High humidity in walls can cause paint to peel.
High humidity is most common in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms, where the shower, stove and appliances release steam regularly. When left unmonitored, water vapor can build up on walls, causing mildew, rot and paint peeling or bubbling. You can control humidity and fix these aesthetic and structural problems with improved ventilation, a few home repairs and lifestyle changes.
Instructions
1. Fill cracks and holes in the wall with drywall compound or wood putty to prevent moisture from leaking through. Spread the filler flat with a putty knife.
2. Apply a polyurethane sealer or a fresh coat of paint to affected walls to protect the surface. If the old paint is flaking off or bubbling, scrape off the paint in these areas before applying a fresh coat.
3. Inspect the condition of your wall's insulation and vapor barriers. A vapor barrier is a layer of plastic sheeting found underneath the insulation. Replace thin or soggy insulation and worn vapor barriers.
4. Install exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen and run them while boiling water or showering. The exhaust fans will reduce the amount of water vapor in the air.
5. Run a dehumidifier in high-moisture areas and empty the water tray on a daily basis.
6. Reduce the time and frequency of household activities which cause water vapor, such as washing dishes, boiling water for cooking, bathing and showering or using the washing machine.
Tags: water vapor, boiling water, exhaust fans, fresh coat, vapor barriers