Missouri Crawl Space Humidity

crawl space humidity

Vented dirt crawl spaces in Missouri are naturally cool, usually maintaining an average temperature in the low fifties year round.

However, during the hot, humid summer months in the St. Louis region, crawl space vents allow warm, humid air in. Because cooler air holds less moisture than warm air, the relative humidity in the crawl space raises dramatically.

Once the relative humidity reaches 100%, the air in the crawl space cannot hold anymore moisture. The extra moisture appears as condensation on the ground, floor joists, insulation, and any items stored in the crawl space.

This condensation, combined with the organic material found in wood, boxes, insulation, and other objects found in a crawlspace, creates a perfect environment for mold to grow. Any organic surface will quickly be covered in mold and rot, and mildew will form wherever it can. As mold grows, it will send millions of spores into the air. Insects such as termites will enter the basement and feed off the rotting wood. Rodents move into the home and feed off the insects as well, creating an even larger problem. Dust mites live and thrive in the humidity, sending their fecal matter into the air.

How does this affect the entire home? See Stack Effect

Crawl Space Dehumidifier

santa-fe advance 2 dehumidifier

The Santa Fe Advance will help maintain the structural integrity of your home, inhibit mold growth, and improve the indoor air quality of your home by removing odor-causing moisture and maintaining 50% or less relative humidity as recommended by the EPA, American Lung Association, and American Medical Association.

As much as 50% of the air you breathe on the first floor of your home comes from your crawlspace. Relative humidity levels above 70% in your crawlspace stimulate the growth of mold, mildew, bacteria and other biological allergens, which generate musty odors. Air infiltration from the crawlspace permeates the living area, carries odors, and contributes to poor indoor air quality and uncomfortable humidity levels. The Santa Fe Advance offers time-tested technology to maintain recommended humidity levels in your crawlspace and to protect your home and family from the consequences of high humidity.