Is It OK to Seal Off My Crawl Space
Is It OK to seal off my crawl space from the elements? The short answer is yes. But you don’t fix the crawl space moisture problem and create a crawl space odor or soil gas problem. Like most things in life, a balance is better than one extreme or the other.
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Sealed Crawl Space vs Vented
Are sealed crawl spaces better than vented ones? In my opinion, Yes! Sealed crawl spaces, when combined with proper dehumidification and ventilation, are a more controlled environment. Research shows sealed crawl spaces are more energy efficient and have better air quality as well. Just like you would never leave your doors and windows open with the heat or air conditioning running. Leaving the crawl space door and vents open to the outside can welcome unwanted pests and moisture problems.
Common Steps to Seal Your Crawl Space
What steps should I take to seal my crawl space? Crawl space encapsulation requires more than installing a vapor barrier. Every crawl space is different. Each crawl space presents unique problems that must come with a unique solution. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for crawl space repair. Here are 10 recommendations to sealing the crawl space and keeping it worry-free:
- Seal all vents but one. If you don’t have vents see step 2.
- Install a foundation vent fan in the open vent. Install a whisper fan if you do not have an open vent.
- Install an air-sealed and insulated door.
- Address mold if needed.
- Insulate properly if needed.
- Address standing water or flooding if needed.
- Install a dehumidifier if your crawl space humidity ever gets above 60%. Ideally 45% to 55% relative humidity is best.
- Install a vapor barrier to cover all floors, walls, and pillars for maximum moisture control.
- Perform maintenance on the dehumidifier and sumps pump semi-annually to annually.
- Inspect the crawl space for moisture and other issues semi-annually.
What Next?
Do you need help with mold removal, crawl space encapsulation, crawl space insulation, vapor barrier, waterproofing, foundation repair, or controlling humidity in your crawl space and you live in Georgia, Delaware, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio, or Kentucky? If so, please contact us to schedule your assessment. Also, let us know in the comments below if you have an idea for a new blog topic.
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