The Dangers of a Vented Crawl Space

Say No To Vented Crawl Spaces

Many homeowners ask if their crawl space should be vented. The answer is no, it shouldn't be. As much as half the air in your home could be coming from your crawl space, so outside air should not be allowed in for several reasons.

The first is that vents will allow humidity inside in the summer.

Hot, humid air is dangerous after it gets in because once the relative humidity in your crawl space reaches 70%, mold grows. Once it reaches 90%, wood rots. Once it reaches 100%, condensation happens. And pests, such as termites, love moisture. 

The second reason is that cold air will be let into your home in the winter (which is the exact opposite from what you want). 

When cold air is let in, the floors above will feel cold as a result. It will also be more difficult to warm the entire home with all that cold air coming up, using more energy. Especially since insulation loses its R-value as moisture and air flow increase, it is pretty much useless.

As a solution to this problem, HomeSpec can encapsulate your crawl space with our innovative CleanSpace system. During this process the crawl space is completely sealed off from the outside. This can also include vents covers to block air from getting in, and a new door made from inorganic plastics and foams that will never rot or fall apart. 

Vapor barrier + dehumidifier + sump pump = clean, dry, healthy air in your crawl space and your home. No mold, no pests, and no worries!