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Originally Posted On: https://www.raleighcrawlspacerepair-csn.com/crawl-space-encapsulation-raleigh-nc

We get a lot of questions about our crawl space encapsulation service in Raleigh, NC, and what to answer the five most common questions for you to understand this service better.

• WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF CRAWL SPACE ENCAPSULATION?

  Crawl space encapsulation seals a home’s crawl space to create a barrier against moisture, pests, and other elements. This process can help improve the overall air quality of a home and increase the home’s energy efficiency.

• HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO ENCAPSULATE A CRAWL SPACE?

  The cost to encapsulate a crawl space varies from project to project. There are significant factors that may need to be addressed first. Below we will list a few of those factors.

  • The size of the crawl space
  • The height of the crawl space
  • Does the crawl space need to be waterproofed
  • Does the crawl space require a mold remediation
  • Does the crawl space need structural repairs
  • Amount of soil grading needed
  • The thickness of the vapor barrier
  • Size of dehumidifier necessary to control humidity

• WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ENCAPSULATING A CRAWL SPACE?

  There are many benefits of encapsulating a crawl space, but the three main benefits are:

  1. Increased Energy Efficiency: By encapsulating your crawl space, you can control your home’s temperature better, leading to increased energy efficiency and lower utility bills.
  2. Improved Air Quality: By sealing off your crawl space, you can prevent outside air and contaminants from entering your home, which leads to improved air quality.
  3. Reduced Mold and Mildew: By encapsulating your crawl space, you can reduce the amount of moisture in the air, which reduces the risk of mold and mildew growth

• IS CRAWL SPACE ENCAPSULATION WORTH THE INVESTMENT?

  Yes, crawl space encapsulation is worth the investment. Crawl space encapsulation seals the crawl space so it’s protected from the elements. This can help prevent moisture and mold issues and improve your home’s energy efficiency.

   

  If you’re considering selling your home, crawl space encapsulation can be a selling point. Many buyers are concerned about moisture and mold issues, and having a sealed crawl space can give them peace of mind.

• WHAT PROBLEMS CAN BE CAUSED BY NOT ENCAPSULATING A CRAWL SPACE?

  Not encapsulating a crawl space can cause several problems, including:

  • Increased moisture levels can lead to mold and mildew growth
  • Pest infestations
  • Structural damage

   

  If you’re considering buying a home with an unencapsulated crawl space, have a professional inspect it first and ensure any potential problems are addressed.

• HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO ENCAPSULATE A CRAWL SPACE?

  Encapsulating a typical crawl space takes roughly 2-3 days. The encapsulation process may take longer if the crawl space is large or more challenging to maneuver in. Before a crawl space can be encapsulated, you may need to have a drainage system installed, have mold remediation performed, and may need to make repairs to the structure due to water damage.

  OUR PROCESS: CRAWLSPACE ENCAPSULATION IN RALEIGH, NC

  Below we will break down our process for encapsulation a typical crawl space here in Raleigh, NC. If you still have questions, please reach out to us so we can answer them.

  • STEP 1 – AIR SEAL PENETRATIONS

    All penetrations between the crawl space and exterior must be air sealed. This includes plumbing, HVAC pipes, and electrical wires, preventing excessive moisture from entering the crawl space.

  • STEP 2 – SEAL FOUNDATION VENTS

    All foundation vents must be air sealed. Foundation vents provide the pathway for humid air to enter your crawl space in the summer months and cold air in the winter months that cause the majority of the damage to your structure.

  • STEP 3 – INSTALL VAPOR BARRIER AROUND PILLARS

    The reinforced vapor barrier must be fastened to the crawl space pillars to properly seal out the moisture from the ground when sealed to the vapor barrier on the ground.

  • STEP 4 – INSTALL VAPOR BARRIER ON FOUNDATION WALLS

    The reinforced crawl space liner must be fastened to the foundation walls to prevent moisture from evaporating from the block and to adequately prevent the moisture from the ground from entering the air under your home when sealed to the moisture barrier on the ground.

  • STEP 5 – INSTALL A VAPOR BARRIER OVER THE GROUND

    The vapor barrier is installed over the soil and sealed to the liner installed around the pillars and foundation walls to create one continuous vapor barrier. The vapor barrier traps a vast amount of moisture from entering the crawl space and causes damage to your home’s foundation and mechanical systems.

  • STEP 6 – INSTALL THE CRAWL SPACE DEHUMIDIFIER

    A properly designed and sized commercial grade dehumidifier is installed as the final step of encapsulating a crawl space. The dehumidifier regulates the amount of humidity that builds up over time. To prevent mold growth, the dehumidifier should be set to keep the relative humidity levels below 50%.