Humid Cellar

Hello! So approaching the 1 year mark of owning my little condo with cellar access.

Recap: Around August 2020 I removed 90% of the drywall in the cellar. I discovered that it was almost all moldy (seriously, in some cases moldy drywall was put on top of slightly less moldy drywall). The removed drywall was not replaced.

Now after living here for about a year I am realizing it is very hot and humid down there. I don’t have a meter yet but we are running 2 dehumidifiers (they are 35-50 pint) (one has been hooked up to a pump — thanks @bobjbkln! it works great!)

Is this just how cellars are? Are there different things I can do to help move air around? I have been keeping an eye on the cellar since taking off the drywall and there aren’t any leaks… but the brick and stone are probably taking in the moisture of the ground?

I plan on limewashing the brick and stone foundation soon.

Any theories?

nathanjoe755

in General Discussion 3 years and 10 months ago

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cate | 3 years and 10 months ago

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Or maybe an engineer with expertise in this area. At the very least, you need windows (open with screens) under hatches front and back to bring in air. Boiler needs air. Real dedicated vents or ducts would work better though IMHO.

ceci | 3 years and 10 months ago

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Why don’t u consult with an architect? It might be worth it in the long run!!

nathanjoe755 | 3 years and 10 months ago

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Very true. Zippy ventilation. Do you have any recommendations for ventilation? I don’t have ducts nor do I have the budget for them. I was looking at this https://www.buildclub.com/product/bc0_427191997 is it worth it? Anyone tried it? Sorry this is scattered I have been going down every internet rabbit hole you can imagine.

JohnHancock | 3 years and 10 months ago

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I assume the dehumidifiers put out a lot of heat, sounds like you have not enough or any ventilation.

nathanjoe755 | 3 years and 10 months ago

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