Unless you live in stilt built house, your home’s foundation is going to be a concrete slab, a vented crawl space or a basement, depending on environmental conditions and local building codes. One big advantage of a home with a crawl space is it provides an access point to the mechanical, electrical and plumbing hookups for repairs, general maintenance and additional installations. Homes are often constructed with crawl spaces because of high moisture concerns and a crawl space allows the residence to be built off the ground and safe from standing water. Encapsulation can help further.
Because it is dirty, damp and dark homeowners often take an “out of sight, out of mind” attitude. But, when it comes to crawlspace maintenance, ignoring it can create a host of problems including:
- mold and mildew growth
- insect, rodent and pest infestations
- foundation damage
- poor indoor air quality
- excessive heating costs and high interior humidity which can lead to sweating windows, wet insulation and hardwood floor damage.
What is crawl space encapsulation?
That’s why we recommend professional encapsulation of your crawl space. Encapsulation means the crawl space floor and walls and are covered with a heavy duty vapor barrier material. Before installing a vapor barrier correct any foundation issues, excess moisture concerns and pest problems. The barrier is secure by attachment to the foundation walls and ceiling piers. Any gaps around HVAC, mechanical, electrical and plumbing components use spray foam to seal. In some crawlspaces it may be necessary to install a dehumidifier or exhaust fan system in order to control high humidity. For homes with an active termite bond it is important that continuous points are in place in order to facilitate yearly termite inspections without having to disturb the encapsulation.
Homes built over a crawlspace are healthier once encapsulation is in place. The barriers prevent airborne biological contaminants from entering the living space. They also lessen the risk of mold, mildew, rodents and pests from causing potentially expensive and hazardous problems.
Have concerns about your home’s crawl space? Scout’s Pest Control will be happy to answer them. Please contact us today at 864-469-9999 for a complimentary inspection.
