Pros & Cons of Encapsulating a Crawl Space: The Ultimate Guide
There’s no doubt that a musty and damp crawl space is bad for your home. It makes your living space uncomfortable and it damages the structural integrity of the building.
To fix these issues, you need crawl space encapsulation, but what are the pros of cons of installing it? We’ll explore everything you need to know in this guide.
What Is Crawl Space Encapsulation?
Crawl space encapsulation involves covering the walls and floor of the crawl space with a vapor barrier to prevent moisture from entering. This process often includes other waterproofing measures such as installing a drainage system with a sump pump to handle any water that collects under the barrier, and adding a dehumidifier to control moisture levels.
With these water management tools working together, they keep the crawl space dry, clean, and protected from moisture and the damage it can cause.
Pros of Encapsulating a Crawl Space
Crawl space encapsulation is one of the most valuable investments you can make for your home. Let’s look at the many benefits encapsulation provides.
Pro #1: Creates Better Indoor Air Quality
When moisture gets below your home, it causes a number of issues. Common signs of water damage—like mold, wood rot, and pests—create musty odors or waste products that make the air unhealthy. About 50% of the air in your home comes from the crawl space, so installing encapsulation makes your indoor air quality healthier and prevents these issues from arising.
Pro #2: Makes it Hard for Pests to Get In
Encapsulating a crawl space is by no means a pest control method, but it does make it much harder for pests to get into your crawl space. With a vapor barrier sealing entry points for moisture, insects and other critters will also no longer have easy access (if any at all).
Also, because encapsulation keeps the crawl space dry, the area becomes less attractive to pests seeking moisture or humidity. Animals will be much less likely to target your home.
Pro #3: Protects Your Floors
Crawl space moisture is one of the biggest causes of structural damage for homes in Florida. One of the most common issues that comes from a wet crawl space is a sagging floor. Since moisture causes wood rot, the structural supports holding up your floor will break down over time.
Eventually, this can cause your floors to sag, and even bounce, as you walk over them. Crawl space encapsulation prevents this issue.
Pro #4: Increases Energy Efficiency
Most crawl spaces have insulation, and without encapsulation, this insulation is much more likely to become wet. Wet insulation is highly ineffective, meaning your home will have less protection against the outdoor temperature.
With less protection comes an HVAC system that has to work harder to keep your house cool or warm. Quickly, your energy bills will get higher—but you can keep these bills much lower with encapsulation.
Pro #5: Enhances Your Property Value
If you plan on selling your home in the future, crawl space encapsulation can make your home more attractive to potential buyers. It can increase your home’s marketability and possibly raise its resale value.
Cons of Encapsulating a Crawl Space
Even though crawl space encapsulation is a valuable asset, you do need to take some considerations before installing it. Let’s look at a few potential disadvantages to think about.
Con #1: Less Storage Space
Encapsulating a crawl space requires you to seal the entire crawl space in order to keep moisture out. As a result, all openings have to be kept closed to experience the full benefits.
You won’t be able to keep items in your crawl space anymore, as constantly opening the crawl space door can negate the effects of encapsulation. You’ll have less storage space, but a healthier home.
Con #2: More Maintenance
Crawl space encapsulation can last 20 years or more, but because it’s made up of many parts, you’ll need to invest in regular maintenance. This will ensure that the system continues to work effectively, and can help you stay on top of any issues that might arise.
Professionals can help with maintenance checks, but it’s something you’ll have to make an effort to keep up with, so keep that in mind. Issues are rare, but it’s always best to be safe.
Con #3: Cost of Installation
Cost is an unavoidable factor when it comes to any type of home maintenance. Depending on who you work with, you should expect to pay somewhere between $1,500 – $30,000.
We know that’s a wide range, but the price depends on many factors including the size of your crawl space, length of the job, and the individual rates of each installer. Just keep this in mind as you look for the right fit.
Protect Your Crawl Space With Alpha Foundations
There are many things to consider when it comes to crawl space encapsulation, and the choice is up to you. If you need someone to help you through the process, consider working with Alpha Foundations, Florida’s leading crawl space repair experts since 2002. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection and put crawl space water back in its place.
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Ted Dryce
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