Many homes in Middle Tennessee have crawl spaces, a small 1-3’ area between the first floor and the ground. This provides easier access to electrical and plumbing than a traditional slab foundation. Also, crawl spaces are much easier on the joints than a slab.
Crawl spaces are frequently vented to reduce moisture in the home. And ALL of Middle Tennessee has humidity, particularly during the hot summer months. However, some crawl spaces collect moisture.
How can you tell if you have moisture in your crawl space? Why does it matter? What can you do if you do have moisture in the crawl space?
How to Know If You Have Moisture
There are a few tell-tale indicators of moisture collecting in the crawl space of your house. The first is pretty easy… do you have standing water in your crawl space? Grab a flashlight and peek under the house if you suspect you might. More obvious indicators without getting down on the ground include spotting water stains on your foundation walls, mold-like growths, water spots on insulation, walls or woodwork in the home, buckling hardwood floors, or breathing challenges, such as an increased or more severe reaction of allergies or asthma. If you suspect you have moisture in your crawl space, reach out to Columbia CrawlSpace for a free inspection and estimate.
Why Does Moisture Matter?
A dry house is a healthy house. Moisture can cause the structure itself (wooden joists, floorboards, insulation, and more) to deteriorate at an accelerated rate. Additionally, moisture in the crawl space can lead to increases in both heating and cooling utility bills. Your house is your biggest financial investment. Protect it. And while it’s important to protect your financial investment, it’s even more critical to protect your health and the health of your family.
Moisture in the crawl space can contribute to mold in the floors, walls, and ductwork, affecting the very air you and your family breathe.
As a damp, dark place, a crawl space is just the kind of area all sorts of insects are attracted to. And insects attract spiders. Other vermin such as rats, raccoons, and opossums also like to set up shop in a moist, dark environment.
Repairing Moisture in a Crawl Space
Moisture control in the crawl space is critical to the wellbeing of your family and home. And high-quality professional remediation at a fair price is important. Contact Columbia CrawlSpace to learn about crawl space encapsulation services. We will only recommend the necessary steps for your specific case. Those services may include:
- Crawl space encapsulation (sealing)
- Vapor barrier
- Dry air system
- Drains
- Dehumidifiers
- Insulation
Call 931-982-5310, email info@columbiacrawlspace.com, or fill out our online form for a free inspection and estimate to keep your house and family healthy and safe.
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