The crawl space is sometimes a place in our homes that we neglect. However, it can be the source of quite a few issues and if you don’t often check on the space, you might be blindsided by a gross or expensive problem. Don’t ignore your crawl space! Not only can it be the site of many issues, a well-kept space can also be the source of a lot of savings and benefits. Here are some reasons why you should make your crawl space clean, dry, and tidy.
- Clean Air – Much of the air we breathe in our homes rises up from the crawl space so keeping it clean is key to improve air quality. If you have dampness, you could be breathing in mold spores. If critters and pests have infiltrated the space, the air could contain dander or excrement particles. These irritants can be especially harmful if you live with someone very young, very old, or someone with respiratory issues. By keeping the space clean and dry, you lower the amount of pollutants that are in the air you and your loved ones breathe each day.
- Damage from Dampness – when it rains, water drains to the lowest point, and for some places, that could mean your crawl space. If water enters the space, it can cause a myriad of issues including mold, mildew, rotten wood, and foundational problems. To prevent moisture from entering your crawl space, give it a good cleaning and then have it encapsulated. This creates a vapor barrier and greatly reduces the chance of the space getting damp.
- Lower Energy Bill – to keep your space dry, you can encapsulate it. This improves heating in the winter by keeping cold air out of your home. In summer your cooling will improve as well because the encapsulation will reduce the amount of humidity in the air. Your energy bill for heating and cooling could be reduced by 25%
- Eliminate Pests – if your space is clean and dry, it will be less hospitable and less accessible to pests. Termites, mice, rats, and other pests might want to call your crawl space home. However, if you keep the space tidy, it will be easier to find and eliminate them. If you take steps to encapsulate the space, it will be that much harder for insects and other pests to enter.
The easiest way to have a clean, dry crawl space is to have it encapsulated. So what exactly is crawl space encapsulation?
This is when a heavy-duty moisture barrier is installed within the crawl space. It looks like a big plastic sheet but it covers the floor and walls of the space. The most effective encapsulation includes walls that have been insulated and foundation vents that have been sealed. A crawl space dehumidifier should also be placed there to eliminate as much moisture as possible. The space should be completely encapsulated for best results and hiring a professional company to do the job is a smart choice.
The average cost of encapsulation is around $5,000 depending on how big the space is and what features are included. While this may sound like a lot of money, it will pay for itself in the long run. Lower energy bills, better air quality, less damage caused by dampness, and overall better health of your home are all things that are worth putting money into. Now is a great time to call Tidewater Home Improvement and ask about crawl space encapsulation. Our highly-trained team is here to talk to you about what encapsulation would look like for your needs, your home, and your budget. We are ready to answer any questions you may have. Give Tidewater Home Improvement a call today!
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