Cleaning Your Crawl Space; Summer Project Kick-Off
Tackling your crawl space probably isn't high on your list of fun activities – it's often out of sight, out of mind! But before you venture into this hidden part of your home, Liberty Basement Systems wants to share some essential dos and dont's to keep you safe and your home healthy.
Exploring your crawl space can feel a bit spooky. This tight, confined area beneath your home is usually left undisturbed unless something forces you into it. However, ignoring it indefinitely isn't an option. Eventually, a crawl space cleaning becomes a necessity.
This guide from Liberty Basement Systems will walk you through the proper way to clean your crawl space, highlighting key actions and crucial things to avoid for a safe and effective clean-up.
Why Cleaning Your Crawl Space Matters
You might wonder why bother with a space that's often dark, damp, and feels more like a cave than part of your home. Yet, consistent cleaning and maintenance of your crawl space are vital. Neglecting it can lead to moisture and mold buildup, which directly impacts your home's air quality and overall insulation efficiency.
What Exactly Is a Crawl Space?
Not every home has a crawl space; they're typically found in homes without basements or solid concrete foundations. Located directly under your home's main floor, access is usually via a small opening on the exterior base of your house – hence the "crawl" in its name.
Inside, you'll find essential home components like plumbing, ventilation systems, electrical wiring, and gas hookups. Crawl spaces provide crucial access for repairs or replacements of these elements. They also play a significant role in your home's air circulation when properly maintained. The issue is that many homeowners overlook their crawl space until a problem arises.
Common issues in a poorly maintained crawl space include:
- Fungus and mold growth
- Pest infestations (including rodents carrying pathogens like hantavirus)
- Standing water or sewage
- Wasted energy due to poor insulation
- Damaged wiring
- Structural instability from wear and tear or damage
- Asbestos from older insulation
Liberty Basement Systems is here to help you understand how to properly clean and maintain this area for a healthier living environment.
The Proper Way to Clean Your Crawl Space
Cleaning a crawl space involves a good deal of manual labor – it's far more than just wiping things down and disinfecting. It can get quite messy!
Here's what a thorough crawl space cleaning often entails:
- Pest removal
- Eliminating standing water
- Getting rid of old insect colonies
- Replacing old insulation
- Sealing air leaks
- Installing and maintaining vapor barriers
Does this sound more like a renovation project than a cleaning job? You're right! That's precisely why Liberty Basement Systems recommends hiring professionals to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
Important Things to Avoid When Cleaning Your Crawl Space
Just as there are "dos," there are crucial "don'ts" to keep in mind.
DON’T Install Too Many Vents
You might think more vents mean better moisture release, but that's not true! Too many vents can actually draw in more humidity, leading to a moist environment where mold thrives. Plus, excessive vents create more entry points for pests looking for shelter. If your crawl space needs vents, the general guideline is one vent every 10 feet and within three feet of every corner. It's also a good idea to check with your local energy company, as they might offer valuable insights and even rebates for qualified energy efficiency upgrades.
DON’T Install Vapor Barriers Directly on Your Floor Joists
Your floor joists are the foundational framework supporting your home's floors. While some might consider installing vapor barriers directly on them to protect against moisture, this can become problematic in warmer months. Condensation from your crawl space can get trapped between these barriers and your joists, significantly increasing the risk of mold or wood rot. The primary goal for your crawl space should always be to minimize condensation as much as possible.
DON’T Ignore Your Drainage System
Crawl spaces naturally collect water from rain and groundwater. However, allowing standing water to linger is a big mistake. If you have standing water, contact Liberty Basement Systems immediately to learn about our professional crawl space water removal and remediation services. A reliable sump pump system is essential for managing water intrusion. Look for a system that includes a dehumidifier and a sump pump specifically suited for your needs. We can also help you implement strategies to prevent water from entering your crawl space in the first place.
Let Liberty Basement Systems Handle the Hard Work!
As you can see, cleaning your crawl space is indeed a messy and complex undertaking. If you'd rather not tackle it yourself, don't hesitate to entrust the job to the professionals. You might be surprised that the cost-benefit of hiring Liberty Basement Systems versus a DIY approach is more favorable than you think!
At Liberty Basement Systems, we're dedicated to providing expert crawl space solutions to homeowners in the area. With years of experience and countless satisfied customers, we're ready to help you.
Contact Liberty Basement Systems today for a free estimate at 1-570-409-5835. We're happy to answer any questions you have and ensure your crawl space is in top condition!