Orlando: where Mickey rules the Magic Kingdom, tourists flood the parks, and… humidity sticks to you like glitter at a preschool art project. While the weather may keep your skin dewy, it’s not doing your property any favors.
Florida’s climate is unique. With average humidity levels hovering around 74%, Orlando ranks among the most humid cities in the U.S. That’s not just a fun weather fact; it’s a red flag for property owners.
Mold, mildew, warped wood, rust, and roof rot? They all love humidity more than a snowbird loves a Florida condo. But don’t sweat it (pun intended), this guide will show you how to prevent the most common property damage in Central Florida, without losing your cool.
1. Mold: The Fungus Among Us
Let’s start with the big one: mold. Mold thrives in damp, warm environments. Translation? Orlando is mold’s favorite vacation home. The stats:
- 70% of homes in humid regions report some form of mold.
- Mold remediation costs in Florida range from $500 to $6,000, depending on severity.
What you can do:
- Install dehumidifiers in key areas, especially basements and bathrooms.
- Keep indoor humidity below 60%. Bonus points if you keep it closer to 50%.
- Use mold-resistant paint in kitchens, laundry rooms, and bathrooms.
- Check AC filters regularly. A clogged filter is basically mold’s VIP entrance.
Also, if you walk into a room and it smells like an old towel, that’s mold’s not-so-subtle calling card.
2. Wood Damage: When Things Start to Warp Out
Wood and humidity? Not friends. High moisture levels cause wood to swell, warp, or even rot. Floors buckle. Doors stick. And cabinets start to look like they had one too many piña coladas. Prevention tactics:
- Seal all wood surfaces. That includes window frames, decks, and wooden furniture.
- Use moisture-resistant materials like treated lumber or composite decking.
- Keep your indoor temperature consistent, fluctuations increase expansion and contraction.
If your floorboards start sounding like bubble wrap when you walk across them, it’s time for an inspection.
3. Roof Woes: Leaks, Lifts, and Leftovers
Orlando gets about 52 inches of rain each year. That’s over a foot more than the national average. Add in that moisture-heavy air, and your roof is doing a lot of heavy lifting, literally. What to watch for:
- Leaky ceilings
- Missing or curled shingles
- Mold stains on the underside of the roof
How to fight back:
- Inspect your roof at least twice a year (especially after hurricane season).
- Clean out gutters to prevent water buildup.
- Make sure your attic is properly ventilated. It helps reduce moisture and prolong the life of your roof.
Your roof is basically your property’s raincoat. If it’s got holes, the whole outfit’s ruined.
4. Rust Never Sleeps (Especially in Florida)
Metal fixtures, appliances, pipes, nothing is safe from rust in humid environments. One small patch of corrosion can turn into a full-blown plumbing or appliance disaster. How to keep rust in check:
- Regularly check appliances, especially around the water heater, washing machine, and under sinks.
- Apply anti-rust coatings or use stainless steel where possible.
- Keep garages and utility rooms well-ventilated.
Even your AC unit can fall victim. Rusted coils mean less efficiency and higher energy bills.
5. Paint Problems: When Walls Cry for Help
You might think peeling or bubbling paint is just an aesthetic issue. Nope. It’s your walls begging for help. Humidity seeps into the surface, lifts the paint, and gives mold a place to party. How to protect your walls:
- Choose high-quality, humidity-resistant paints.
- Prime surfaces before painting.
- Don’t paint when humidity is high, it traps moisture under the surface.
Think of paint as your property’s skin. It needs protection, not just pretty colors.
6. The A/C: Your MVP in Humidity Control
Your air conditioning system isn’t just about comfort. It’s the first line of defense against Florida’s moisture overload. Here’s how to keep it working for you:
- Change filters monthly (yes, monthly, this isn’t up north).
- Schedule regular maintenance.
- Use a programmable thermostat to avoid wild temperature swings.
Bonus: A healthy AC unit also helps lower your energy bill.
7. Landscape Smarts: Don’t Let the Outside Sneak In
Even your yard can betray you if you’re not careful. Heavy rains and poor drainage can lead to foundation damage, especially if water pools near the base of your property. Landscaping tips:
- Grade your yard so water flows away from the foundation.
- Keep bushes and trees trimmed. Overgrowth traps moisture and pests.
- Install French drains or sump pumps in high-risk areas.
Nature is great, but not when it’s creeping into your crawlspace.
How TrustHome Properties Can Help
Feeling like you need a dehumidifier just to read this list? Don’t worry. You don’t have to go it alone.
TrustHome Properties has been helping Orlando property owners protect their investments from Florida’s finicky climate for years. From routine maintenance to emergency fixes, they know what it takes to keep your property safe, sound, and mold-free. Our TrustHome team can:
- Inspect and maintain your property regularly
- Coordinate repairs before small problems become big bills
- Keep tenants happy and properties protected, rain or shine
So go ahead, enjoy your iced coffee, let the AC hum, and reach out to our team to help you handle the humidity.
