What is Crawl Space Encapsulation?
Understanding Why Crawl Space Encapsulation May Be Right For Your Home
You can count on two things as the weather warms up from spring into summer. First, there will be more rain, and most likely quite a bit. Secondly, the air will become more humid and muggy in many places. Therefore, if you have a crawlspace in your home, chances are there is going to be a lot of additional moisture building up. As a result, you may experience water damage and higher energy bills. A solution to consider is crawl space encapsulation. You may have never heard of it, but it is an effective method of eliminating moisture. Let’s take a look at how it works and its benefits.
What Can Happen If You Ignore Your Crawlspace?
Out of sight, out of mind is a phrase that comes to mind often when thinking of crawlspaces. Sadly, it is often forgotten and left alone until problems arise. It is important to understand that if left unchecked, moisture in your crawlspace can lead to:
- Musty, damp odors
- Increased pest activity
- Cracks in your foundation
- Mold growth on floors, walls, drywall, etc.
- Increased energy costs
- Condensation on windows
- Issues with sub-flooring
All of these issues can sneak up on you, and before you realize it, you have a costly repair situation on your hands. For these reasons, it is a very good idea to consider crawl space encapsulation.
What is the Process of Crawl Space Encapsulation?
There are several steps to crawl space encapsulation. Generally, this project can be completed in a few days and is well worth the time spent.
- One of ECP’s installing contractors will provide you will an inspection to assess your needs.
- Clean up old insulation, fix any cracks, remove moisture, and eliminate pests.
- Spray foam insulation is applied.
- ECP’s crawl space vapor barrier is applied to the entire crawlspace.
- Gaps are located and fastened with adhesive tapes or fasteners.
- An ECP dehumidifier controls moisture, keeping your home’s air dry and moisture-free.
The ECP crawl space vapor barrier is a high-performance barrier designed to prevent moisture from entering the crawl space. The ECP 12mil and 20mil vapor barriers guard against mold, mildew, allergens, fungus, radon gas, methane gas, heat loss due to damp insulation, wood rot, and overall degradation of the crawl space.
Improved Crawlspace, Improved Home
Aside from eliminating all the symptoms we mentioned above, crawl space encapsulation will also provide your home with more structural integrity. It is part of a healthier foundation plan. Once completed, this process will leave you with a safer, drier, and stronger home for years to come. If you are interested in crawl space encapsulation for your home, then ECP can connect you with one of our professional installers here to get started with an inspection today!