How to Keep Your Basement Humidity Levels Healthy

Managing basement humidity levels is a unique challenge around Matawan and Monmouth County, where many homes feature basements with cinder blocks or even traditional brick foundation walls. The high humidity levels in the state, combined with the porous nature of these and other construction materials, can make basements vulnerable to moisture and humidity issues. This is especially true in older houses and unfinished basements, where ventilation and insulation may be less effective.

Why You Should Care About Your Basement Humidity

Keeping a low basement humidity level is about more than preventing mold spores and home damage. It’s about protecting your family’s health. Mold allergies can lead to serious health issues. Maintaining the proper humidity level is a crucial mold-preventive measure. By keeping the right basement humidity level, you are taking a proactive step. It will create a healthier home for your loved ones.

• Jump right to Managing High Humidity

What is the Ideal Basement Humidity Level

An ideal basement humidity level typically ranges between 40% and 55%. This range is optimal as it prevents excess humidity that can lead to dampness and condensation, lessens musty odors, and helps prevent mold growth and mildew, which thrive in areas with an excess amount of moisture. However, the ideal level for your basement may vary based on the season and how you use your space. Maintaining this humidity level also ensures that your basement remains a comfortable and healthy space.

Your Basement in Winter
It’s important to avoid setting the basement humidity levels too low because overly dry conditions can also have adverse effects. Humidity levels below 40% can lead to dry air that may irritate your skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Furthermore, low humidity can cause wood to shrink and crack, potentially damaging the structural integrity of your home and wooden furniture.

By choosing the best humidity level within this range, you create a balance that enhances air quality and preserves your health and home.

What is Relative Humidity

If you are like me, you can tell if the humidity is high outside by your hair, the higher the relative humidity, the frizzier the hair. But what does relative humidity mean? Relative humidity measures more than just the presence of moist air; it is a ratio.

The National Weather Service defines relative humidity (RH) as a percentage that measures the amount of water vapor in the air relative to the temperature. In simpler terms, it indicates how close the air is to being saturated with moisture. This level directly impacts how we perceive the comfort level of the air around us. Understanding relative humidity is crucial in managing basement humidity.

How Do I Measure Basement Humidity?

Sometimes, it’s obvious that you have a humid basement. The area may feel damp and have a musty odor. You might even see visible standing water on your basement floor, especially if an area has poor drainage. These are clear signs that you should check the humidity levels. However, in many instances, high basement humidity is difficult to detect, especially in the early stages or in areas that aren’t visible, like basement walls, carpets or wood structures.

Measuring your basement humidity level is a breeze with a hygrometer, a device designed to measure moisture in the air. You can easily find one at your local hardware store, an electronics store, or online. Many modern dehumidifiers even come equipped with built-in hygrometers, making it even more convenient for you to maintain a healthy basement environment.

Managing High Humidity

Maintaining ideal basement humidity is easier than you might think. With a dehumidifier, you can set the relative humidity level to your preference. The machine does the rest, turning on when the basement humidity exceeds your limit. It’s a simple yet effective way to maintain a lower basement humidity and healthy living environment.

By keeping the humidity under control, you can prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which are common in damp areas and can cause health issues and damage your home. A dehumidifier also helps reduce the musty smell that often plagues basements. Additionally, managing humidity can protect your home’s structure and preserve any items stored in the basement.

• More on humidity issues: How to Get Rid of Mold on a Bathroom Ceiling

Where Should I Place the Dehumidifier

It is best to place a dehumidifier near a drain. Dehumidifiers come with a bucket you can empty, but people rarely remember to do this. The best way to keep low-humid environments is to use a hose that drains to a sink or a sump pit. Do keep in mind that for maximum air circulation, place your humidifier away from walls and large furniture. 

Basements Need to be Adequately Ventilated

To maintain property humidity, open your closet doors and laundry rooms to increase airflow to all areas of your basement. Mold spores thrive in dark spaces and stagnant, humid air. Clothes, cardboard, and other porous items kept in closed closets or laundry rooms become breeding grounds for mold since the basement air moisture levels are higher.

On a nice day, open basement windows to help keep your basement adequately ventilated. However, make sure that the windows stay closed when running your dehumidifier or when the outside air has high humidity or higher temperatures.

Moisture Problems

Moisture problems in your home, such as leaking pipes, structural damage, standing water or wet floors, are not just inconveniences. If not addressed promptly, this excess moisture can lead to serious mold issues. To maintain a safe living environment, it’s crucial to fix broken pipes, dry the affected areas, and prevent further moisture accumulation.

Regular inspection and maintenance of your home and basement can help prevent issues and keep old issues from reoccurring.

To waterproof your basement, install a French drain with a sump pump pit. These devices prevent groundwater intrusion and excess moisture.

For more information see: Sump Pump Testing and Tips.

Maintaining your house and basement year-round not only helps with your home’s structural integrity but can also prevent health problems due to mold and other allergens like dust mites, which love humid basements.

If you do find excess water or mold in your basement or elsewhere in your home, don’t panic. Contact the trained water remediation and mold experts at PuroClean of Matawan. We specialize in professional mold removal services, using advanced technology and techniques to ensure a complete and efficient job. We aim to restore your home or business to its original condition, providing peace of mind and a healthy living environment.