F.Y.I. 

Reduce Basement Humidity

All basements are subject to high humidity and moisture levels, especially between Spring and Autumn. Typically, most basements are below the ground level. Therefore, basement foundations and floors are in constant contact with damp soil. Moisture will typically transmit through these surfaces by way of capillary action, commonly referred to as moisture migration. 



The following recommendations will assist to reduce high humidity and dampness levels in basements:

• Cold storage rooms must be naturally ventilated either with an operating window or a wall vent.
  
• Install an exhaust fan in the basement bathroom.
  
• Avoid storage of materials directly against unfinished foundation walls or unfinished basement floors.
  
• Too much storage of materials in a basement, or overfilled closets, will impede air circulation.
  
• A small room fan could be operated to encourage proper air circulation.
  
• Ensure that all spaces in the basement are ventilated. Undercutting of closet doors, cabinet doors and installing wall grills may be required in the storage areas.
  
• Seasonally disconnect your central humidifier (in April, if attached to your furnace).
  
• Position a dehumidifier in a central basement location and operate continuously during months of high humidity. 
  
• Leave the furnace fan on continuous operation in houses with a forced-air heating system. Ideally, return-air inlet grills should be installed low on the wall in a central location.
  
• Finished flooring materials should be of resilient material such as vinyl, PVC or ceramic. Carpeting or raised wood sub-flooring is not recommended in most basements.