Crawl Space Insulation

!±8± Crawl Space Insulation

Many homes that are built over a crawl space often suffer with moisture related issues due to the area surroundings. Naturally, when moisture mixes with wood it creates a recipe for mold and even termite infestation, often leading to the deterioration of a home. Because indoor airflow naturally rises, using a vapor barrier and dehumidifier in the crawlspace can dramatically decrease the amount of moisture and soil gas present. This can greatly reduce the risk for:

-Mold
-Mildew
-Wood rot
-Floor failure
-Decreased insulation R-values
-Increased heating & cooling bills
-Odors
-Insects
-Dust mites
-Aggravated allergies
-Poor storage environment
-Poor IAQ (Indoor Air Quality)

Water permeates the crawl space through the earth around the home, from any number of plumbing issues or through moisture entering the crawlspace vents. What results is a transformation from a crawl space to an actual breeding ground for mice, rats, snakes and other creatures living in the damp, dark habitat. Now remember, warm air rises through your home and leaves through the upper levels and subsequently, crawl space air is wrenched up into your home with it. As the warm air rises, there is nothing to stop the humidity, mold spores, dust mite waste, and odors coming up with it.

Insulating a vented crawlspace is a sticky situation. Insulation will not keep humid summer air and cold winter air away from your floorboards; most standard insulation vapor barriers will allow moisture and mold to soak through the material, weighing it down and causing it to crumple onto to the floor. And that's no good for your home.

This is because most contractors and homeowners will lay down a very thin, non fire-retardant 4 or 6-mil plastic liner which does very little since air can still enter from crawl space doors, vents, pipes or other permeable openings. Furthermore, most standard vapor barriers will either be attached by a seal tape or be stapled to the wall. The problem with this is that in one case it defeats the purpose of a liner by injecting holes into it and the other creates a rumpled-looking effect in the crawl space, as opposed to utilizing an adhesive liner which not only provides for longer duration, but also looks much cleaner and tidier. The vapor barrier must cover all areas, including the foundation walls and piers.

The bottom line: installing a durable, 20-mil, adhesive strip, water-proof, anti-microbial, fire-retardant and puncture resistant vapor barrier can transform a moist, unhealthy crawl space breeding ground into clean, sanitary environment that no longer promotes mold, odors, pests and even potential infestation. The crawl space can even be used for storage purposes and ultimately fulfill its purpose of promoting healthy air circulation and reducing overall humidity in the house. And of course, a vapor barrier just makes the crawl space look a whole lot more attractive!