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Nov 01, 2023
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Problems Low Humidity Levels Can Cause For Your Home

Maintaining a healthy amount of humidity within your home can be a balancing act.  That’s because the amount of water vapor found within your home is continuously changing.  Because cold air contains less water than warmer air, the winter months are a prime time for low home humidity levels. This holds particularly true for older, less energy-efficient homes.  A home with too low of humidity levels can prove problematic for a plethora of reasons.  Here’s what you need to know.

How Low is Too Low for Your Home’s Humidity?

Humidity levels below 30% can cause issues with your home and health.  Unsure if your home’s humidity levels are too low?  A simple test is to fill a glass of water and then drop in three ice cubes.  If there’s no condensation on the exterior of the glass after three minutes, it’s a sign that your home’s humidity levels should be higher.  To determine the exact levels of humidity within your home, invest in a hygrometer.Minnesota home in winter covered with snow

Health Issues Caused by Low Humidity Levels

Low humidity levels can be the result of an array of health issues.  Lips can become perpetually chapped.   Your eyes and skin can rapidly become dry and itchy.  The likelihood of catching a cold, the flu, or infection can skyrocket because of the inflammation of your mucous membrane.  Recovering from these symptoms can be prolonged if the home’s humidity levels are not addressed.  Occupants of low humidity homes also frequently complain of scratchy throats and frequent bloody noses.

Home Issues Caused by Low Humidity Levels

There’s no need to “tough it out” if your home’s humidity levels are too low.  That’s because several areas of your home can also be negatively impacted.  Static electricity is evidence of low home humidity levels.  Elevated levels of static electricity can negatively impact the internal components of electronics. Cracked wallpaper and drywall seams that have pulled apart are also telltale signs of a home with too little humidity.  

The same holds true for chipped paint.  Photographs, books, stamps, and artwork will crumble if exposed to prolonged periods of low humidity.  Wooden furniture and flooring aren’t exempt from the hazards of abysmal moisture levels, as they can crack as a result.

house in winter with icicles and snow on the roof

Tips for Increasing Your Home’s Humidity Levels

The most straightforward way to address low humidity levels within your home is to invest in a humidifier.  In some scenarios, a humidifier in a few select rooms will suffice.  Other times, one that services your entire home is warranted.  Setting your home’s thermostat to a lower level can also provide relief because the more artificial heat your home utilizes, the dryer it becomes. Increasing the number of plants within your home can also up your home’s humidity levels.

Contact us today to see how Lindus Construction can help you improve your home’s energy efficiency and keep its humidity levels more stable.

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Twin Cities Home Improvement Reviews:

"I initially thought I needed more attic insulation, but after an inspection by Tyler Durand, it turned out we had enough insulation, but poor ventilation. I replaced clogged eve vents on the west side of my home, and when Randall Bowman installed 6-foot air vent shoots in the attic, he also replaced the eve vents on the east side and added an extra vent. Randall went above and beyond, and I'm grateful for his extra effort. This should help keep more snow on the roof this winter. Overall, I'm highly satisfied and would recommend Lindus to others."

Lyle D.
New Hope, MN
September 5, 2023

"I highly recommend Lindus Construction. Reasonable prices and excellent workmanship."

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Minneapolis, MN
August 4, 2023

"We highly recommend Lindus for home improvement projects -- our new deck is beautiful, built with high quality materials and attention to details. The construction crew was experienced and professional."

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White Bear Lake, MN
July 5, 2023

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St. Paul, MN
July 3, 2023

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White Bear Lake, MN
May 26, 2023

"We had all our windows, sliding glass door and front entry door replaced by Lindus Construction. Jake Calleja, sales rep for Lindus Construction, is the real deal. He is honest, upfront, patient and works hard to fulfill the homeowners ideas and wants. Lindus Construction is a top notch company with high end quality products and very knowledgeable and experienced craftsmen."

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Stillwater, MN
May 17, 2023
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