The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that up to half the air circulating through your house could be coming from below your feet. This startling fact underscores why maintaining a clean, dry crawl space is crucial for your family's health.
But the benefits don't stop at air quality. The U.S. Department of Energy has found that properly encapsulating your crawl space can lead to significant energy savings. You might see your utility bills drop by as much as one-fifth – a welcome relief in these days of rising energy costs. And the best part? You can do it yourself and save thousands of dollars in the process. Ready to start DIY crawl space encapsulation? We’ll cover the benefits, as well as the instructions for doing it.
What is Crawl Space Encapsulation?
Crawl space encapsulation involves sealing your crawl space with a heavy-duty moisture barrier, insulating the walls, and sometimes even installing a dehumidifier. This process helps keep moisture out, reduces the risk of mold growth, and can make your home more energy-efficient. But why is this so important? Let’s find out!
Why You Should Encapsulate Your Crawl Space
1. Prevent Mold and Mildew
Moisture in your crawl space can lead to mold and mildew, which can cause health problems like allergies and respiratory issues. Mold can also weaken the structural integrity of your home. Encapsulation helps keep moisture levels in check, preventing these issues before they start.
2. Improve Air Quality
A sealed crawl space reduces the number of allergens and pollutants entering your home. Since about 50% of the air you breathe in your home can rise up from your crawl space, keeping it clean and dry is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality.
3. Save on Energy Bills
By preventing cold air from entering your home, crawl space encapsulation can reduce your heating costs. Insulation and moisture barriers keep your home’s temperature more stable, leading to lower energy consumption and cost savings of up to 20%.
4. Increase Home Value
A well-maintained crawl space can add to your home's overall value. Prospective buyers will appreciate the added benefits of a dry, energy-efficient crawl space, potentially increasing your home’s value by up to 10%.
Now, we’ll go over how to encapsulate a crawl space in more detail.
DIY Crawl Space Encapsulation: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Assess Your Crawl Space
Before starting, inspect your crawl space for any existing damage or issues. Check for standing water, mold, or pests. If you find significant problems, you may need to address these first. This might include repairing leaks, removing mold, or calling in pest control services.
2. Gather Your Supplies
You'll need:
1. Heavy-duty moisture barrier (at least 20 mils thick)
2. Double-sided tape
3. Insulation material
4. Dehumidifier (optional but recommended)
5. Measuring tape
6. Utility knife
7. Protective gear (gloves, goggles, mask)
8. Waterproof tape
9. Crawl space door seal
10. Vapor barrier seam tape
3. Clean and Prepare the Area
Remove any debris, old insulation, or plastic sheeting from the crawl space. Make sure the area is as clean and dry as possible. If there is any standing water, pump it out and allow the area to dry completely. A dry, clean crawl space is essential for the moisture barrier to adhere properly.
4. Install the Moisture Barrier
Measure and cut the moisture barrier to fit the floor and walls of your crawl space. Use double-sided tape to secure the barrier to the walls, making sure to overlap seams by at least 12 inches. Seal all seams with waterproof tape to ensure a tight seal. Don’t forget to cover any support columns and piers.
5. Insulate the Walls
Install insulation on the crawl space walls to further prevent heat loss. Use insulation material that is suitable for below-grade applications, and secure it with adhesive or mechanical fasteners. Foam board insulation is a popular choice due to its durability and moisture resistance.
6. Seal the Crawl Space Door
A properly sealed crawl space door is crucial to keep out moisture and pests. Install a door seal to ensure there are no gaps or leaks. You can use weatherstripping or a custom-fit door to achieve an airtight seal.
7. Optional: Install a Dehumidifier
For extra moisture control, consider installing a dehumidifier in your crawl space. This will help maintain low humidity levels and prevent mold growth. Choose a dehumidifier that is specifically designed for crawl spaces for the best results.
8. Inspect and Maintain
Regularly check your encapsulated crawl space for any signs of moisture or damage. Perform maintenance as needed to ensure it remains effective. This might include reapplying tape to any seams that have come loose, or cleaning the dehumidifier filter.
Additional Tips and Tricks
Lighting: Install battery-operated or low-voltage lighting to make inspections and maintenance easier.
Pest Control: Use pest control measures such as traps or repellents to keep rodents and insects out of your crawl space.
Humidity Monitoring: Install a hygrometer to monitor the humidity levels in your crawl space. Aim to keep humidity levels below 60% to prevent mold growth.
Check for Leaks: Regularly check for any plumbing leaks that could introduce moisture into your crawl space.
Now you have a clean, dry, encapsulated crawl space ready to protect your home from moisture damage.
Your Path to a Healthier Home
By following these steps, you can effectively encapsulate your crawl space and enjoy the benefits of a healthier, more energy-efficient home. Not only will you save money on professional services, but you'll also add value to your home and protect it from moisture-related issues. Have any questions about crawl space encapsulation? Visit AlorAirCrawlspace and check out our extensive line of crawlspace dehumidifiers.
