The idea of controlling moisture may seem far-fetched, but refusing to keep a close watch on the moisture build-up within your home may lead to some disastrous results.
Moisture is all around us, from invisible droplets in the air to the solid ice that sits in the freezer. In fact, the high water content of our world is vital to the preservation of life and vitality, for every live creature on earth. However, it is possible to have too much of a good thing, especially within the confines of a home or business. There are many less-than-appealing effects that are associated with too much moisture. Some of these include:
- The formation of mildews, molds, and fungus, many of which may negatively affect the health and wellness of the respiratory system and skin.
- Pest infestations, including rats and mice, cockroaches, termites, and other destructive creatures.
- Wood rot on furniture, walls, and even structural support beams, costing thousands of dollars worth of repairs.
Although knowing if there is too much moisture in your home can be difficult to discern, there are several obvious signs of moisture accumulation within a structure. Keep your eye out for:
- Strange, multicolored mold spots along walls, windows, and curtains (including white, black, green, and other hues)
- Various signs of pest activity, including sounds in the walls or attic, the appearance of droppings or exoskeletons, and noxious scents without a specific origin
- Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
- Water-damage spots along the roof
- Warped floorboards
If not dealt with immediately, moisture concerns can quickly lead to full-blown structural problems that dramatically affect the homeowner’s quality of life.
How To Reduce Moisture Levels In The Home
Although it can be difficult to get started, it is possible to get a handle on excess moisture within the home. By following these five important steps, homeowners can prevent moisture build-up issues before they occur.
- Use a dehumidifier in areas of the home that experience a chronic buildup of moisture, including the bathroom, kitchen, basement, or laundry room.
- If you own older carpets, consider replacing them with laminate or hardwood flooring. Your carpeting may be allowing small pockets of moisture to exist, creating buildup concerns.
- Be cautious about keeping windows and doors open on days with high humidity. Without tightly fitting window screens, leaving entry points open may also allow destructive types of pests to enter the home.
- Try growing house plants that thrive on additional moisture, like ferns, hostas, and snake plants (often called ‘mother in law’s tongue’).
- Install weatherproof stripping around windows and doors, replacing them as necessary. Caulking and sealing cracks around the interior and exterior of the home can also help to resolve ongoing concerns.
Remember that some moisture control problems will not necessarily be abated by these measures. If you are facing an extreme moisture control problem in your home, it may be time to consult professional moisture control experts.
Get Complete Protection With Havard's Moisture Control Program
Excess moisture in the home is one of the leading causes of domestic mold and mildew growth, leading to health risks for families, friends, and neighbors. In direct response to this, Havard Pest Control’s Moisture Control Plan aims to help homeowners combat the moisture issues that have affected them most. From preventative action to inspections and treatments, Havard offers a wide variety of comprehensive services that include:
- Vapor Barrier Installation
- Crawl Space Venting
- Fungal Treatments
For an evaluation of your home done by licensed and experienced professionals, complete the contact form below or call our main office at (800) 898-0264. Let’s manage your moisture concerns together.