Moisture in Crawlspace: How To Deal With It?
A crawlspace is an essential part of a home that plays an important role in maintaining its structural health and stability. However, homeowners often neglect their crawlspaces, which makes them susceptible to water damage.
Water in the crawlspace is a common problem for many homes. It can result from inadequate drainage, plumbing leaks, or heavy rainfall. Excessive water in the crawlspace can lead to mold infestation, wood rot, increased utility bills, and many other problems. In this article, we will learn why moisture in the crawlspace is a major problem and how you can deal with it.
Why is Crawlspace Moisture a Problem?
There are three main reasons why water in the crawlspace is a major problem and why you should waterproof your crawlspace.
Crawlspace Moisture Can Generate Mold and Wood Rot
Humidity and moisture are primary sources of mold growth in your crawlspace. Increased humidity levels and the spread of mold spores can adversely affect indoor air quality. Wood in your crawlspace can also start rotting and cause termite damage.
Moisture Affects Your HVAC System
If your crawlspace has damp air, your HVAC system has to work harder to create a comfortable indoor environment, which increases the electricity costs and affects the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Water Can Sit in Your Crawlspace for a Long Time
The crawlspace is not frequently visited, so water leaks and flooding in it can go unnoticed for months or even years. Standing water underneath your house can cause significant structural and environmental damage.
How to Get Rid of Moisture in Crawlspace?
Here are some tips that you can follow to get rid of the moisture in your crawlspace.
1. Inspect the Damage
Look for small cracks and gaps in your crawlspace. Small critters, rodents, pests, and vermin can enter through these openings into your foundation. These insects chew on electrical wires and wooden structures in your home. In fact, a crack of only a ¼ inch is sufficient for a mouse to squeeze into your crawlspace. Therefore, keep a special check on the gaps and cracks in the walls and floors of your foundation, and if you notice any, make sure to contact reliable foundation repair services immediately.
2. Insulate Your Crawlspace
Sealing and insulating your crawlspace is important for keeping the moisture levels down and not letting the outside air enter your crawlspace. Outside air can enter through cracks in your crawlspace and gaps in windows and door frames. Since the air in your crawlspace circulates through your entire home, worn-out or damaged insulation will affect the indoor air quality. Additionally, it increases your energy costs as the hot and cold air can easily escape through it.
3. Install a Vapor Barrier
A vapor barrier is one of the most effective crawlspace moisture solutions. Exposed dirt floors allow moisture to enter your home, thereby increasing the humidity levels. Vapor barriers can play an important role in preventing moisture from seeping into your crawlspace. A high-quality vapor barrier will protect your crawl space from water and help you manage humidity levels.
4. Install a Dehumidifier
Moisture can build up in your crawlspace in winter and summer. To control humidity levels, install a dehumidifier. It collects excess moisture from your crawlspace to prevent mold growth. An efficient dehumidifier maintains the relative humidity in your crawlspace at 50-55%.
5. Position the Gutters Properly
Make sure the gutters and downspouts are unclogged and direct water away from your home; otherwise, the water will flow back when it rains. Regularly clean your gutters to keep them free of tree twigs, debris, and dirt so that they do not overflow. Moreover, reposition your downspouts to prevent backflow toward your home.
6. Seal the Vents
Although vents are designed to support airflow through your crawlspace, they can also function as access points for moisture. Air can seep in around these vents and worsen your crawlspace. Therefore, make sure to seal the vents correctly so that the air does not get in.
7. Resolve the Plumbing Problems
Leaky pipes can contribute to crawlspace moisture problems. Water dripping from broken pipes accumulates in your foundation, leading to mold growth and structural damage. Make sure to regularly review your home for plumbing leaks to prevent future problems.
8. Install a Sump Pump
Install a sump pump in your crawl space to protect your home from flooding. Install a battery backup sump pump so that the pump keeps working even in case of a power outage. Sump pumps are quite effective in collecting water before it can cause serious damage.
Call a Foundation Repair Expert for Assistance
Water can stay in your crawlspace for months, leading to mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage. To eradicate moisture from your crawlspace, take effective measures, such as encapsulation, dehumidification, sealing, and installing a sump pump. Call a crawlspace expert for professional assistance.
