Rain falling outside a window of a Florida property
Tips for Commercial Properties
Winter in Florida may bring cooler temperatures, but one thing that doesn’t change is the challenge of managing humidity. While many associate high humidity with summer, Orlando’s subtropical climate ensures moisture remains a year-round concern—even in the winter months. For commercial property owners, maintaining proper humidity control is essential to prevent water damage, mold growth, and other indoor air quality issues.
At Remediation Specialists, we understand the unique challenges Florida’s climate poses. Let’s explore why humidity control matters in winter and provide actionable tips to protect your property.
Why Humidity Control is Critical in Florida Winters
While northern states grapple with freezing temperatures, Florida’s winter weather tends to stay mild and damp. This creates the perfect environment for:
- Mold Growth: Mold thrives in moist conditions, and elevated indoor humidity levels can accelerate its development in as little as 48 hours.
- Condensation Issues: Cooler outdoor temperatures can lead to condensation on windows, walls, and HVAC ducts, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and mildew.
- Structural Damage: Prolonged exposure to high humidity can weaken building materials, including drywall, wood, and insulation.
Maintaining a consistent indoor environment is key to preventing these costly and potentially hazardous issues.
5 Essential Humidity Control Tips for Commercial Properties
- Monitor Indoor Humidity Levels: Invest in hygrometers or humidity sensors to track indoor conditions. The ideal relative humidity (RH) for most buildings is between 30–50%. In Florida, staying closer to 40% helps minimize mold and moisture risks.
Pro Tip: Integrate humidity monitoring with your building management system (BMS) for real-time tracking and adjustments.
- Optimize HVAC System Performance: Your HVAC system is your first line of defense against humidity-related problems:
- Ensure your system is appropriately sized for your building. Oversized systems may cool spaces quickly without adequately dehumidifying the air.
- Schedule routine maintenance to clean filters, check condensate drains, and verify that dehumidification components are working properly.
- Use programmable thermostats to maintain consistent temperatures and humidity levels throughout the day, especially during colder mornings and evenings.
- Use Dehumidifiers Where Needed: For areas with persistent humidity issues—such as basements, kitchens, or restrooms—portable or installed dehumidifiers can provide targeted relief.
- Consider desiccant dehumidifiers for spaces with sensitive materials, such as archives or laboratories, as they perform well in cooler conditions.
- Check dehumidifier settings regularly to avoid over-drying, which can cause other problems like cracked wood or static buildup.
- Address Building Envelope Issues: A leaky building envelope can allow outdoor moisture to seep inside, exacerbating indoor humidity issues. Conduct regular inspections to:
- Identify and seal gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and exterior walls.
- Repair or replace weatherstripping as needed.
- Inspect your roof for leaks or damaged flashing that could lead to water intrusion.
Pro Tip: Exterior waterproofing is a year-round investment in Florida, protecting your property from moisture ingress no matter the season. We are happy to conduct a commercial building evaluation at any point in the year for you.
- Educate Occupants and Staff: Sometimes, the people in your building inadvertently contribute to humidity problems. Educate staff and tenants on best practices:
- Avoid leaving windows open during damp weather.
- Use exhaust fans in restrooms and kitchens to reduce moisture buildup.
- Report any leaks or condensation issues immediately.
What to Do If Humidity Issues Persist
If your commercial property continues to struggle with high humidity despite these measures, it’s essential to bring in professionals. Uncontrolled humidity can quickly lead to mold growth or hidden water damage that requires expert remediation.
At Remediation Specialists, we specialize in addressing moisture-related problems in Florida’s unique climate. Our team uses advanced techniques, including thermal imaging and air quality testing, to identify the source of the issue and deliver effective solutions tailored to your property.
Stay Ahead of Florida’s Humidity Challenges
Winter might not bring snow or freezing temperatures to Orlando, but it still demands attention to your property’s unique needs. By prioritizing humidity control, you’ll protect your investment, ensure a healthier environment for occupants, and avoid costly remediation down the road.
Need help with mold remediation or water damage? Contact Remediation Specialists at 407-740-6653 for expert assistance. We’re here to help you maintain your property’s value and safety all year long.
Don’t let Florida’s winter humidity catch you off guard—start implementing these tips today for a trouble-free season!
