Humidity in the Home: What Are the Risks to be feared?
Water leaks, high concentration of water vapor in the ambient air, capillaries due to poor foundations, infiltration, the causes of the presence of humidity in a house are numerous. Whether it comes from inside your home or from the outside, it has repercussions on your comfort and the appearance of your home, but also a more serious impact if the problem is not resolved quickly.
Even if you wanted to, it would be hard to ignore a moisture problem in your home. Indeed, when water infiltration spreads, the signs are obvious, worsen and become more and more unsightly. If it were limited to visible marks it would almost be a relief, but did you know that a damp home can also have serious consequences, especially on your health?
How to know the humidity in a house?
Usually, it is accepted that the ideal humidity level in a house should be between 40% and 60%. To measure the hygrometry in a house, that is to say, the amount of humidity in the atmosphere, an essential tool is required: the hygrometer. It makes it possible to constantly observe what is the relative quantity of water present in the atmosphere and to be able to intervene accordingly.
There are many signs of a damp house. There is thus a peeling paint or peeling wallpaper. It is also possible to perceive droplets that form on the windows, a musty odor in wardrobes and cupboards, damp cloths, or even mold stains and halos that appear on the walls.
What are the risks in a Home with Humidity?
The dangers of dampness in a home are manifested on many levels. But, the main thing will be first of all the insalubrity which will gradually set in. When the problem is not quickly taken care of, the phenomenon grows and the risks multiply.
When humidity takes possession of your home, it is a real issue for your safety. Indeed, it will weaken the architecture and the wooden structures which will warp. This can lead to the development of dry rot, a voracious fungus that will destroy buildings, especially frames and stairs.
The partitions will be damaged and the traces of mold and fungus will colonize your walls, baseboards and go up to the ceiling. The proliferation of humidity in the building will lead to the appearance of insects and cockroaches. Moisture in the air is also a problem for your home appliances which are at risk of rusting and becoming faulty.
The risks to your health
By being exposed to molds and fungi, you are susceptible to developing respiratory infections or eye diseases. Some people suffer from chronic coughs, muscle pain, fever, migraines, persistent fatigue, allergies, and even nasal bleeding.
A humid environment also tends to weaken the immune system, especially in children and the elderly. In addition, the risks of humidity in a home can take serious proportions with the risk of liver or lung cancer caused by aflatoxin, a toxic mold.
