Crawl Space Encapsulation
Excess moisture problems are widespread in houses with crawl spaces. If your crawl space is dry, consider yourself fortunate. Crawl spaces are generally damp spaces. It’s not unheard of to have moisture levels of over 70% during the summer months. If the wood moisture content in your crawl space is over 18%, you are susceptible to wood rot and mold growth.
A Multitude of Factors can Cause Moisture Problems in Crawl Spaces.
The main contributing factors to damp crawl spaces includes:
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The ductwork in the crawl space produces condensation during the summer months.
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High groundwater levels during rainy seasons.
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Poor lot drainage allows water to flow into the crawl space.
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Undetected plumbing drain leaks that allow water to settle inside the crawl space.
A Damp Crawl Space can Cause the Following Issues:
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Foundation cracks form when the house settles. Settlement typically occurs when wet soil compacts, soil erosion, or poor perimeter drainage.
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Termites and other wood-destroying organisms are attracted to damp areas and moist wood. Damp crawl spaces are a perfect environment for these organisms to thrive.
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High heating and cooling costs are common in homes with damp crawl spaces because the HVAC systems have to work harder to achieve the desired comfort level.
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Windows sweating on the interior in homes with damp crawl spaces. This is because damp, humid air from the crawl space rises to the home’s interior, condensates on the windows caused by radiant heating.
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