Crawl Space
Crawl space is a narrow, low-lying basement structure with very little headroom. It is generally installed in properties where the possibility of making a basement is low. This space is mainly used to repair and maintain plumbing lines and electrical wiring. HVAC systems can also be accessed and fixed through a crawl space.
The crawl space is a buffer between the house and the ground on which it has been built. Therefore, it needs to be kept dry and cool to prevent problems caused by a wet crawl space. It is highly recommended that one keeps an eye out for issues emanating due to high moisture levels in the crawl space. American Restoration Professionals shares insight into water damage and restoration in the crawl space.
Signs indicating a wet crawl space
- Moisture buildup can lead to mold and fungal growth, which pose severe health hazards.
- Bad smells and stench in and around the crawl space indicate high humidity levels.
- Humidity is also detrimental to the structural stability of the foundation, which weakens if water gets into it.
- A damp crawl space could also cause an increase in the pest population in the house.
- Change in the flooring levels of the house by way of sagging or undulations could also result from a wet crawl space.
In case of flooding or moisture buildup in this location, it is advisable to call in experts like the American Restoration Professionals in Brockton, MA, for quick and efficient water removal services.
One should refrain from getting into DIY solutions or crawling into this tight space on their own as that could pose safety risks. Furthermore, it is a tricky space to work out repairs and maintenance without proper training and equipment. So, it is best to leave it to the qualified pros for water removal from the crawl space.
An essential guide for water removal from crawl space
A professional team of contractors like American Restoration Professionals possesses the skills, certified training, and modern technology to effectively and quickly work out water removal from the crawl space by employing some of these simple techniques and equipment:
- Drainage strategy: Designing and installing an effective system to drain out any excess water from the crawl space to address leaks and groundwater inflow is the first and most crucial step toward keeping the crawl space dry. The strategy could require building French drains, slopes in the gutters, and sidewalks to divert the excess water flow away from the house.
- Vapor Barrier: Fixing a plastic lining of proper strength, durability, and thickness to the crawl space floor is another excellent way to prevent moisture from getting inside the crawl space. This thick sheet would be a barrier between the earth and the crawl space.
- Rigid insulation panels: Installing thick and durable insulation panels which are fire rated and integrated with termiticide onto the walls protects from moisture buildup inside the crawl space.
- Sealing vents and openings: It is unwise to leave openings and vents in the crawl space without any cover, as pests, dirt, debris, and water can come through them into the crawl space. So, the best thing to do is seal them tight and conduct routine inspections to check they stay so.
- Moisture control with equipment: Keeping the water, condensation, and humidity out of the crawl space is imperative. For this reason, it makes sense to install equipment like dehumidifiers to control the moisture levels in the crawl space. This strategy would effectively end any mold growth and foul odors.
Keeping the crawl space environment healthy and moisture-free is essential for every homeowner.
Call American Restoration Professionals at (617) 945-4510 or email them at dan@americanresotationprofessionals.com to resolve the problems quickly.
