Condensation Issues with Steel Carports

Installing a steel carport is one of the best investments you can make when it comes to your property and your vehicle. A carport protects your car from the elements and is much more cost-efficient than building a whole garage. The only problem is that steel carports in Houston, TX tend to run into issues with condensation. Why is condensation, a problem and what can be done to prevent it? Keep reading to find out!

What is condensation and why does it form?

Condensation is natural; it forms when hot air touches a cooler surface. There’s a lot of water in the air in Houston, and condensation is bound to form when that warm air touches a cold surface like a metal carport. There are two types of condensation: visible and concealed:

• Visible condensation: As its name suggests, visible condensation is the condensation we see that forms when air comes into contact with a cooler surface. While it’s certainly common in metal carports, a patio company in Houston, TX sees condensation form on a wide variety of surfaces.
• Concealed condensation: This one is the more damaging condensation that often leads to problems in metal carports. It occurs when moisture passes into a metal building’s interior and condenses below the surface.

Problems from condensation

Condensation can lead to a number of both visible and hard-to-detect problems with your carport. Some of the most common include:

• Corrosion: Even though steel carports in Houston, TX are treated to prevent corrosion, an abundance of condensation over time can eat away at the treated metal. This will cause your carport to look bad and can weaken its structure.
• Insulation issues: Concealed condensation under the surface causes big problems for your insulation. Damp insulation doesn’t work as well as dry insulation, which can make any structure less comfortable.
• Mold growth: Mold growth due to concealed condensation is a big concern. Mold is harmful to everyone’s health, and it doesn’t smell very pleasant! Be sure to have your carport treated for mold if you suspect it’s growing in your structure.
• Insect infestations: Insects love hiding out in insulation. If your carport is insulated and the insulation is weakened due to condensation, you can bet that insects will find their way in and set up shop.

Prevent condensation

When it comes to keeping your carport in functional and attractive shape, there are some steps you can take to better ensure your success:

• Insulating is key: Keeping your carport well insulated can do wonders when it comes to cutting back on your condensation. The warmer it is inside, the less condensation you’ll have.
• Ensure proper air circulation: Keeping airflow to a maximum inside your carport will reduce the volume of water droplets that form inside. Allowing too much heat to stay trapped inside a metal building is a great way to build up a lot of condensation.
• Use a dehumidifier: Humid areas often have the biggest issues with condensation. Dehumidifiers don’t cost all that much money, and they do wonders to suck moisture out of the air that would eventually lead to condensation.

As your trusted patio company in Houston, TX, you can rest easy knowing that ABC Awning Company will expertly install your new carport to ensure it runs into as few issues with condensation as possible. Call us today to set up a consultation for your new carport!

Categorised in: Patio Company, Steel Carports