How Humidity Impacts Crawlspaces

Many homeowners might not be aware of a serious threat to crawlspaces: humidity. Humidity might not sound scary, but it has damaging and long-term effects on wood, insulation, metal, and even the physical health of residents.

If humidity is allowed to build inside a crawlspace, it creates mold, rot, corroded metal, allergens, and unpleasant odors. If it gets bad enough, it also will negatively impact energy bills. Organic materials are especially susceptible to the ravages of humidity. Things like wood, insulation, paper, and cardboard become damp, creating an ideal environment for mold. As mold grows, it creates rot. Rot eats away at supportive elements, like beams and floor joists.

Mold also attracts pests, including termites and small animals. These creep around your crawlspace causing more damage to your home’s structure, and pests often die in the crawlspace—creating unpleasant odors and attracting even more pests. The mold and odor festering in the crawlspace can aggravate allergies and lead to headaches, coughing, nasal congestion, and respiratory upset.

A moisture control strategy will keep the vicious cycle of humidity from playing out in your home. Master Services recommends a three-level approach. First, we’ll seal up any vents in the space. Next, our vapor barrier will be installed along the walls. This liner is tear-resistant and impervious to mold and mildew. Third, we install a dehumidifier to keep moisture and humidity at bay. These dependable machines provide peace of mind and long-term protection for crawlspaces.

With these measures in place, homeowners need never worry about humidity—or mold and pests—wreaking havoc in below-grade areas.