Humidity can be defined as the dampness or amount of moisture in the air. Too much or too little humidity can become a problem. Insufficient humidity can cause breathing problems, increased static electricity in clothes and other things and it can dry nasal passages. Excessive humidity can cause water damage to houses and other properties.



Causes

Humidity increases in certain situations. These situations can be natural or man-made. The cause for increased humidity and the resulting water damage must be identified and rectified immediately. Some of the causes for increased humidity levels include:

* Difference in temperatures. When cold air is brought into contact with hot air or vice-versa, humidity increases.

* Leaky pipes.

* Increased use of water in day-to-day activities like bathing, cleaning and washing.

* Increased use of humidifiers.

* Clogged drains and gutters.

* Poor insulation that allows heat to escape from inside the house during winter.

* Unbalanced ducts.

Indicators

Excessive humidity can cause a number of problems. However, there are many indicators for excessive humidity and the resulting water damage. One has to be on the look-out for these indicators and must take immediate steps to reduce the impact of water damage. Some indicators are:

* Frost or ice inside the windows.

* Wet or damp patches on walls or carpets.

* Mold or mildew accompanied by a strong musty odor.

* Formation of ice dams on the roof.

* Frost or ice on the inner side of attic walls.

* Dampness in basement.

* Leaky water pipes.

* Excessive reading on the water measurement device.

Remedy

Identifying the problem is usually the hardest part. Once the problem is identified, finding a remedy for it should be easy. However, prompt action should be taken to avoid water damage. Some of the ways to control humidity are:

* Reduce the use of humidifiers inside the house.

* Check for leaky pipes. This can be checked by turning off all sinks, faucets, tubs and water-intensive applications like washing machines, dishwashers and refrigerators. If the water-meter is still moving, then it means there is a leak somewhere and this has to be plugged.

* Proper insulation especially during winter. The heat from inside the house must not escape.

* Reducing the use of water in day-to-day activities like cooking, cleaning and bathing. These activities can add to the humidity content inside the house.

* Humidity can be reduced by the use of dehumidifiers, exhaust fans and air-to-air heat exchangers.

* Building materials that are highly resistant to water vapor must be used.

* Care must be taken to ensure that ducts and ventilators, especially in the attic are in good condition.

* It is preferred to avoid chimneys and fire places that end up on the roof. This can cause ice dams during winter in cold places. Water will seep through resulting in increased humidity and water damage.

* Caulking around storm windows before the rainy season will help reduce humidity.

* Water proofing in the foundation of the building must be checked every few years.

* Rain water and ground water must always be kept out of the building. This can be done by using sump pumps and rain gutters.

The above mentioned steps are some of the remedies that can be taken at home. Alternatively, professional help can also be taken to correct the causes of water damage. These steps can go a long way in protecting the house from water damage due to increased humidity.