Crawl Space Myths: Out of Sight, Out of Mind, Right? Wrong!
Crawl Space Repair in Poca, WV
Honestly, my crawl space just doesn't cross my mind often.
Let's admit it, you may not think about your crawl space often, nor the problems that can stem from a musty one. Let's get into the facts and myths of crawl spaces and how you can avoid issues!
Myth 1: Insulating my crawl space is unnecessary.
Most believe since a crawl space is not a livable area, insulation is unnecessary. However, properly insulating crawl spaces has several benefits! Insulation helps to regulate temperatures - reducing heat increases in the summer and heat loss in the winter. In turn, preventing these two things can enhance energy efficiency and contribute to a more comfortable living environment throughout the entire house. For years, standard building practice was to insulate underneath the floor over a ventilated, unconditioned crawl space, but the better approach is to build a well-sealed, unventilated crawl space. Making it like a basement by sealing and insulating the foundation walls rather than the subfloor.
Myth 2: I have to have vents in my crawl space!
Most building codes require crawl space vents to aid in removing moisture in the area; however, many professionals are now recognizing that an unvented crawl space or a closed crawl space after proper moisture control are the best two options in homes for two reasons. First, ventilation in the winter is undesirable in order to keep crawl spaces warmer. Second, warm, moist outdoor air brought into the crawl space through foundation vents in the summer is often unable to dehumidify a crawl space.
Myth 3: My crawl space doesn't impact my indoor air quality.
FALSE! Crawl spaces can harbor mold, pests, and other pollutants that can find their way into the living spaces above. In fact, 50% of the air your family breaths on the first floor of your home comes directly from your crawl space! Addressing the moisture in the space by encapsulating can significantly improve indoor air quality, creating a healthier environment for you and your family.
Myth 4: Encapsulating my crawl space will be too much of a hassle to be worth it.
Crawl Space encapsulation is the process of sealing off the area from the outside environment. Some homeowners worry that the encapsulation will trap moisture and exacerbate problems. However, when done correctly and efficiently, encapsulation can effectively control moisture, prevent mold growth, and improve indoor air quality. Preventing these long-term problems in a one or two-day project will prevent months or years of problems down the road and ultimately increase property value.
Myth 5: I can DIY my crawl space solution.
In this day and age, DIY is extremely tempting, we get it!! However, crawl space maintenance is not an area to cut corners because of the long-term effects. Our professionals possess the expertise and knowledge to assess and address specific crawl space issues. We can recommend the best course of action tailored to your home's unique needs, ensuring you long-term success in maintaining a healthy crawl space.
Understanding the facts and myths about taking proper care of your crawl space and the added benefits that come along with it, will ensure you a healthier, more energy-efficient, and structurally sound home. Here at Alford Foundation and Crawl Space Repair, we offer FREE estimates. So why wait? One of our Solution Specialists will come out, inspect your property, clearly explain to you what is happening and how to fix it, then provide you with a quote. There is no obligation or cost for an estimate!