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So … The Walls Are Sweating?

Concerned about damp walls in your house? Moisture can accumulate in your home, leaving walls as sweaty as the winner of the Boston Marathon. Wall deodorant isn’t a thing, but we have solutions for moisture on walls.

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If you suspect your walls are sweating from condensation or humidity problems, we’ll explain why interior wall condensation occurs and how you can prevent sweating walls.

Is It Normal to Have Moisture on Your Walls?

If your walls are sweating, condensation is typically the culprit. Think about how an ice-cold glass of lemonade or tea sweats on a hot summer day. A similar process occurs when warm, humid air combines with the cool surface of your walls or ceiling.

The water in your air becomes wall condensation when it can’t evaporate. Cold air has less space to retain water than warm air, so moisture quickly turns into water droplets. This can cause wall condensation problems in your home.

Why Your Walls Are Sweating

Moisture on walls often stems from high indoor humidity. Insulation issues, ventilation problems and temperature spikes can all play a role. Here’s a quick description of why these factors could be causing sweaty walls in your home.

High Indoor Humidity

Taking hot baths and showers, running the dryer or preparing your favorite recipe can increase humidity in your home. Even breathing can increase humidity levels — but don’t worry, you don’t have to hold your breath. Ensure your home has adequate ventilation, and run a fan when you shower or cook.

Insulation Issues

Poorly insulated walls are humidity magnets, so replace or add drywall behind walls that frequently trap moisture. You should also seal gaps or holes around doors, windows and baseboards. Installing double- or triple-pane windows may also help fend off excess humidity.

Ventilation Problems

Poor ventilation makes it difficult for your home to release extra humidity. Keep air moving with ceiling or box fans, and open doors or windows on a cool day. Trickle vents and air bricks can also improve airflow.

Your heating and cooling system may also need attention. An HVAC tech can check for ventilation problems and offer personalized solutions.

Temperature Spikes

Drastic indoor temperature changes can cause condensation buildup or humidity on walls. Don’t blast the AC if you come home to a sweltering home, and don’t run the heat at full force if it’s freezing inside. Slowly cool or heat your home to prevent excess humidity.

Using a programmable thermostat can help prevent temperature spikes. Also, avoid placing furniture or large toys directly against walls, as these can trap moisture.

How to Fix Walls Sweating From Condensation

After identifying the cause of your home’s sweating walls, you can take steps to prevent humidity on the walls. Basically, you must decrease humidity, improve ventilation and address insulation problems. The treatment you choose for walls sweating from condensation depends on the culprit.

Here are some ways you can reduce moisture on walls:

  • Install ceiling fans in each room, and take advantage of your stovetop and bathroom fans.
  • Ask a professional if you could benefit from air bricks or trickle vents.
  • Use a smart or programmable thermostat to keep temperatures consistent and cool or heat your home slowly.
  • Address insulation issues, such as doorway gaps, broken windows, missing drywall or broken baseboards.
  • Schedule regular maintenance appointments for your HVAC system and ductwork so you can identify leaks quickly.
  • Ask an HVAC professional if your home needs a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels low.
  • Many wall condensation problems are treatable with a few simple home upgrades or lifestyle changes.

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Prevention Tips for Interior Wall Condensation

Humidity can enter your home through gaps in doors, windows, baseboards, flooring and roofing. Poor ventilation also plays a strong role, so have a professional ensure your home’s ventilation system is in good condition. You may need new ductwork or vents if you have ventilation problems, especially if you have an older home. Make sure your home has adequate insulation, such as drywall or fiberglass behind the walls.

Keep an eye on indoor humidity levels. Otherwise, you may end up with moldy walls, flaking paint or peeling wallpaper. Excess moisture can also damage your home’s frame, resulting in costly damage. Seek professional assistance if your home has insulation, ventilation or humidity problems.

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