Crawl Space Encapsulation: Sealing
Considering that a significant portion of the air you breathe in your home comes directly from your crawl space, the majority of contractors today agree that your crawl space should be treated as an extension of your living space. In other words, it should be well-sealed, well-insulated, and well-ventilated.
Is it a good idea to seal a crawl space?
In conjunction with insulation, a sealed crawl space can save the homeowner approximately 18 percent on heating and cooling costs. As the likelihood of mold growth decreases, the likelihood of structural damage to the home decreases as well. This increases the longevity of the house and ensures that the quality of wooden surfaces is maintained.
Is it better to have gravel or plastic in your crawl space?
Placing gravel on top of crawl space plastic is, in our opinion, a bad idea. First and foremost, placing gravel on top of the plastic will not be effective. Gravel, particularly sharp gravel, has a greater likelihood of puncturing the plastic ground cover.
What is it that makes crawl space sealing so popular?
Crawlspace sealing is a popular solution for a variety of reasons, including avoiding pests, moisture issues, heating inefficiency, and more. However, it does have a few disadvantages that you should be aware of as you consider your next course of action.
What is the best way to get moisture out from underneath my house?
Make certain that the crawlspace has adequate ventilation. Fill in any low spots in the crawlspace with sand to make it more level. Cover the ground beneath the crawlspace with a layer of 6 mil or thicker plastic to protect it from water damage. Placing a layer of sand on top of the plastic will help to keep the plastic in place and will also help to absorb any excess moisture.
Is it worthwhile to have my crawl space sealed off?
Yes, that is something you should do. Crawl spaces should be completely sealed and isolated from the rest of the house, as well as from moisture in the air and ground.