Crawl spaces are a popular option for new-build construction projects, as they tend to run on the cheaper side. The only problem is that crawl spaces have a tendency to trap moisture, leading to the growth of mold and fungi.
Crawl space encapsulation is the perfect solution for any homeowner with a damp or water-damaged crawl space. With our top-to-bottom liners, you can keep moisture out, protect your home, and increase your storage space.
The question is, what can you do to prepare for crawl space encapsulation before we arrive?
Read on for a complete checklist that you can follow to ensure that your crawl space encapsulation proceeds quickly and smoothly.
Clear Out the Entry Point to Your Crawl Space
Many homeowners tend to avoid their crawl space as much as possible. After all, it’s not exactly the kind of space where you want to hang out!
If you have any large items or furniture blocking the entry point to your crawl space, relocate it for the time being. Make sure that the entry point and pathway into your crawl space are clean and clear so that your contractors can get in and out with their equipment.
Remove All Storage Items From Your Crawl Space
If you happen to be storing anything in your crawl space (something that crawl space encapsulation makes even more doable), remove those items before your appointment. Crawl space encapsulation involves laying down a heavy-duty liner to create a barrier between the exposed ground and the open air. We’re able to do our job much quicker when your crawl space is free of storage!
Check For Signs of Potential Damage in Your Crawl Space
Before you schedule your crawl space encapsulation appointment, there are a few signs of damage you should assess. Depending on the state of your crawl space, you made need to hire additional contractors to make repairs and address issues. Let’s take a look at some of the problems you should check for.
Standing Water
Standing water can accumulate in a crawl space with extreme moisture problems or leaking pipes. If you notice standing water, let us know that it’s there. Standing water that isn’t addressed can create safety hazards for workers who are encapsulating your crawl space.
Damaged Wood
Moisture and age both take a serious toll on wooden structures. Take a look at any wooden structural elements in your crawl space, including beams, frames, and posts. Check for signs of rotting, cracking, or warping.
If you detect any of these issues, you will want to address them before you have your crawl space encapsulated. Our barriers are designed, in part, to protect these structural elements, not to reinforce them. Encapsulating a crawl space with structural damage is a bit like trying to repair your foundation with a bandaid!
Plumbing Issues
Much like covering damaged wood with a liner, covering damaged pipes is not ideal. Take a look at any plumbing and pipes that you can see from your crawl space. Look for signs of leaking, cracking, or corrosion.
If you’re not sure what you’re looking at but it doesn’t look great, you’ll want to consult a plumber for a second opinion. It’s possible that even if you’re not seeing signs of leaking yet, you may be in the near future. It’s always cheaper to get preemptive maintenance than to clean up the residual damage.
Damaged Electrical Wiring
Finally, take a quick look at your electrical wiring. Make sure that there are no loose or frayed ends, which could lead to injuries or even electrical fires. Remember, this is never the kind of damage you want to try to fix on your own–always call a professional, instead.
Clear Up the Dirt Floor
This step isn’t a must but it can be helpful, particularly in older properties that have rougher dirt floors. Head to your crawl space with a bucket and a rake and look for rocks and other sharp debris. Clear out as much of the debris as you can, as sharp objects can penetrate liners over time.
Ask Our Inspector About Your Options
When you’re ready to start talking to us about crawl space incapsulation, ask our inspector about your options. In addition to our standard liners, we also offer reinforced liners to provide extra protection from foot traffic and storage. We can also recommend dehumidifiers for crawl spaces that have a more extreme moisture problem.
Our goal is to set you up with the best encapsulation solutions available. Our inspector is happy to go over the waterproofing process and learn more about your particular needs to come up with the perfect plan.
Prepare Pets and Kids For Your Crawl Space Encapsulation Day
Finally, it’s important to remember that while crawl space encapsulation is not an extreme renovation, you’ll still have a work zone below your house. Make sure that kids and pets are kept safe by keeping them in other areas of the home.
It’s also worth noting that crawl space encapsulation isn’t the nosiest process, but it may still be disruptive to your normal routine. Keep this in mind so that you can plan your day accordingly!
Armored Basement Is Here to Protect and Preserve Your Home
It’s not uncommon to find homes that are built on top of a crawl space, rather than a full basement. It’s a much more cost-effective option that many builders prefer. The only problem is that it can also cause moisture problems that can lead to residual damage.
Crawl space encapsulation is the best way to protect your home from moisture damage. To find out more about our availability and pricing, contact us today. We’ll get you started with a free inspection so that we together, we can find the perfect solution for your crawl space.
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