For years, homes were constructed with ventilated crawl spaces that were open to the hot, humid Bradfordville weather conditions, often with no more vapor barrier protection than a simple, unsecured plastic sheet. However, modern building practices seem to show that these vented crawl spaces can cause more problems than anticipated: bad indoor air quality, allergies and other heightened sensitivities to molds and mildews, rot and decay of essential structural elements, more insects and pests, and lower energy efficiency due to damp, ineffective insulation. Your crawl space can be considered a sort of ‘secret’ room underneath your house, as it conceals many moisture-related issues since it’s rarely entered.
Since crawl space encapsulation entails manifold aspects, it’s better left to the experts, like Tony Kelly Heating and Air Conditioning. Here’s what you need to expect from crawl space experts:
Debris removal from the crawl space
Professionals won’t be able to begin the encapsulation process until they’ve cleaned out the crawl space, totally free of all debris. There could be several different items to clean out before repairs can be made due to moisture damage. For example, aside from moldy insulation and rotten wood, mold on support beams and walls may need to be cleared, along with animal remains. This not only prepares the space for waterproofing solutions but makes it immediately healthier.
Regrade the Soil and Install Drainage
Once this debris is removed, the next step is regrading the dirt floors common to Bradfordville crawl spaces. This helps in the quick dissipation of any water that may be standing or is captured in the soil towards the edges of the foundation. After this, a crawl space drain system is set up, which captures and diverts groundwater for long-term protection from water buildup.
Sump Pump Installation and Sealing Open Vents
The next step after drainage installation includes the installation of a sump pump, which provides extra security in the case of rising water levels. A sump pump operates very well with or without a drainage system. Another important task is sealing open vents, as these openings allow outside humidity into your foundation.
Insulate Walls, Install Vapor Barrier, and Dehumidify
The final steps of crawl space encapsulation are wall insulation to better maintain temperature and reduce humidity. Then, a 20-mil thick vapor barrier is installed, covering the entire crawl space to prevent groundwater and outside humidity from entering. Finally, a high-performance dehumidifier is added to ensure continuous moisture control and protection against water vapor.
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Encapsulation is crucial in the homes of Bradfordville, Florida, mainly because homeowners face above-average rainfall and humidity levels. With the high moisture levels, crawl spaces are more prone to problems such as mold or wood rot. This makes encapsulation a worthy investment, as it protects your home against structural damage while also improving health by preventing mold growth, pest infestations, and musty odors. Quite simply, encapsulation provides an all-around boost in quality of life.