Living in a humid climate can present some challenges for homeowners. Wood can swell, doors might stick and paint may peel if the humidity levels are left unchecked for too long. Too much humidity can cause mold or bacteria growth that can trigger allergy symptoms like a stuffy nose or other, more serious, respiratory problems. From the risk of slipping on damp floors to the health risks from mold and dust mites, moisture can wreak havoc on your home and family’s health. While you can’t change the climate, there are a few things that can be done to lessen the harmful effects of humidity in your home.
Flooring
Anyone who has ever slipped on a slick garage floor during a rainy day should investigate garage flooring chicago. Untreated concrete tends to have sweating slab syndrome which can pose a safety risk for slipping or prevent vehicles from stopping properly due to lack of traction. Treating concrete flooring with the appropriate coating will not only provide a safety factor against falls but will also protect it from mold and mildew growth. A bonus is that the appropriate coating can also make your floors look beautiful, resist stains and clean up more easily.
Air Conditioning
The optimal level of humidity in a home should be 30%-50%. Even with air conditioning, it may be hard to stay cool in humid, hot weather, as sweat doesn’t evaporate because the water content in the air is too high. Your air conditioning unit can help to reduce the humidity levels if kept between 68 and 72 degrees. Some systems may have a dry setting that can also be used to help keep the moisture levels in check.
Plants
Houseplants are not only beautiful but can help clean and dehumidify the air in your home. Desert dwellers like aloe and yucca actually take water from the air. Air plants like tillandsia take water and nutrients from the atmosphere around them, as well. Common plants like peace lilies, Boston ferns and English ivy reduce humidity and also absorb toxic substances like formaldehyde, acetone and benzene to keep your family breathing clean and safe air. For maximum dehumidifying effects, hang ferns or ivy closer to the ceiling.
Weatherstripping
An often overlooked remedy for excess humidity in the home is the seals on doors and windows that can let dry air out and moist air in. If you can feel drafts near either your doors or windows, you need weatherstripping.