Air Humidity and Humidity in Structures
Why People Confuse Air Humidity in the House and Humidity in Building Structures
1. Lack of Understanding of Physical Processes Air Humidity:
- Air humidity refers to the amount of water vapor present in the air. It can change quickly depending on factors such as temperature, precipitation, ventilation, and the use of humidifiers or dehumidifiers.Humidity in Building Structures:- Humidity in building structures (walls, floors, ceilings) refers to the water content in construction materials. These materials can absorb and retain moisture for long periods, and their humidity changes very slowly.
2. Perception InfluenceSubjective Perception:
- People often judge air humidity by how they feel in a room—if it feels stuffy or they smell dampness, they may conclude that the air humidity is high, not considering the humidity of the construction materials.Visual and Tactile Cues:- The visual absence of mold or dampness can create a false sense of dryness. Tactile cues, such as walls that feel dry to the touch, can also be misleading.
3. Measurement Equipment and MethodsMeasurement Devices:
- Hygrometers are used to measure air humidity and can quickly show changes in humidity levels.- Moisture meters are used to determine the humidity in construction materials, providing insight into the deeper moisture content. These devices are not as commonly used in households, so many people may not be aware of the difference.
4. Hidden Moisture Issues Hidden Moisture:
- Moisture can be absorbed and retained by materials like drywall, brick, and wood, and may not be visible on the surface. Even with low air humidity, walls can remain damp due to long-term water penetration.
Slow Processes:
- The drying process for construction materials takes a long time, as water evaporates slowly from dense materials, especially without good ventilation.
ConclusionPeople often confuse air humidity and humidity in building structures due to various factors, such as a lack of understanding of physical processes, subjective perception, the use of different measurement devices, and the presence of hidden moisture. It is important to consider both characteristics for proper indoor climate management.