How Much Does it Cost to Clean and Repair a Crawl Space?
Chances are, you don’t go into your crawl space regularly. We don’t blame you—it’s not the most inviting area.
Unfortunately, this lack of attention means most crawl spaces are ignored. But due to their design, these foundation types are highly susceptible to moisture damage and dirtiness. Here, you’ll learn how much it costs to clean and repair your crawl space!
Cost of Crawl Space Cleanup
Clean-up costs will vary depending on the size of the area that needs cleaning, the extent of damage, and the condition of your crawl space. Another thing that’s going to determine the cost is whether you want a basic clean-up or a thorough clean-up followed up by crawl space repair.
In any case, your local foundation or crawl space contractor will give you an estimate. But first, they have to check the crawl space and see what needs to be done.
Why Should You Worry About Your Crawl Space?
Before you dive into your budgeting needs, you may find yourself asking: What can really go wrong in a crawl space, anyway?
Your crawl space has a myriad of purposes. If you let it fall by the wayside, you don’t just risk losing out on extra space in your home. A problematic crawl space can compromise the value and health of a house. Some of the most common crawl space problems you can run into include:
- Pests: If your crawl space has a crack or leak, then insects and animals can readily make their way into your home. The last thing you want to deal with on top of water damage and other crawl space detriments is unwelcomed guests.
- Mold: Mold loves nothing more than a dark, damp place to grow. If your crawl space has a leak or crack, then it’s only a matter of time before mold starts to make itself at home.
- Water Damage: As you might expect, crawl space leaks and cracks tend to beget water damage. This damage may seem as small as a bit of moisture or as severe as standing water.
- Smells: The more moisture your home has, the worse it’s going to smell. It won’t matter how frequently you clean; a leaking crawl space is going to smell like moisture and mildew.
- Bills: Have your energy bills been skyrocketing seemingly without reason? Cracks and leaks in your crawl space let moisture into your home. That moisture makes it more difficult for your air conditioner and heater to control your home’s internal temperature. As a result, your electric bill may start to rise after a leak forms.
Cost of Crawl Space Encapsulation and Repair
Basic encapsulation and repair will cost you anywhere from $8,000 to $25,000, depending on the size and condition of the crawl space. This figure does not include miscellaneous costs. The cost could go up if there are debris, multiple issues, and significant damage that necessitates repairs. As encapsulation projects begin, your contractor will come in and clear out everything that’s come in as a result of moisture build-up. This includes debris and water, as well as regrading if needed.
Sometimes replacing crawl space insulation is necessary as part of the cleaning process. If your insulation has been contaminated by mold, you will have to remove it and replace it with a fresh one. Removing the insulation costs $1.15 per square foot.
Fungal treatment or mold remediation could cost you anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000. You’ll likely use the same treatments and professionals for this exercise. Mold and high moisture levels go hand in hand. If there’s mold, chances are you will have to carry out crawl space encapsulation and install vapor barriers to bring down humidity levels.
How Long Does Crawl Space Cleaning Take?
Depending on the size and complexity of the job cleaning a crawl space could take anywhere from one hour to several hours. Simple cleanout, such as removing droppings or debris, could take an hour or so. Where thorough cleaning and repairs are necessary, it could take a couple of days.
Tips to Save Money When Cleaning the Crawl Space
When cleaning your crawl space, combine it with repairs. A damp or moist crawl space could be undermining the ability of your home to save energy and maintain hospitable conditions. During hot summer and cooler winter months, you’ll find your HVAC unit running longer than usual to maintain normal conditions in your home.
Find a company that offers end-to-end solutions. There’s a good chance the company you work with does more than just clean out debris and dirt. As well as cleaning out the crawl space, they may carry out encapsulation, sealing, and other necessary repairs. This way, you will avoid the cost of hiring two different companies.
Always budget and save money for maintenance cleaning just as you do for your regular bills and the occasional landscaping. We encourage you to commit a certain amount per year. By doing so, you’ll be in control over your cleaning schedule and not let things go until there’s a problem.
When shopping for a crawl space repair company, request quotes from two or three companies. Compare their clean-up costs, remediation costs, and insulation or repair costs, and see who gives value for money. By doing this, you’ll slash a couple of hundred dollars from the final bill.
DIY Clean up vs. Hiring Cleaning Professionals
We know how tempting it is to perform a DIY cleanup. You could think you’re saving money or doing it at your pace and at a time of your convenience. But do you know what’s involved when cleaning out the crawl space and the risks involved?
Sometimes, cleaning the crawl space is not just as simple as mopping up the floor and sweeping out the debris. You will need the appropriate gear and the right cleaning tools. Why would you want to expose yourself to dangerous black mold and other hazards such as electrical wires? Focus on your other chores and let well-trained professionals handle this work.
Want to clean out your damp or dirty crawl space but not sure how much it’s going to cost? Get a free crawl space estimate from the experts at Alpha Foundations. We can turn your damp, moldy crawl space into a clean space for your belongings.
Schedule a Free Crawl Space Inspection With Alpha Foundations
While the upfront cost of crawl space encapsulation might seem daunting, the long-term benefits it offers in terms of home value, energy efficiency, and structural integrity are undeniable.
If you’re considering encapsulation, choose a trusted partner like Alpha Foundations. Since 2002, we’ve been trusted for our efficient service and our steadfast commitment to customer service.
Alpha Foundations is committed to enhancing your property and protecting your home’s future. Contact us today for a free inspection and take the first step towards significantly boosting your home’s value.
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Ted Dryce
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