Humidity, not temperature, is the true cause of destructive forces such as mites, molds, mildew, rust, paper rot, and wood degradation.
Humidity controlled storage is the result of careful research on the best way to protect valuables over time. Originally, humidity control systems were developed to protect archives and sensitive electronics. The Smithsonian, Volvo, Boeing, and the U.S. Military have all trusted humidity control technology to protect their equipment. Even today, Air Force One and Two are protected in their hangars by humidity control systems.
Climate Monitoring
Humidity controlled storage is a safer option to choose to help prevent damage if you have items that require storage in a climate controlled environment. Items that are sensitive to high humidity are generally stored in rooms with humidity levels that below 60 RH (Relative Humidity). If you are inspecting a warehouse that offers controlled environment storage, ask them how they monitor the climate. Does the warehouse have temperature and humidity chart recorders or other devices such as PC interfaces to monitor the conditions in the warehouse?
What Items need climate controlled storage conditions?
Metal Equipment
The most obvious effect humidity has is rust. Metals need moisture to oxidize and corrode. As relative humidity increases, the rate of corrosion increases dramatically – even a 10% rise in humidity may double the rate of corrosion. Industrial items such as motors, gearboxes, pumps, exchanger bundles, and any other item consisting of metal should be considered for humidity control storage.
Wood, Fabric, Leather, and Paper
Molds germinate and grow in the presence of moisture. As relative humidity increases, model growth escalates. Some molds, especially Black Mold, have been linked to chronic lung infections, allergies and other unexplained illnesses. Though it is not known how Black Mold causes these problems, the likelihood of these difficulties increases as mold volume increases. Mold may grow on virtually any surface. The acid that molds produce is destructive to wood, fabric, leather, and paper.
