Maintaining Healthy Humidity Levels in Your Log Home
Whether you live in a conventionally-built home, log home, or post and beam home an important aspect of owning and caring for your home is the importance of maintaining proper humidity levels. This is true all year round but especially during the winter months when heat from the furnace and fireplace can rob your home of humidity. Low humidity levels can be the cause for loose joints in wooden furniture, static electricity, and various health problems. Sound familiar? The good news is these problems can be reduced by monitoring and maintaining safe levels of humidity in your home.
Humidity Levels in NEW Homes
In most cases with a home that has been newly constructed, humidity levels will be high for a period of time. This is typically due to masonry or concrete from your fireplace and /or basement releasing moisture as it cures. This abundance of moisture will often manifest itself as condensation builds up on windows and glass on doors. Additionally, tongue and groove paneling or other wood products in your home may absorb this moisture and swell. As the masonry products continue to cure, humidity levels will become reduced. Now the question remains: How do I you stabilize the levels?
Stabilizing Humidity Levels
One such method would be to utilize a hygrometer. Hygrometers are designed to monitor these levels and are available in a price range between $25 – $75. Ideally, humidity levels should be kept as high as possible without creating condensation issues. The recommended range is between 35 – 50%. Portable humidifiers may be the prescribed method to ensure your home is receiving the proper amount of moisture back into the air. Another cure is to install a humidifier directly to your furnace. Once properly adjusted, these units will automatically control the proper levels within your home.
The Effects of Healthy Humidity Levels
By monitoring and maintaining your home’s humidity levels, you’ll not only ensure your family’s comfort, but you’ll also ensure the stability and good health of the wood in your Timberhaven log home or post and beam home. Take it from me, Dr. Kiln-Dry, you’ll be glad you did.
Dr. Kiln-Dry is an expert in the log home industry. He specializes in kiln drying and laminating processes. He is pleased to share future project updates and important findings via Timberhaven’s blog.
