Stepping into your garage should not feel like stepping into a sauna. While that analogy may seem like an overstatement, you could have high levels of humidity in your garage. There are steps you can take to both identify and limit where that garage humidity comes from.
One of the main culprits of humidity in garages, and nearly any space, is the lack of proper ventilation. When moisture becomes trapped, the humidity that results can attract certain pests, or even create an ideal environment for mold growth. Increasing ventilation means decreasing humidity. Not only is better ventilation a great way to reduce moisture, it is also very cost effective.
When possible, keep your garage door or garage windows open for better airflow. An exhaust fan can also pull humid air from your garage, or you can add a portable fan for extra circulation. As long as you are smart with your storage options, good circulation can lead to good ventilation.
Not all garages are built with enough openings for proper ventilation, but you can still reduce humidity levels by adding some other equipment. Using a dehumidifier or air conditioner in the garage will help pull moisture directly from the air. As long as you empty or drain the water, your dehumidifier will continue to work at its best.
Speaking of drainage, check that your garage’s drain and gutters are working the way they should. Rain gutters should direct water away from the garage, and not inside the garage. Leaks in the roof, walls, or under the garage door will also allow water in. The floor drain needs to be unobstructed so water can be removed quickly.
Your vehicle can also track water inside your garage. Rain, snow or ice that drips from your cars bring in a large amount of moisture, making it more important for that garage drain to allow proper flow out of the garage. You can even help the situation by applying a water-resistant coating to your garage floor.
Last, your garage door could cause several ways for humidity to enter the garage. A lack of insulation or an improper seal can allow more moisture to get inside. In either case, addressing the problem as early as possible can save you from any damage that could be caused by high levels of humidity or excess moisture.
Finding the cause of humidity in your garage will make it easier to take the proper steps to reduce that excess moisture. For more information on keeping the humidity levels low in your garage, or to install a brand new garage door, call the experts at Environmental Door today at 616-453-0164.
