What Are Crawlspace Encapsulation Services
Crawlspace encapsulation is a process in which the crawlspace beneath a home is covered from the floor to the top of the wall to create a controlled environment. The idea behind crawlspace encapsulation is to protect the crawlspace and the home above it from moisture, mold, pests, and other potential issues.
Crawlspace Experts
While many foundation repair companies recommend and install crawlspace encapsulation, Hitman Solutions does not generally recommend this as the best solution to protect your crawlspace.
At Hitman Solutions, we provide alternatives to crawlspace encapsulation that will save you money and protect the longevity of your home's foundation.
Encapsulation involves sealing the walls of the crawlspace, rendering the hidden areas inaccessible for inspection. This poses a potential challenge, as any ongoing problems, such as cracks or leaks, remain concealed behind the encapsulation, potentially going unnoticed for an extended period.
Furthermore, the risk of water intrusion between the encapsulation and the wall is a valid concern. Without an outlet for such water, the trapped moisture may lead to additional complications, including the development of mold.
What Causes Water to Get Into My Crawlspace?
Water can get into your crawlspace due to several reasons. It's important to address these issues as standing water in a crawlspace can lead to various problems such as mold, mildew, and structural damage.
Drainage Issues
If your home's drainage system is not functioning correctly, it can lead to water pooling around your foundation and eventually seeping into your crawlspace. This includes gutters and downspouts that aren't properly directing water away from your home
Poor Grading
The land around your home should slope away from the foundation to help direct rainwater away. If the grading slopes towards your home, water can accumulate around the foundation and find its way into the crawlspace.
Foundation Problems
Cracks or gaps in your home's foundation can allow water to infiltrate. Over time, even small amounts of water can cause significant damage, including mold growth and structural issues.
Broken Pipe
Leaks from broken pipes inside or outside your home can lead to water in your crawlspace. This includes sewer lines, freshwater lines, and even sprinkler systems.
Crawlspace Solutions
- Moisture Barrier Installation: A heavy-duty moisture barrier, often made of reinforced polyethylene, is installed on the floor and sometimes on the walls of the crawlspace encapsulation. This barrier acts as a vapor barrier, preventing moisture from entering the space from the ground. This can also be beneficial in areas where a homeowner is dealing with radon.
- Sealing Vents: Crawlspace vents are sealed or closed off to prevent outside air, moisture, and pests from entering. This helps maintain a more stable temperature and humidity level within the crawlspace.
- Insulation: Depending on the climate, insulation may be added to the walls or ceiling of the crawlspace to help regulate temperature and reduce energy costs.
- Dehumidification: In some cases, a dehumidifier may be installed to control humidity levels within the encapsulated crawlspace, preventing mold growth and other moisture-related issues.
Crawlspace Encapsulation Questions
Hitman Solutions is able to provide many solutions outside of crawlspace encapsulation that protect your crawlspace. These solutions are often much more cost-effective than crawlspace encapsulation and have better long-term results.
While it's possible to do this yourself, hiring a professional ensures proper installation and can help avoid potential issues like incorrect sealing or choosing the wrong materials.
The cost of crawlspace encapsulation can vary depending on the size of the crawlspace and the extent of the work required.
While we don't generally recommend crawlspace encapsulation, we can provide these services. In certain rare situations where radon may be emanating from the ground, crawlspace encapsulation is recommended.
Contact Us For A Free Crawlspace Evaluation
Looking for an estimate for crawlspace encapsulation in Indiana? Look no further than Hitman Solutions. Our team of professionals understands the importance of honesty, punctuality, and education in the contracting industry. We are committed to providing our clients with the best possible service and solution for their crawlspace needs.
Contact us today for a free estimate and let us show you why our approach to business sets us apart from the competition. Trust the experts at Hitman Solutions for all your crawlspace needs.