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Crawl space encapsulation is a sealing technique that involves lining the foundation walls and the floor with overlapping sheets of thick polyethylene plastic. This creates an airtight vapor barrier that locks moisture out of this subfloor area.
Should a crawl space be encapsulated?
Moisture in your crawl space will only lead to structural damage over time. The vapor within the crawl space can rot your home’s wooden frames and flooring. Encapsulating the crawl space keeps away moisture. In addition, encapsulation helps keep dangerous pests like termites out.
Is crawl space encapsulation worth the cost?
Crawl space encapsulation cost is not cheap but is worth the money, effort, and time. You will save money on your energy bills, decrease pest infestation and build-up of mold and mildew, and protect the foundation of your home for many years to come.
What are the cons of encapsulating a crawl space?
Negatives of Encapsulating a Crawl Space Encapsulation is not Cheap. Encapsulation May Require Additional Crawl Space Insulation. Encapsulation May Require HVAC Upgrade. Encapsulation Requires More Maintenance. Dehumidifiers Require Routine Maintenance.
How long does a crawl space encapsulation last?
Generally speaking, most companies will offer a warranty of between 15 and 20 years for a typical crawlspace encapsulation project. However, if the humidity levels are controlled and no catastrophic events such as flooding occur, a properly encapsulated crawlspace can last for more than 20 years.
Does an encapsulated crawl space need a dehumidifier?
Every encapsulated crawlspace needs a drying mechanism. Our favorite is a dehumidifier (we’ll explore why in just a moment), but it’s common for contractors to dry your crawlspace using the “supply air” method. In some homes, supply air may do a good job of drying out the crawlspace.
Does encapsulating a crawl space increase home value?
Encapsulating the crawl space helps control moisture and ultimately increases your home’s value. While not as fancy as other home improvements, crawl space encapsulation is essential for your home.
Is crawl space encapsulation tax deductible?
If you finish the basement of a rental home to add living space? This is an improvement you can deduct. Likewise, if you encapsulate the crawl space to provide additional storage to your renters, or if you install a dehumidifier to improve the air quality for your renters.
What are the advantages of crawl space encapsulation?
Crawl space encapsulation can reduce energy bills by up to 20%, according to Advanced Energy’s research. Make your heating & cooling equipment and ducts last longer. An air handler and ducts in a vented crawl space will not last as long as equipment in a conditioned crawl space. Qualify for rebates and tax incentives.
Should a crawl space be sealed?
Yes, you should. All crawl spaces should be completely sealed and isolated from moisture in the air and from the ground.
Should crawlspace vents be closed in winter?
When temperatures drop below the freezing point, water pipes in the crawl space are bound to freeze if the vents remain open. It’s a good practice to close off the vents in winter. Doing so prevents the dry, cold winter air from freezing the pipes inside the crawl space.
Does an encapsulated crawl space need insulation?
You don’t need to insulate an encapsulated crawl space. Crawl space insulation can be applied between the joists or on the walls of the crawl space. If the crawl space is vented then joist insulation is recommended. If the crawl space is encapsulated either can be used but we recommend insulating the block walls.
Should my crawl space be vented?
Building codes generally require working vents in the crawlspace to allow outside air to circulate under the floor in the summer to prevent moisture buildup that, among mildew and mold, encourages wood rot.
How do you seal a crawl space with a dirt floor?
Dirt floors allow moist air and water to enter the crawl space. You need to hold back this moisture. And the best way of doing this is by encapsulating the crawl space. It involves laying down a 20-mil polyethylene plastic vapor barrier over the crawl space floor and walls.
What is the best way to insulate a crawl space with a dirt floor?
The best thing to do is to place a polyethylene vapor retarder over the dirt floor in your crawl space. Make certain that it is secure by carefully sealing all of the seams.
Is a vapor barrier the same as encapsulation?
The benefits of installing a vapor barrier are the exact same as encapsulation, minus the storage. With a vapor barrier install you can still store things in your crawl space, it’s just not as ‘pretty’ as encapsulation.
When should I turn off my crawl space dehumidifier?
Make sure you run your home or basement dehumidifier only when the relative humidity goes above 50%. Running a dehumidifier 24 / 7 results in higher power consumption and electricity bill charges.
What is cheaper slab or crawl space?
Slabs are less expensive to build. In addition to higher excavation costs for crawl space walls, additional digging is required in order to bury water and sewer lines below the frost level.
Does my crawl space need a vapor barrier?
Yes. You need a vapor barrier in your crawl space. What’s more, a moisture barrier is the minimum amount of protection that you should have in your crawl space. A vapor barrier helps you to avoid expensive repairs.
