Keeping your crawl space clean is the foundation of a healthier and safer home, so don’t let this chore crawl to the bottom of your to-do list.
What is a Crawl Space?
A crawl space is an unfinished area beneath the main floor that serves as a buffer between the house and the ground.
Unlike a basement, a crawl space has limited height and cannot be finished as a livable space. However, it does offers access to utilities and some storage space.
But that doesn’t mean you should ignore this space because it’s a little dark and scary.
Doing regular maintenance in your crawl space will prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to allergens, mildew, and mold that can affect the air quality throughout your home. It also will keep away uninvited guests, such as insects, rodents, and other pests.
Crawl Space Maintenance Tips
- Inspect regularly: Become familiar with your crawl space and how it and its needs adapt to the seasons. Be on the lookout for unexpected changes.
- Ensure vents or openings are sealed: Use airtight covers and doors to block outside air, water, and pests from entering your crawl space.
- Remove debris: Get rid of any piles of leaves or trash that could lure in insects or rodents looking for a home.
- Handle any pests quickly: If you do notice that pests are gathering in your crawl space, call an exterminator — we recommend Bug Man Exterminating — quickly, before an infestation happens.
- Control moisture: It’s common for crawl spaces to have some moisture, especially during the summer when humidity levels rise. However, uncontrolled and excessive moisture can lead to mold and mildew, which, left unchecked, can cause structural damage. Crawl Space Care’s expert team can recommend and install humidifiers, sump pumps, and other solutions to keep your crawl space dry.
- Watch for mold: Mold is an immediate threat to the air quality and health of your house. If found, call a professional to have it removed safely.
- Be Proactive: Don’t let needed repairs wait.
Consider Crawlspace Encapsulation
When moisture becomes an ongoing issue and especially if you see signs of dampness in your living space, crawl space encapsulation may be required. Encapsulation blocks moisture from seeping through the crawl space’s walls and floor through the addition of vapor barrier plastic.
Crawl Space Care offers a variety of crawl space solutions that consider your needs, including the condition of your crawl space and your budget.
Bring in the Professionals
No matter your questions or needs, the friendly and experienced staff at Crawl Space Care is ready to help. We’re a family-owned company proudly serving the Roanoke and New River Valleys. We offer free inspections and hassle-free estimates.
Call us today to schedule your free inspection!