What is Crawl Space Encapsulation?

Understanding Why Crawl Space Encapsulation May Be Right For Your Home

There are two things that you can count on as the weather warms up from spring into summer. First, there is going to be more rain, and most likely quite a bit of it. Secondly, in many places the air is going to become more humid and muggy. 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 as well as 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 an area that 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 creep 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 the process of crawl space encapsulation. Generally this project can be completed over the course of a few days, and is well worth the time spent.

1. One of ECP’s installing contractors will provide you will an inspection to assess your needs.
2. Cleanup of old insulation, fixing any cracks, removing moisture, and pest elimination.
3. Spray foam insulation is applied.
4. ECP’s crawl space vapor barrier is applied to the entire crawlspace.
5. Gaps are located and fastened with adhesive tapes or fasteners.
6. An ECP dehumidifier is installed to control moisture keeping your home’s air dry and moisture-free.

The ECP crawl space vapor barrier is a high-performance crawl space vapor 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!