What Should My Basement Humidity Level Be?

Does your basement feel warmer and musty during the Winter? Maybe it’s time to check the humidity levels of your home.

Humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air. When the air has absorbed all the moisture that it can, we say that humidity is at 100%. When the humidity level is at say half of that, it is defined as being at 50%. In other words, measures of humidity are relative, which is why we speak of RH or relative humidity.

The Effect of Seasons

Everything expands as it gets warmer, and that applies to the air itself. As a consequence, it absorbs more moisture when the ambient temperature is warmer. As homeowners in the city, it is important for us to measure our humidity levels especially in the winter when the heating is turned up in our basements and windows and doors are tightly closed.

You can track humidity by purchasing a mechanical or electronic hygrometer that records the RH, although you do need to allow the instrument to settle for twelve hours first. Note that the same absolute moisture-level will produce a different relative reading at different ambient temperatures.

The Human Factor

Humans have a habit of changing their environment everywhere we go (and that includes our homes). Almost everything we do in our home involves the use of energy. The energy that is released does in fact warm the air. Warm air absorbs more moisture, which as a result increases the humidity level. We release moisture into the air every time we take a bath or shower, wash dishes or do the laundry.

The Right Humidity

Our bodies require a level of humidity for health. When it’s too high we may develop respiratory problems because of mould spores drifting through the air. By contrast, if the RH is too low we get scratchy throats and noses and chapped skin and lips. These are Mother Nature’s natural hygrometers we need to listen to.

After you’ve purchased a mechanical or electronic hygrometer, you can assess humidity more accurately, although do remember those hygrometer readings are relative to ambient temperatures. When your home is nice and snug in winter, it should range between 30 and 50 percent. However, when the outside temperature drops to -10c / 14F, you should aim for 30.

When Humidity’s Too High

You can use humidifiers and dehumidifiers to control relative humidity selectively. However, you can also influence things by venting clothes-dryers, opening doors and windows daily, and taking cooler showers and baths. As you bring your humidity levels down you’ll also have less mould. And that should make your family healthier, happier and more relaxed.

About Nusite

Nusite Contractors Ltd. has been proudly serving GTA homeowners for over 30 years! We are a family business and take pride in customer service and professional work. You can contact us here to schedule a free consultation and written estimate! We would be happy to help! #NusiteContractorsLtd. #Waterproofing #GTAWaterproofing #FoundationRepair #ConcreteRepair #ConcreteContractors #FoundationSpecialist #HomeownerTips