When we install trim in customer’s homes in the fall and winter, we measure how dry the air is inside(you can pick up a digital gauge at the box stores for under $20). Most folks don’t know what their humidity level is or realize how damaging it can be to the ENTIRE CONTENTS of their homes – trim work, flooring (hardwood and laminate), glue joints on table and chair legs, cabinetry doors in kitchens and baths, as well as ourselves (dry, itchy skin).
You’ll want to keep the humidity above 40% in the fall/winter. This means that if you live in Ontario, you’ll most likely need to add moisture to the air. The best way to do this is to have a humidifier installed on your furnace(approx. $450 installed). If you don’t have a forced air furnace, then a stand-alone humidifier works great too (it should be a large, floor model unit like the one shown below, to have any real effect on the humidity ). Yes, you may have windows that have condensation on them(especially if you have blinds, shutters, or drapes that prevent good air circulation). An added benefit to adding moisture into the air is that it makes your home feel noticeably warmer, allowing you to turn lower the thermostat setting. In summertime, with higher humidity (especially in basements) , we need to dehumidify with de-humidifiers or simply, by turning on the air conditioner. This is a part of the extreme climate we are exposed to, but a key factor in maintaining your home, furnishings and health.
humidifier
Happy Renovating!