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The impacts of summer heat and humidity on your home | Home Smart

Many love the seasonal change of spring to summer for the heat and humidity, but these two factors can cause a lot of harm to an unprepared home.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. — Summer lovers can't wait for the seasonal shift each year, but increases to the heat and humidity in Pennsylvania can be a lot for the home. 

“Although it’s not Florida Humidity, Pennsylvania gets pretty humid during the summer,” said Linda Johnston, General Manager of Renewal by Andersen.

As that humidity and heat sizzles over the next few months, the home may start to feel the effects, especially when it comes to the functionality of your windows and doors. 

Johnston says one of the most important things to watch out for is condensation creeping into your window panes due to high humidity. 

If undetected, condensation can lead to mold growth in poorly ventilated places within your home. One of those spaces, being the attic. 

“Some of the things you can do to combat that is to make sure your humidity readings in your home are staying below 35%,” Johnston said.  

To accomplish this reading try putting in a dehumidifier, and double check the seal on your windows.  

Humidity isn't the only factor to watch out for, high heat can also pose a major problem as well.  

“Unfortunately, with the heat of the central Pennsylvania summer often times homeowners will suffer with vinyl windows where they warp and crack due to the heat,” Johnston said. 

Cracks can allow cool air from inside to leak outside, ultimately reducing the energy efficiency of the home.  

If you notice this happening, consider replacing the damaged windows with ones made out of a stronger material. 

Lastly, doors have similar concerns when it comes to sealing in your air conditioning.

Make sure to keep an eye on the way a patio or front door closes and shuts and secure any loose bolts in the hinges or handles that may arise.

For more information about Renewal by Andersen products click here, and you can follow them on social media.

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