Thursday, April 28, 2016

Addressing Crawl Space Problems

Most homeowners aren't happy with their crawl space. They find it damp, musty, and foul-smelling. Crawl spaces can easily flood and in extreme cases rodents, animals and other pests can be found living within debris. An insulation company at the Lake of the Ozarks has options to alleviate the issues commonly found . A B Pest Control and Insulation can turn your crawl space into a drier, cleaner, healthier, and more energy-efficient area.

Options to Address Your Crawl Space Problems


Option 1: Completely condition the crawlspace by using a 12-20 mil membrane with closed cell foam on foundation walls and rim boards to completely seal out air and moisture from the outside. The conditioned air from the lower level to the crawlspace is able to flow through the floor joists without the odor, moisture, etc.

Option 2: Installing a vapor barrier only. This is a less expensive option as it only seals the ground issues for moisture. Air will still be able to transfer from the exterior to the interior as it is a traditional cross-ventilated crawlspace.

Poor Air Quality Can Affect Your Health


Even though your crawl space is underneath your home, that doesn’t necessarily mean that excess moisture and poor air quality in your crawl space isn’t hurting you. Much of the air we breathe on the first floor of our homes comes from the crawl space or basement. Excess moisture can lead to mold, dust, insect, and other pests. Poor air quality caused from mold spores and dust mites are the two largest indoor allergens and can be detrimental to some people's health. 

Here are some signs to help you determine if your crawl space has excessive moisture:

  • Standing water or mud on dirt floor after a heavy rain
  • Efflorescence on crawl space walls
  • Signs of wood rot and rust in crawl space
  • High radon levels
  • Unpleasant dirt/mud odors
  • Respiratory discomfort, headaches, and illnesses, such as allergies and asthma
  • Insect and other pest infestations
  • Mold and mildew on walls and floors of first-floor closets
  • Peeling paint on home exterior

It Can Save You Money


If you choose the option with the 12-20 mil membrane and the closed cell foam option you can turn your crawlspace into a conditioned space. One that is close to the living temperature in the floor above. When that happens, your floors feel warmer in winter and your energy bills can go down. This also eliminates the need to check on vents to make sure they are properly open and closed depending on the season. Some customers are experiencing up to 60% savings! 

It Can Prevent Harmful Gases


Radon gas is a very serious problem. In the event that radon is present in higher than acceptable levels in your home, a vapor barrier can be coupled with a radon mitigation system, which can significantly reduce the levels of radon in your home.


Let A B Pest Control and Insulation Inspect Your Crawl Space


If you are looking to have a vapor barrier installed in your crawl space, enlist the help of a professional crawl space insulation company at the Lake of the Ozarks. They can make sure your house is cleaner, and healthier for you and your family. A B Pest Control and Insulation can seal up your crawl space, so that you can eliminate moisture, odors, and pests for good! Call us for a free no obligation quote at (573) 964-1100.


Lake of the Ozarks
Pest Control Company




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