Humidity

HELP! MY CRAWL SPACE HAS HIGH HUMIDITY

High humidity levels in your crawl space can be a common source for foundational problems. Humidity in your crawl space can lead to an infestation of insects, deteriorating wood due to moisture intake and the growth of mold or mildew. With the high levels of summer rainfall and those sultry July and August temperatures, your crawl space is likely at risk for high humidity and the problems that come with it.

When the humidity levels reach 50% or higher, mold can begin to develop and release toxins within your home. When the air cannot hold any more moisture, you begin to see condensation on the windows and walls which allows toxins to grow.

WHAT CAUSES CRAWL SPACE HUMIDITY?

Standing Water

One of the first problems to look for is bulk water in your crawl space. If there is standing water present, you either have a drainage problem or a plumbing leak that needs to be fixed immediately.

Crawl Space Vents Welcoming Outdoor Air

It’s hard to believe, but when outdoor air comes through those crawl space vents, it actually raises the relative humidity within the crawl space. Relative humidity is how full of water the air is relative to the maximum amount of water it can hold at any given temperature. As you may be aware, warmer air can hold more moisture than colder air, which is why things are so much more humid when it is hot outside. 

Moisture from the Ground

Most common crawl spaces are built on the ground. Since the ground is dirt, it begins to soak up or leave the moisture that enters the crawl space. That moisture then causes serious structural damage by seeping into the foundation walls or exposed wooden beams. Water will always find a path, so if your crawl space is not properly sealed the moisture will get in.