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Crawlspace Encapsulation and its Benefits

Albert

It should come as no surprise that the air we breathe has a major impact on our health. The same applies to the air inside your home. Previously, we’ve touched upon the stack or chimney effect, which is a phenomenon that causes warmer air to rise through your home while cooler air remains below. This effect extends to basements and crawlspaces, which, let’s be honest, are typically the areas we neglect the most.


But what exactly is a crawlspace, and why do some homes have them while others don’t? Crawlspaces are a key feature of pier-and-beam foundations. They are empty spaces between the ground and the floor of your home, typically 1 to 2 feet in height. Their main purpose is to provide easy access under your home for installing and repairing utilities, while also offering extra protection in case of flooding.


While they serve their purpose, crawlspaces can also be a source of various issues. With cooler air remaining in these spaces and moisture accumulating, mold can grow, and the area can become an inviting environment for insect or rodent infestations. The accumulation of moisture can also lead to soil expansion, which, in turn, can negatively affect the foundation itself.


And it all circles back to the air we breathe around our house. The warmer air rises from the crawlspace and may carry with it mold particles and musty odors that could trigger mild to severe allergy attacks or other long-lasting respiratory complications.


We’ve discussed various options for keeping your crawlspace (and basement) in good condition, such as dehumidifiers, sump pumps, regular check-ups, and maintenance, as well as other additional services. However, today we are going to talk about crawlspace encapsulation.



What is Crawlspace Encapsulation?Crawlspace encapsulation involves completely covering the crawlspace, including the foundation walls, floors, and sometimes the ceiling. This is achieved by placing a heavy-duty polyethylene barrier. Essentially, it works like the lining of a swimming pool, preventing any leaks. Sealing tape is used to connect the barrier pieces, and you can always add a dehumidifier to help regulate moisture levels.

Encapsulating your crawlspace provides many benefits and solutions to the issues mentioned earlier.


Benefits of Crawlspace Encapsulation:

  • Improved Air Quality - Encapsulating the crawlspace creates a moisture-proof barrier that protects your home from mildew, mold growth, and bad odors, thereby keeping the air clean. As this clean air circulates throughout your home, it contributes to a healthier living environment.

  • Keeps Pests Away - The encapsulation creates an unattractive environment for pests, making it less likely that bugs, rodents, and other wood-destroying organisms will infest and damage the wood beneath your house.

  • Protects Your Foundation - By controlling moisture levels and preventing leaks, the soil under your home is less likely to become saturated with water, which could lead to foundation damage. Essentially, you are reinforcing the structural integrity of your home.

  • Lower Repair Expenses - Encapsulating the crawlspace will protect it from various forms of damage, which can significantly decrease the likelihood of costly repairs in the future.

  • Increased Lifespan of Ductwork and HVAC Systems - Ductwork, a critical component of your HVAC system, will last longer in an encapsulated space compared to being exposed to the elements.

  • Increased Energy Efficiency & Lower Utility Bills - Sealing the crawlspace provides an insulating layer that helps maintain a consistent temperature year-round. This means less reliance on heating and air conditioning, resulting in lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills.

  • Longer-Lasting Floors - Moisture seeping into the floors can cause them to rot or become unstable. As mentioned earlier, encapsulating the crawlspace helps combat moisture, preserving your floors and extending their lifespan.

  • A More Comfortable Home - A warmer, cozier home in winter and a cooler home in summer, all thanks to crawlspace encapsulation. What more could you ask for?

  • Increased Property Value - An encapsulated crawlspace adds value to your property, making it more appealing to potential buyers. It offers peace of mind and can potentially increase the market value of your home.


As you can see, there are many benefits to encapsulating your crawlspace. It is a highly effective way to protect your home from many potential issues while improving air quality, energy efficiency, and extending the lifespan of key systems, all while adding long-term value to your property. If you haven’t already considered crawlspace encapsulation, it’s definitely worth the investment for the peace of mind and benefits it provides to both your home and your family.

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