How to Reduce Moisture in the Garage

Print this articleMoisture in a garage is often attributed to lack of climate control and ventilation. Warm, moist air becomes trapped inside the garage and may condense on tools and other items. Excess moisture can cause musty odors, mold and mildew growth and rusty tools. Ventilation, absorbent chemicals and cooler temperatures can help reduce moisture and humidity in your garage. With the proper techniques, you can prevent damage to your tools and avoid mold and mildew growth.

Related Searches:Difficulty:ModerateInstructions Things You'll NeedDehumidifierFanCloth bags or containersSilica gel or activated aluminaWindow air conditionerSuggest Edits1

Insulate the garage to create a vapor barrier and prevent humidity. Seal any holes or leaks to prevent moisture from entering the garage. It is better to treat the source of the problem rather than just tackling the symptoms.

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Place a dehumidifier in the garage to absorb moisture from the air. Empty the dehumidifier when it fills with water. If there's a window in the garage, place a fan in the open window facing outside to blow out the moist air. Ventilation can reduce moisture in the air.

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Hang cloth bags of silica gel or activated alumina in the garage or place open containers of silica gel or activated alumina on shelves to absorb moisture from the air. When they become full of water, discard them and refill the bags or containers.

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Install an air conditioner in the garage window, if possible. Cool, dry air from the air conditioner can reduce moisture in the summer months.

Tips & Warnings

Find silica gel at craft stores or home improvement stores.

Keep silica gel or activated alumina out of reach of children and pets.

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References"This Old House"; Lowering the Humidity; Richard TretheweyUGA College of Family and Consumer Sciences Cooperative Extension Service; Mildew Prevention and Removal; Dale DormanResources"Popular Mechanics"; How to Install a Window Air-Conditioner Unit; Brian ResnickU.S. Department of Energy: Vapor Barriers or Vapor Diffusion RetardersRead Next:

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