Living in Florida, most homeowners want to ensure their home has consistent temperatures to battle the humidity and higher temperatures we experience. Unfortunately, if you are dealing with inconsistent temperatures throughout your home, your crawlspace could be the contributing factor. Up to 50% of household air flows from your crawlspace and if you have an unenclosed crawlspace, it could be letting cool air outside. We breakdown what to expect with crawlspace encapsulation, its benefits, and how to care for your crawlspace below!
What is Crawlspace Encapsulation?
Crawlspace enclosure is similar to adding a pool liner to avoid leaks, it looks to keep air in! Water vapor will enter your crawlspace from the ground and seep through the cement, when this happens excess moisture is created. Increased moisture can cause a host of problems, including pests, bad air quality, mold and mildew that results in rot, wrapped floors, and structural damage. With encapsulation, a moisture barrier or vapor barrier is installed on the floor and walls of your crawlspace. This barrier helps to keep moisture out altogether.
What Are Crawlspace Encapsulation Benefits?
There are several benefits to investing in crawlspace encapsulation, including:
- Improved air quality throughout your home
- Avoiding a pest infestation
- Helps create a comfortable living environment
- Increases energy efficiency
- Provides consistent temperatures
- Less wear and tear on your heating and cooling systems
- Eliminates moisture to help decrease fungus, mold, and structural damage
How Can I Keep My Crawlspace Healthy?
There are several ways to ensure your crawlspace is healthy. Consider the following do-it-yourself tips and tricks:
- Replace loose mortar found around your home’s foundation
- Replace weatherstripping around your windows and doors
- Eliminate excess moisture by repairing leaky faucets and clearing clogged drains
- Seal exterior cracks or holes to keep pests from entering
- Eliminate additional food supplies and hiding places for pests and wildlife, including woodpiles stored near your home.
- Call a professional pest control company to enclose your crawlspace to help eliminate moisture issues and improve the air quality
