A crawlspace is a hollow area between the ground and first floor of your house. It’s aptly named because it is typically just 1 to 4 feet high and just big enough for a person to crawl in. Not all homes have crawlspaces, but those that do can develop various problems related to moisture. Water may get in through plumbing leaks, improper drainage, or vents, leading to mold, infestations by rodents and other pests (including termites, rats, snakes, etc.), and property damage.
Here’s how to keep a crawlspace dry to avoid these problems:
Improve Moisture Control
The best way to avoid moisture problems in your crawlspace is to direct water away from the foundation. Installing gutters or sloping soil away from your home can help. Encapsulating the crawlspace prevents heat and moisture from gathering and supporting the growth of mold that can cause wood foundations to rot. Sealing leaks and holes protects your crawlspace from moisture and can ultimately preserve structural integrity.
Insulate the Foundation
If you haven’t already, install at least 1.5 inches of waterproof membranes around your basement. All seams should be taped to prevent air or moisture penetration. Caulking them and insulating the rim joists helps as well.
Keep Your Crawlspace Clean
Conditions inside your crawlspace may be contributing to the problem. Exposed dirt floors can be sealed with polyethylene or another moisture retardant. After all, dirt floors invite humidity and bugs. If there’s already mold inside, hire a mold remediation specialist. And if there’s a stagnant pool of water in the crawlspace, a perimeter drain should be installed. Also, clean the inside of the crawlspace regularly to ensure it stays dry.
Ventilate the Crawlspace
There shouldn’t be any cracks or seams, no matter how small. They can allow mice, roaches, and other tiny pests in. But it is important to keep the area ventilated. Laminated water vapor barriers can help your crawlspace “breathe” while keeping pests and moisture out.
Insulate the Crawlspace
Insulation should be installed after water vapor barriers and vents have been installed. For example, fiberglass batts install easily between floor joists and are effective insulators. They can be paired with spray foam insulation to provide a tighter seal against air movement and heat transfer. For small nooks and crannies, spray foam may be enough to keep in warm air and block out cold. Temperature control in the crawlspace also helps improve the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Insulate the Crawlspace
Insulation should be installed after water vapor barriers and vents have been installed. For example, fiberglass batts install easily between floor joists and are effective insulators. They can be paired with spray foam insulation to provide a tighter seal against air movement and heat transfer. For small nooks and crannies, spray foam may be enough to keep in warm air and block out cold. Temperature control in the crawlspace also helps improve the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Install an Electric Fan
A fan works well as an alternative to a dehumidifier; just leave it at the crawlspace opening and turn it on for a while. Run it for several hours over a few days and the moisture level should decrease.
Has Your Home Been Damaged by Fire? Call Restorerz Today
Our experts know how to keep a crawlspace dry when your hard work hasn’t achieved the desired results. You’ll need a professional if water is entering your crawlspace due to a leaky pipe, heavy rain, flooding, or foundation problems or if mold or bacteria have built up. We are equipped to remove standing water, identify the source of the moisture, and remove debris and organic material. Industrial-grade dehumidifiers are used to dry the area out as well, while we can implement mold remediation procedures if necessary.
If you need your crawlspace dried or other measures taken, request service online or call Restorerz at 323-402-6165.