Friday’s Chicago Tribune included a story about the increased amount of people suffering from allergies today versus 30 years ago. Citing data from the National Association of Home Builders Research Center, the story concluded that many of our allergy problems have to do with poor indoor air quality within our homes.

An important note from the article relates to the control of moisture levels:

Excessive humidity supports the growth of mold spores and dust mites, while dry air can cause static electricity, dry skin or respiratory ailments.

Humidification systems, as the story highlights, play an important role in regulating moisture levels within the home. Lou Cole, president and owner of Emecole, says that the ideal humidity level is at 50%.

In addition to humidification systems, homeowners can further improve their home’s indoor air quality by addressing any known water problems in their basement or crawl space – a lingering foundation crack which leaks water is a good example. In addition, open voids in the cove (where the foundation wall meets the floor), cracks in the floor or an open, unsealed crawl space may contribute to harmful soil gases from entering the home. The most serious problems involving basements and crawl spaces are not always obvious problems easily seen.

Homeowners are best served to have their basements or crawl spaces inspected by a reputable basement waterproofing contractor – someone who can identify the obvious and not so obvious problems. Emecole can recommend a contractor in your area. Call (800) 844-2713 or by completing the Find an Emecole Contractor form by clicking here.