Houses can be dry in the winter, but can be overly moist or humid at other times. Read this to learn about common problems caused by excess moisture in houses.

Did you know that people used to measure humidity with hair curls? It’s true. Horace Benedict de Saussure built the first hygrometer using human hair in 1783.

Obviously, things have changed since then. Nowadays, there are various devices that you can use including hygrometers and psychrometers.

What's the ideal indoor humidity level? Around 60%. Too much and it can easily problems.

Want to learn more about the issues caused by excess moisture in houses? If so, you’ve stumbled on the right page. Keep reading to learn more about the topic!

What Causes High Humidity in a House? 

Various things can cause high moisture levels. For example, it might be due to inadequate ventilation. Water can also get into the house from the outside (e.g. leaks, damp ground).

Certain household activities such as washing, shower, or cooking can release water vapor into the air as well.

5 Potential Issues Caused By Excess Moisture in Houses 

High humidity levels can lead to a variety of issues. Here are some things that can happen.

1. Mold Growth

Mold thrives in humid environments. It can grow on drywall, insulation, wood, even paper.

As it is, it can cause a number of health problems such as nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, wheezing, eye irritation, and cough. Certain types can also release harmful toxins into the air.

Depending on the type of mold, you may need to hire a professional mold removal company.

2. It Can Attract Critters

Excess moisture can attract certain critters into your home. Take cockroaches, for example—they prefer living in dark, moist areas.

Silverfish, woodlice, centipedes, and booklice are also attracted to moisture. That’s why one of the reasons why they’re often found in bathrooms, attics, and basements.

3. Electronics Damage 

Moisture can also damage your electronic appliances. The water vapor can find its way into the smallest of gaps, which can cause corrosion.

Not only that, but there’s a chance that it can short circuit as well. For this reason, you never want to leave electronics out in humid areas.

4. Property Damage

Moisture can cause wood to rot, which can weaken the foundation of your home. Wooden floors or furniture may be affected as well.

In addition to that, it can cause paint to chip, crack, or peel. If you live in an older house, this can release lead-rich dust into the air.

5. Health Problems 

Low humidity prevents germs such as bacteria and viruses from spreading. The opposite is also true—that is, they tend to flourish in high moisture environments.

In other words, you’d be more likely to get sick if the humidity is high. So be careful the next time you use a humidifier!

Maintaining the Proper Humidity Level 

And there we have it—five issues caused by excess moisture in houses. If anything, that's why it's so important to monitor humidity levels in your home!

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