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Water can be stealthy. Sometimes, you don’t even realize the damage it has caused until you see mold for yourself or water pooling into your crawlspace. As you might imagine, your crawlspace is a prime target for water damage, thanks largely to its proximity close to the ground. While you might not attend to your crawlspace very often, you will want to check up on it from time to time to make sure that no water has found its way through it.
You can take your precautions a step further by waterproofing your crawlspace. At Bluebird CFW Foundation Repair & Waterproofing, we know just how much of a difference a solid waterproofing job can make.
If you are still on the fence, here is what you should know:
Top Reasons for Crawl Space Waterproofing
If you look between your first floor and the ground of your home, you will find your crawlspace. Crawlspaces are accurately named based on their size, as they are typically only 1-1.5 meters high. If you want to get in there, you’ll need to crawl. Needless to say, this space has certainly earned its name.
Because of their inaccessibility, most homeowners don’t bother with the crawlspace unless they have to. Some people may use the space for additional storage, but their primary function is to give you a place to access plumbing and electrical when something in your home goes awry.
If water does find its way in, you can expect the following issues:
- Pest Infestation – Pests like rats, mice, and insects require water to survive, just like anyone else. What better place to find it than a dark, secluded crawlspace that has flooded?
- Mold and Mildew – Cool, dark places are prime breeding grounds for mold. Moisture only exacerbates the problem. Not to mention, many people are allergic to mold, making it all the more unwelcome.
- Structural Damage – Don’t underestimate the damage that fungi and bacteria can do to your structure. These organisms thrive on wood rot. Before long, they will weaken your structure, which can spell real trouble in the near future.
Bluebird Ann Arbor Crawl Space Waterproofing
You do not have to live in fear of water damage or structural issues. At Bluebird, we know how to confront these problems with compassion and expertise. Whether you need insulation to keep moisture out and heat from escaping or encapsulation to ensure water never breaks through, we can help you.
When you trust Bluebird with crawlspace waterproofing, you are investing in years of experience. We only use the best materials and techniques to create a secure barrier to keep water out. Your waterproofed crawlspace will be protected from heavy rainstorms, potential leaks, and moisture in general. By the time we are done, mold, pests, and water will not know how to get into your house!
Now is the best time to waterproof your crawlspace and protect your home. If you are a homeowner aching to solve your water woes and would like a free quote, contact Bluebird today. Alongside crawlspace waterproofing, we specialize in basement waterproofing and foundation repair services in Ann Arbor, MI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Crawlspace encapsulation is the process of covering the walls and floor with a vapor barrier to control moisture. It also involves sealing the vents and insulating the area. Encapsulating the crawlspace not only controls moisture but also helps improve your home’s energy efficiency and protects its structural integrity.
The starting cost of crawlspace encapsulation at Bluebird CFW is $5,000 for a single project in Ann Arbor.With an average of $3, per-square-foot charge is $2-$4. To give you an exact price estimate, we would have to evaluate factors like–
- The total size of your crawlspace and its walls
- The existing condition of your crawlspace
- Local permit costs
- Requirement for extra repairs like pest control and mold remediation
Encapsulating your crawlspace renders you benefits like–
- Prevention of unwanted moisture
- Deter pest infestations
- Protection from termites and other wood-eating insects
- Protection of foundation
- Elimination of strong odors
- Reduction of electricity bills
- Utilization of the space as additional storage
Crawl space encapsulation has risks like–
- Expensive installation and upkeep costs
- The buildup of moisture
- Lack of proper ventilation
- Improper sealing can trap moisture and cause mold
- Potential structural damage due to moisture buildup
Your crawlspace has mold if you notice visible signs of black and green patches on surfaces, stains, discolorations on walls, and a strong, musty odor. Warped wooden floors, rotting wood, respiratory problems like breathing difficulties, and allergy symptoms like runny nose and watery eyes may also indicate mold in your crawlspace. If you notice mold in your crawlspace, Bluebird CFW is here to help.
Your crawl space has mold because–
- Excess moisture
- Exposure to damp soil
- High humidity
- Bad air circulation
These scenarios create a damp and humid environment in your crawlspace, creating an ideal mold growth environment.
Yes! If you want to eliminate musty smells, dampness, and mold and improve the air circulation in your home and crawlspace, sealing it is a good idea. When it comes to sealing your crawl space for unwanted moisture issues and increasing your home value, remember Bluebird CFW.
It’s best to encapsulate your crawl space if–
- There are patches of recurring mold and mildew
- There is a significant increase in electricity bills
- Your crawl space is damp and humid
- Your crawl space has a pungent musty odor
- Problems, cracks, and warps arise in your home’s foundation
If you notice such signs, call us immediately. We will safeguard your crawl space and your entire home from further damage.
By sealing your crawlspace, you prevent outside air from entering the space with a vapor barrier. The process is the same for an encapsulated crawlspace. The only difference is it incorporates additional measures like controlling excess moisture and insulating and conditioning the air in the crawl space.
While the cost per millimeter ranges between $0.50 – $0.70 for a moisture barrier in Ann Arbor, the overall price depends on various factors like–
- The total crawlspace area
- The type and thickness of the barrier
- The complexity of the installation
If you want a price estimate, contact our team of professionals in Bluebird CFW.
The cons of sealing a crawl space are–
- Expensive installation costs
- Additional and continual maintenance costs
- Problems with ventilation
- Potential requirement of an HVAC system upgrade
- It may require the installation of foundation wall insulation
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