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Completely understanding the problem is how we can offer
'Solutions That Work'
Crawl Space Encapsulation and proper Insulation
 
Before DrySpace™
After DrySpace™
Does your crawl space worry you? Not knowing what is down
there, where that smell comes from. We have the guaranteed solution to crawl
space mold, odor, water, insect damage, heat loss and air quality.
The
Problem
Crawl space air getting into your
home.
Crawl space encapsulation is a newer technology that greatly
improves the air quality in your home, eliminates costly structure problems, and
eliminates the environment in which mold, fungus, bacteria and insects thrive.
Years ago before nearly every home had air conditioning homeowners opened the
windows for fresh air which reduced these symptoms. A home is designed
to "breathe" moving air toward the roof and out the roof vents. Would it surprise you
to know that
nearly 50% of the air in your first floor living area comes from the
crawl space? The air from the crawl space is pulled into the living area by this
natural vacuum then it either exits out the open windows or it continues toward
the roof as the warm air rises. As this air escapes through the roof, it pulls
more air from the crawl space and the cycle continues. The other way that crawl
space air enters the living area is through the heat/air conditioning ductwork.
Each time the furnace comes on the air in the crawl space is pulled into these
ducts (which are most often in the crawl space) and taken throughout the home.
The moving air in the ducts create a vacuum at the seams which pulls the
contaminated air from the crawl space and mixes it with the warmed/cooled air,
then delivers it to every room in the home. If you don't have a forced air
heating system then the percentage drops to around 30%.
Moisture
The exposed dirt floor emits moisture into the air, this is compounded by the
high summer humidity that is delivered via the crawl space vents and gaps in the
rim joist and sill plate. Research has shown that water vapor in the air is
exchanged simultaneously between the outside air and the crawl space. In other
words the moisture in the air outside your crawl space will equal the moisture
in the air inside your crawl space at all times regardless of whether the metal vents
are open or closed. This is why encapsulation is so important. The vapor
barrier stops the moisture from entering the crawl space from the ground and
vents, while the insulation greatly reduces moisture penetration at the rim
joist and sill plate. These are the first steps in providing your home with a "conditioned crawl space".
Humidity
High humidity creates many problems for your home. Wood boring insects like the
powder post beetle, the termite and the carpenter ant need this humidity to
survive and reproduce. Condensation, which is caused by high humidity and
extreme temperature changes can do major damage to the homes joists and wood
beams. Mold, fungus, and bacteria also need high humidity to survive and
reproduce under your home. As reported by the EPA these condition cause or
worsen allergy problems, asthma, respiratory problems and sinus infections.
The Solution
A proper "conditioned crawl space" includes three major components; DrySpace™
which is a polyethylene vapor barrier.
The barrier is important because all that is required by most codes is a vapor retarder, the
difference is a barrier locks out moisture and a retarder slows the moisture
penetration. A quality sump pump (like the
Zoeller® M-53)
with drain tile around the inside perimeter for water control (if needed) and a
dehumidifier or adding the crawl space to the heating/cooling system of the home
which controls the remaining moisture that leaks in from the sill plate and rim
joist. The encapsulation addresses all of the problems associated with a crawl
space, from moisture to Mold and from insects to structure rot these problems
will be a thing of the past.
The process we use also offers more than the eye can see,
literally. As a result of installing our system (at no extra charge or effort) there are
many other conditions that are addressed and resolved. For example, the sump
basin we use has a completely sealed lid and is certified for Radon control.
What this means is if you have a Radon problem or are concerned about Radon our
solution eliminates this issue. Our vapor barrier is also an air/gas barrier and
it is used in the Asbestos and Mold abatement industry. If professionals in the
field of hazardous material count on its performance than you can too. Another
example of additional performance is the savings on your energy costs,
which is one of the main reasons the old building code was modified to allow a
conditioned crawl space. Even though it may seem more costly
to condition the crawl space it is actually the opposite. By closing the vents
and insulation the rim joist we are keeping out the cold and/or moist air that
absorbs the conditioned air you pay for each month.
When the crawl space is properly
encapsulated it will pass any inspection. The end result is clean conditioned
air with no source of contamination coming from the crawl space. This added to
the value of the positive side effects leaves your home healthy, efficient and
more comfortable.
If you get an opportunity please give us a call we would love
to hear from you even if you only have a question.
877-379-7658 or send us an email at
info@crawlspaceinfo.com
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