At Polygon, we specialize in advanced climate solutions tailored for mass timber projects—offering real-time monitoring, precise humidity control, and expert guidance to protect materials at every stage. Discover how Polygon can help you safeguard mass timber and other construction materials for your next project.
We’ve seen firsthand how misconceptions about temporary climate control can lead to delays, added costs, and reduced quality on job sites.
To help clear things up, we asked our experts to share their insights on common myths. Here’s what they had to say.
MYTH
Desiccant dehumidifiers are only necessary for extreme moisture control.
"Desiccant dehumidifiers are essential for more than just extreme moisture control. They’re great for preventing condensation, especially in areas like loading docks where cold and warm air meet. Their ability to remove moisture makes them versatile and more aggressive at moisture removal than refrigerant-based systems."
Guillermo Martinez
Engineering and Estimating Manager | Polygon
MYTH
Relative humidity measures the % of moisture in the air
Not quite. 40% RH does not mean the air is 40% water. Relative humidity measures water vapor, but RELATIVE to the temperature of the air. In other words, it is a measure of the actual amount of water vapor in the air compared to the total amount of vapor that can exist in the air at its current temperature. Different temperatures can hold different amounts of vapor. That’s why you can’t just look at RH to understand moisture levels. For a more accurate picture of conditions, we look at grains per pound (GR/LB) or specific humidity for our moisture load calculations.
Bruce Zawisky
National Operations Manager | Polygon
MYTH
Direct-fired heaters are the cheapest and most efficient option.
"Direct-fired heaters offer 100% fuel-to-heat efficiency, but people often overlook the cost for proper ventilation and energy. If you're working in enclosed spaces, the cost of venting harmful emissions can quickly add up. Also, direct-fired heat requires drawing in outside air and heating it up, so fuel consumption could be higher than you expect. Nonetheless, outside air can introduce unwanted humidity into the space. In many cases, indirect-fired heaters are safer, cleaner, especially for occupied areas or sensitive environments.”
Guillermo Martinez
Engineering and Estimating Manager | Polygon
MYTH
If you have dehumidifiers, you don’t need air scrubbers.
"Actually, you often need both. While desiccant dehumidifiers help prevent mold and control moisture, air scrubbers capture particles like dust and allergens that can still float around. Using both together ensures your space is both clean and dry, which is key on many construction sites."
Kevin Lockard
VP, Managing Director | Polygon
MYTH
Air scrubbers and dehumidifiers do the same thing.
"We come across this mix-up from time to time. Air scrubbers are designed to remove airborne particles like dust and mold spores from the air, while desiccant dehumidifiers remove moisture. The two serve different purposes, but they complement each other and can be integral parts of a climate control system. Clean air doesn't mean dry air, and dry air doesn't guarantee clean air."
Guillermo Martinez
Engineering and Estimating Manager | Polygon
MYTH
Using heat is an easier and cheaper way to dry a space.
"While it’s true that heat can help dry out a space by increasing the air's ability to hold moisture, it’s not always the best approach. Heat-based dehumidification works well in warmer climates, but it struggles in cold environments. The rental price for a heater is less expensive than a dehumidifier but you will most likely run it full time costing much more in energy than what is necessary. In contrast, desiccant dehumidifiers work across all temperatures, ensuring consistent moisture control even in colder months. Heat can’t compete with desiccant dehumidification in cold conditions.”
David Simkins
Director of Engineering and Technology | Polygon
MYTH
Indirect-fired heaters are too expensive for most jobs.
"This is a common misconception. The upfront cost of indirect-fired heaters may be higher, but when you’re working on projects like hospitals or schools where clean air is critical, it’s a necessary investment. The added safety and air quality benefits far outweigh the cost, especially in enclosed or finished spaces. For clean, emission-free heat, indirect-fired heaters are a must.”
David Simkins
Director of Engineering and Technology | Polygon
MYTH
Collecting real-time data is only useful on large-scale projects.
"Data can help any size project because it offers 24/7 visibility and notifications. It helps identify patterns, catch problems early, and optimize performance—even on small projects. For example, we’ve used monitoring in small containments housing specialized materials and on shorter jobs to reduce energy consumption. We even use it for temporary layups to keep buildings stable for a few months. Real-time data can improve efficiency and reduce risk regardless of project size."
Jon Pattrin
Operations Manager - Digital Solutions | Polygon
MYTH
I will know when I have a leak.
“Leaks often don’t present obvious signs and may appear far from their actual source. When unnoticed, they can persist over time, increasing the risk of structural damage, material loss, and costly repairs. Proactive monitoring is essential for early detection and mitigation.”
David Simkins
Director of Engineering and Technology | Polygon
MYTH
Minor leaks are insignificant to the overall project.
“Even small leaks can lead to major issues over time—compromising materials, delaying schedules, and increasing costs. Without early intervention, what seems minor can quickly escalate into significant project setbacks.”
Jon Pattrin
Operations Manager - Digital Solutions | Polygon
MYTH
Reducing the temperature on the AC unit will help maintain a humidity spec.
"It is not usual for clients to try this. Dropping the temperature might temporarily reduce humidity while the AC coil is working harder. However, as the space comes down to the new setpoint the humidity will go up. You see cooler air can’t hold as much moisture because molecules that make up the air are closer together leaving less room for water molecules to remain suspended in the air. It may feel better at first, but it’s a short-term fix that often backfires."
David Simkins
Director of Engineering and Technology | Polygon
MYTH
Direct-fired heaters are the least expensive and most efficient option
"Direct-fired heaters offer 100% heating efficiency, due to the flame being in direct contact with the air it heats. This means that all the combustion byproducts end up in the airstream delivered into the space. Because of the combustion byproducts (CO and CO2), direct-fired heaters must only process outside air, which could introduce unpredictable amounts of moisture. Indirect-fired heaters are generally safer and cleaner than direct-fired heaters, as they can recirculate air without the risk of fume buildup.”
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