9 Common Homeowner Issues Fixed by Crawl Space Encapsulation
- July 15, 2016
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Whether you know it or not, crawl spaces are found under many different types of homes. Crawl spaces are especially common in rambler and split-level style homes, in historical properties, and under additions for sunrooms, kitchen expansions, and other home expansions. It is important to address issues in the crawl space as it can adversely affect the quality of the living space above and, when severe enough, can even cause health concerns.
“Crawl Space Encapsulation” refers to a process by which waterproofing materials, sump pumps, insulation techniques, and vapor barriers are used to address moisture and conditioning issues. Crawl space ventilation is then put in place to control humidity and create a healthy, conditioned crawl space environment. This work is especially helpful in deal with issues during hot, humid summer weather.
Do you suspect you have issues in your crawl space? Not sure if crawl space encapsulation is right for you?
We’ve listed some of the most common homeowner problems that crawl space encapsulation is designed to address.
9 Common Crawl Space Problems Fixed by Encapsulation
1. Crawl Space Leaks and Flooding
Encapsulating your crawl space involves fixing foundation waterproofing problems to make sure it is safe, healthy, and does not propagate excess humidity or other problems listed below.
2. Musty or Unpleasant Smells
The air quality in many crawl spaces is typically less than ideal for many reasons: inadequate conditioning and potential exposure to rat waste, mold spores, wet soil, and other hazards. This air rises into your home and can lead to musty odors or other unpleasant smells. Proper conditioning and ventilation in the crawl space will mean greater comfort and air quality for you and your loved ones upstairs.
3. Damage to Wood Supports and Floors
Keeping moisture levels at bay leads to greater structural integrity in your flooring support. Encapsulation protects your home by discouraging damage to floor joists and supports.
4. Burst Pipes
Burst water pipes are a major concern in winter. With a properly insulated crawl space, your chances of experiencing a burst pipe during freezing temperatures decrease significantly.
5. Damage to Stored Items
Without proper treatment, items stored in the crawl space are vulnerable to water damage and mold. With a professional crawl space encapsulation, you can finally utilize that area for clean, dry storage space.
6. Cold Floors in Winter
With crawl space insulation, your home will be more comfortable in the winter. Cold floors are a symptom of a crawl space that is not property conditioned.
7. High Air Conditioning and Heating Bills
Many homeowners are surprised at the increased energy efficiency of their homes after crawl space encapsulation. In cold months, cold outside air is blocked from entering the crawl space, reducing your heat loss and your heating bills. During the summer, hot air is blocked from entering the crawl space, allowing your air conditioning to run more efficiently and lower cooling costs. This also reduces the cost of HVAC appliances since it decreases the stress put on the system.
8. Pest Control
When you seal your crawl space professionally, you are discouraging the formation of entry and exit paths for rodents and insects. You can worry less about spiders, termites, mice, and other pests gaining access to your space and creating an unhygienic environment.
9. Headaches When Selling Your Home
Crawl space encapsulation can help avoid a huge headache you are selling your home. Make sure that your home passes a home inspection and turn what is typically a sore spot for seller into a fantastic selling point.
Whether you are seeking to get rid of musty smells, lower utility bills, have more useable space, or all of the above, crawl space encapsulation is the way to go. Ensure the job gets done right by calling the crawl space experts at Value Dry. We’ll custom-design your job for your home and stand by all of of our work with our warranties.