WHAT'S HIDDEN BEHIND THE CONDENSATION?
The ambient temperature inside the house, the relative humidity level in the air, the surface temperature of the wall or window and the outside temperature are all factors that can influence the phenomenon of condensation. Although window condensation is the most easily observed symptom of a poor humidity management in a house, it is not the only one. The degradation of structural elements and the proliferation of mold are both symptoms that are more difficult to discern. They are also much more harmful for a house and its occupants. Behind the relative humidity level in a house, we can find three main factors :
WHEN DOES THE RELATIVE HUMIDITY LEVEL IN A HOUSE BECOME A PROBLEM?
It is when the warm and humid indoor air comes into contact with the cold surface of a window that the water it contains cools and condenses. The colder the surface, the more the mist will give way to water and condensation or even ice. Also, the higher the relative humidity level in the ambient air is when it comes in contact with the cold surface, the greater the amount of condensation will be. Unfortunately, the phenomenon of condensation does not only occur in windows, but also in every place where whot and humid air comes in contact with a cold surface.
If we disregard the source of this moisture, which can be a problem in itself, the situation becomes problematic when this water, the condensation, comes into contact with putrescible matter. This can happen when the hot and humid indoor air hits a cold surface inside the walls or when dust is present on window sills. In each of these cases, condensation can affect both the integrity of the building and the health of the occupants.
EFFECTS OF CONDENSATION
ON THE BUILDING
Excessive condensation can lead to the deterioration of internal wall elements, which can negatively affect the integrity of the building’s structure. This deterioration may even, in some more extreme cases, endanger the safety of the occupants. It goes without saying that the more a situation deteriorates, the more expensive the corrective work required becomes. Acting quickly will help preserve the value of your home.
EFFECTS OF CONDENSATION
ON THE OCCUPANTS
When condensation problems are allowed to continue for a while without intervention, it is no surprise that the health of the occupants may suffer. According to Health Canada, the presence of mold – whether visible or not – can lead to a wide range of health problems, ranging from respiratory tract irritation and aggravated asthma attacks to chronic fatigue and headaches. Do not let your loved ones suffer.
HOW TO SOLVE A HUMIDITY PROBLEM IN A HOUSE?
Since the sources of excessive relative humidity levels in a house can be multiple, it is essential to identify the source(s) before proposing possible solutions. A relative humidity management specialist is there to conduct a complete analysis of the problem and to suggest ways to remedy the situation effectively, to give you a solution adapted to your particular situation. Once the cause(s) behind your condensation and excessive relative humidity problem are known, the specialized inspector can then present you with realistic and effective solutions, allowing you to invest in the appropriate work and avoid unnecessary costs.