Crawl space encapsulation is an important and often overlooked component of any crawl space or basement renovation project. Encapsulation will help reduce mold and pest growth in your crawl space, protect your home from any water damage from excess moisture, and keep your foundation safe from rodents who may be seeking shelter within the walls of your home. Keep reading to learn more about crawl space encapsulation and how it can help improve the safety and stability of your home’s foundation.
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Crawl Space Encapsulation Basics
The crawl space encapsulation process involves installing a vapor barrier and lining it with a drainage mat. A drainage mat is important because it will direct water through a foundation drain where it can be expelled from your home and keep humidity levels low. With a foundation that’s protected from outside elements, your home is in much better shape.
The encapsulation process will also protect your home from dangerous mold and mildew growth, which can damage your structure. Keeping your foundation dry is critical to preventing outside damage as well as protecting your health. Foundation pests are also common in crawl spaces because of damp conditions and non-existent insulation.
The most important thing to remember about crawl space encapsulation is that it’s an investment in your home and your health. The right encapsulation can protect you from pest damage, make your home more comfortable, and prevent structural issues due to water damage.
Reduces Air Infiltration
The majority of crawl space issues come from indoor air seeping into basement spaces. For most homeowners, an encapsulated crawl space does an excellent job of sealing up their foundation so that as little cold, hot and/or humid air can pass through as possible. If your home is particularly drafty, you may need to use caulk in combination with a polyurethane sealant to make sure every inch of your crawl space is sealed tight.
If you don’t have a vapor barrier in your crawl space and have issues with condensation, you can also take advantage of a vapor barrier as part of your encapsulation project. These sheets will help keep any air that enters through cracks or small gaps in your foundation from getting into your home—and causing mold and mildew to grow.
Most encapsulation systems also include a layer of insulation between your home and your crawl space. Not only does an insulated crawl space keep you warm in winter and cool in summer, but it can also help reduce energy costs.
Reduces Harmful Moisture
When water and moisture is allowed to soak into a crawl space, it can cause serious structural damage to your home. This includes fungal growth on your walls, crumbling foundation blocks, and dangerous mold infestations. Mold spores can travel through your home, causing respiratory problems and allergic reactions in anyone who breathes them in. Fortunately, you can ensure these problems don’t plague your home by investing in a crawl space encapsulation system.
Using a crawl space encapsulation system will seal off your crawl space and keep moisture out, while keeping mold spores in. A well-sealed crawl space also means that excess water won’t be able to flood your basement in case of heavy rain. If you live in an area where it is prone to heavy rainfall, then proper encapsulation is absolutely necessary for keeping your home safe from structural damage.
The integrity of your foundation is one of its most important features. If there are gaps in a basement wall or cracks in an interior foundation wall, these flaws could eventually result in structural damage to your home’s frame; water penetration can also compromise structural support over time. Crawl space encapsulation helps prevent water from seeping into your crawl space through vents or cracks around floor joists.
Your crawl space encapsulation system can include a dehumidifier, which will help you control humidity levels within your crawl space and keep mold growth to a minimum. Some systems even provide air purification for your crawl space, making it easier to breath without having to worry about coming into contact with mold spores or being exposed to airborne pollutants. Reducing moisture in your crawl space is essential for protecting your family’s health.
Vastly Improves Indoor Air Quality
As time goes on, your crawl space can be a major source of airborne pollutants. Mold is a common problem that affects many homes; it grows most often when there is excessive moisture, poor ventilation and a lack of adequate light. Enclosed crawl spaces with dehumidifiers reduce humidity levels in your home and keep mold at bay.
A well-sealed crawl space also reduces airborne dust particles, allergens and other harmful substances like radon. With a crawl space that’s completely sealed from your home, you can create a healthier living environment for you and your family.
If you or anyone in your home suffers from allergies, asthma or other respiratory issues, you may want to consider taking preventative measures to protect your health. Enclosed crawl spaces are a great way to keep pollutants out of your indoor air and keep your family safe.
The Hidden Value of Crawl Space Encapsulation
Although many homeowners feel that encapsulating their crawl space is unnecessary, it is, in fact, one of the best ways to protect your home from moisture problems. Without proper encapsulation, water from outside sources may seep into your crawl space and create humidity within. This humidity can cause damage to your foundation and other components in your home’s structure.
According to Home Advisor the average cost to encapsulate a crawl space is between $1,500 and $15,000. This expense usually isn’t covered by homeowners insurance, however when you consider all the benefits, it’s easy to see the value of encapsulating a crawl space.
Your home’s foundation supports your entire structure and will begin to crumble if it becomes too moist or weak. Without proper encapsulation keeping water out of your crawl space, seepage may cause structural damage that can be costly to repair or replace. Additionally the excessive moisture can lead to a number of health issues. One potential issue is mold growth which is more common in crawl spaces with poor ventilation. Mold spores are tiny particles that float through air and can even enter your home through air vents. Keep these things in mind when you’re debating encapsulating your crawl space.
