Custom Weatherization, LLC is a quickly growing company. It was established in 2006 and has been providing energy efficiency services to both residential and commercial properties ever since!

Crawlspace Moisture

Is It Okay for Water to be in a Crawlspace

There are several ways water may get into a crawlspace. However, water in a crawlspace is never a good thing. It is important that the problem be found and addressed immediately. Crawlspaces are usually harder to access and a place where occupants don’t usually go. Because of this, crawlspaces are often neglected and forgotten about.  Water in a crawlspace can cause rot to the joist and beams. Water can cause mold, mildew and other hazardous problems. A good clean, dry crawlspace can lead to a healthy home and good indoor air quality.

Crawlspace Wet Moisture Water

Water in a Crawlspace

How does Water get in a Crawlspace

The source of the moisture or water in the crawlspace may be contributed by one or many different factors. Water can enter the crawlspace if the grading around your home is pitched in a way that allows water to flow towards the home. Typically water may find its way inside the crawlspace through any cracks or gaps in the foundation. Depending on the climate that you live in, sometimes water getting in the crawlspace is inevitable. To counter act this, a sump pump is installed to keep the water out of the crawlspace. If the pump is broken, power is interrupted or pipe is disconnected then water may be have a means to be removed from the crawlspace allowing water to accumulate. 

Crawlspace Vents

Most crawlspaces have foundation vents which are meant to allow outside air to enter in attempts to keep the crawlspace dry. During the winter season these crawlspace vents are designed to be closed with they theory that cold air is more dry and to not allow cold air to enter the crawlspace and potentially freeze plumbing pipes. During the summer months the theory is to open the crawlspace vents to allow outside air to ventilate the crawlspace. The problem with this approach is the warm outside air once introduced to the crawlspace air may condense potentially causing rot, mold and mildew.

Gutter and Down Spouts

Ensure gutters are clean and down spouts are extended away from home.

Plumbing Leaks

Visually inspect crawlspace for plumbing leaks. Be sure to check drains as well.

Sump Pump

Ensure that the sump pump is in working condition and discharging to outside.

Repair Any Foundation Cracks

Foundation gaps or cracks should be repaired or filled once observed.

Create a Dry, Healthy Crawlspace

Seal and Insulate

In more recent studies building scientists have decided that crawlspaces today, should be sealed and insulated. In addition, a quality vapor barrier should be installed to keep control of the moisture. Sealing the crawlspace will limit the need to figure out whether vents should be open or closed and when. It limits air from entering the crawlspace and condensing on different surfaces. It keeps water from entering the crawlspace and potentially creating mold and other harmful hazards. 

Remember the air in the crawlspace naturally rises into the home. This is the air we breath as occupants. The attempt for good indoor air quality starts with clean non hazardous air in the crawlspace. 

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