Fighting Moisture and Humidity in Your Garage

 Posted on July 27, 2016 in Uncategorized

Have you noticed excess moisture and humidity in your garage? People often face humidity problems in their bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements, but garages are also easily susceptible to invasive water and the troubles it can bring with it. Excess humidity and condensation can damage your garage's structure, its flooring and finishes, and can potentially harm anything stored within your garage as well. The moisture and heat stored in your garage can potentially seep into your home, causing increased temperatures and humidity within your house.

Moisture problems can also lead to mildew and mold, putting your family's health in jeopardy. Additionally, wet areas are ideal for dust mites, tiny creatures who multiply in humid areas and are a common cause of allergies. While garages are easily susceptible to water, there are fortunately many different methods of removing any excess condensation and humidity you notice in your garage. Below, we list some of the most commonly used ways you can reduce excess moisture from your garage.

Focus on Ventilation

Increasing ventilation is one of the best ways to reduce moisture and humidity in your garage, and it is also one of the easiest and most cost-effective methods. Start by keeping your garage doors and windows open whenever you can. This will help allow moisture trapped in the space to leave whenever possible. If your garage has exhaust fans, keep those running whenever possible as well. If extra air circulation is needed, consider bringing in a portable fan to blow some of that excess moisture outside.

Remember to keep the floors of your garage clear to allow for good airflow, and utilize storage options like shelves and hanging racks to keep the air circulating. If opening your garage doors and windows is too much of a hassle, even keeping the blinds open and allowing sunlight into the space can help evaporate excess condensation.

Check Your Drainage

Check out your garage and make sure that all of your drains and gutters are working properly. Floor drains should remain unobstructed so they can move water out of your garage as quickly as possible. Make sure your rain gutters are working properly, and check for any leaks from your roof, walls, or under your garage door. Plugging any leaks you find will help keep excess moisture out of your garage.

Use an Air Conditioner or Dehumidifier

If you have an air conditioning unit in your garage, turning it on can help either evaporate or remove any excess moisture you may be dealing with. If you do not have an air conditioner, consider using a dehumidifier. A household one will do the trick, just make sure it is capable of handling a space the size of your garage. Be sure to empty the water it collects to keep the dehumidifier working its best.

Use a Floor Coating

Applying a garage floor coating to your flooring can help significantly cut condensation levels within your garage. If moisture on the floor of your garage is a problem, consider using a coating made for a wet environment.

Wipe Off Your Vehicle

Humidity and condensation are easily created when you pull a wet or snowy car into your garage. To avoid bringing in this extra moisture, pull up right outside of your garage and wipe off any rain, snow, or ice you find.

We are Here to Help

The knowledgeable garage specialists at Blue Sky Builders, Inc. are here to help with whatever your next garage project may be. Call 630-852-8485 or visit Blue Sky Builders, Inc. online to learn more today.