Crawl Space Encapsulation
You probably don’t look at what’s going on down there if your house has a crawl space. Crawl spaces are typically dark, filthy, and filled with insects and bugs. But what if we tell you there’s a means to not only keep your crawl space clean and dry, but at the same time enhance the air quality in your home?
Crawl space encapsulation helps in the removal of moisture, pests, mold, and mildew from underneath your property. Continue reading to find out more about how this works and why you need it.
What Is Crawl Space Encapsulation?
Crawl space encapsulation is a common technique for preventing indoor moisture problems. Encapsulation is similar to the liner used in swimming pools to prevent leakage.
A heavy-duty polyethylene barrier is installed to completely cover your crawl space, which normally includes the flooring, foundation walls, and even the ceiling. Water vapor barrier works best when it completely covers your crawl space. Sealing tape is used to link the barrier pieces.
The next step is to manage the air to keep a healthy humidity level. To do this, install a dehumidifier in your crawl space. The barrier and dehumidifier work together to protect the crawl space from excess moisture and the issues that come with it.
Why Do You Need To Encapsulate Crawl Spaces?
Keep your crawl space clean & dry as possible because up to 50% of your household air flows to it. Installing a crawl space vapor barrier and dehumidifier is usually regarded as the most effective technique to enhance indoor air quality and make energy savings within your house.
Water vapor penetrates the crawl space from the ground (even through cement), that’s why many homeowners choose to enclose their crawl space.
The Benefits Of Creating A Vapor Barrier
- Improved air quality in your crawl space and throughout your house.
- It creates an unfriendly environment for pests and wood-destroying insects.
- A more pleasant living circumstance.
- Prevent fungi/mold problems & structural damage.
- Improved household energy efficiency
Who Needs a Crawl Space Encapsulation?
Excess moisture and water vapor can cause a variety of issues in your house. Moisture from the ground can seep through the foundation and into your home because water vapor can flow through porous cement.
The following are some of the most common reasons why homeowners decide to enclose their crawl space:
- Floors that are soft or separating
- Window condensation
- Mold, mildew, and musty odor
- Expensive cooling costs
- Wet Insulation
- Insect problems
Encapsulating a crawl space is a great idea for those whose home has one. The pest protection alone is worth it, and the enhanced energy efficiency will pay for the installation over time.
If you are living in humid places near bodies of water or at sea level, it is important to encapsulate your crawl spaces. The ground surrounding your home typically has more moisture, and the increased air humidity will make it a lot easier for mold and mildew to develop.
Things to Consider:
A number issues might happen if your crawl space is not properly encapsulated and sealed:
- Water issues. Before enclosing a crawl space, all long-term bulk water concerns must be addressed. Look for sitting water or water stains on foundation walls.
- If there is any combustion equipment in the crawl space, you must consider any potential back-drafting.
- Termite control companies could also impose limitations on how much of your crawl space may be encapsulated, so consult with them first before starting on an encapsulation job, especially if you have an active termite bond.
