Crawl Space Encapsulation Can Reduce Mold Growth
What exactly is crawl space encapsulation? Well, according to the Oxford dictionary, ucoculation is the act of enclosing an area as if it were inside a sealed capsule. When it comes to the crawl space, encapsulating a crawl space helps to make the space more dry, making it less hospitable for the growth of mold and mildew. If you do not have a vapor barrier in your crawl space and you are experiencing problems with mold, mildew, condensation, damage to the wooden structure, or structural damage to the foundation of the home, it is time to call a local contractor who specializes in crawl space encapsulation.
A qualified contractor will complete a full excavation and encapsulate the crawl space. The first step of crawl space encapsulation is waterproofing the area. Then, a vapor barrier is installed between the walls and ceiling, a second waterproofing layer is installed around the exterior walls, and the soil lining is treated with a fungicide. Walls and foundations are then cracked to allow for proper ventilation.
A qualified contractor will also consider the type of foundation on the structure of your home before he begins work on your home improvement project. In most cases, foundation walls are simply not adequate in preventing moisture from penetrating the interior of the home. In addition, existing floor drain tiles may need to be modified. This can only be done by a licensed contractor with the proper training. If there are cracks and openings in the crawl space walls, a home improvement project is absolutely necessary before you will be able to breathe a sigh of relief and move on with your life.
A qualified contractor from Bay Crawlspace and Foundation Repair company will also recommend the proper material for the barriers. Fiberglass mesh and plastic are the most common materials used for crawl space encapsulation. A properly installed barrier can effectively reduce the amount of air movement through the area. There are two considerations to keep in mind when choosing the material for the barrier: the permeability of the material and the degree of vapor resistance.
If the space has not had any masonry work done, then epoxy or wood putties should be used to encase the seams. These products are excellent for both crawl space encapsulation and as a foundation repair. Epoxy can be applied to the exterior of masonry walls and floors. Wood putties are equally effective if these substances are applied correctly. However, it is important to make sure that the tape is dry before applying it to walls and/or floors.
You can also use paint to crawl space encapsulate. The paint is not nearly as effective as the other materials, but it can be an effective addition to a restoration project. It will help you repel mold and other outdoor organisms. It is important to research and choose a product that is designed for crawl space encapsulation and mold prevention. Please view this site: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crawl_space for further details on the topic.
