts can help you breathe easier.