What Can I Put on a Concrete Floor to Keep It From Sweating?

Cause

• Condensation is a common problem when the temperature is cold. The colder the temperature, the more likely condensation is to occur. Condensation on your concrete floor occurs when warm heated air meets cold air next to the concrete, causing condensation to stick to the floor. High humidity also contributes to condensation. Everyone who lives inside your home adds an additional 3 pints of water vapor to the air, states North Dakota State University. Other activities, such as doing laundry and showering, raise humidity levels as well. When humidity levels are high inside your home during the winter months, condensation may occur on walls, windows and concrete floors.

Effects

• When condensation maintains a thin layer of moisture on your concrete, there is a chance mold will begin to grow. Mold spores grow when they land in wet areas on concrete, tile, wood, drywall, fabric or carpet. When mold is growing anywhere in your home, there is a chance someone will experience adverse health effects after exposure. In sensitive people, mold growth can cause symptoms that range from moderate to very severe. Nasal congestion, hives, itching eyes and wheezing are all symptoms associated with mold exposure.

Insulation

• Adding insulation to your home can prevent condensation during the winter. According to the Environmental Protection Agency or EPA, adding insulation to your home will reduce heat loss inside your home and help prevent condensation. There are many different types of insulation you can add to your home. Loose-fill insulation is blown into attics with special equipment. Blanket insulation comes in batts and rolls and is used to fill empty cavities with material that reduces heat transfer. Foam board insulation is available in rigid panels that may be installed on walls, ceilings, in attics or in basements.

Reducing Humidity

• Since high levels of humidity inside your home is another cause of condensation, reducing humidity will help prevent condensation from forming on your concrete floors. Installing vents in your kitchen and bathrooms will help remove moisture from the air inside your home. Venting your clothes dryer to the outside will also help reduce humidity. Repair any areas of your home that allow water to seep inside and raise humidity levels. Caulking all cracks and gaps that allow air to leak in or out of your home will reduce humidity as well.