Crawl Space Encapsulation Pros and Cons

It is clear that homes with unconditioned crawl spaces will see more moisture related issues over time. Extended periods of high humidity in the crawl space can lead to cupping hardwood floors, mold growth and wood rot. To avoid these issues, experts recommend encapsulation.

Here is a list of the pros and cons of crawl space encapsulation that you should consider before installing one in your home. Included are a few Do’s and Dont’s when it comes to encapsulating the crawl space. We also talk about the key differences between sealing the crawl space and a regular vapor barrier. This will help you choose what is best for your home.

Pros of Crawl Space Encapsulation

There are many benefits of crawl space encapsulation. The investment is well worth it if you consider the following benefits to sealing it up.

Reduces/Eliminates Moisture Problems in the Crawl Space

Humidity is a problem that every home faces. With the help of an encapsulated crawl space, excessive moisture, high humidity and water damage issues are reduced. This protects your home not only from mold and mildew, but also promotes a long life for the structure of your home.

Prevents Crawl Space Pests

High humidity in the crawl space is sometimes associated with certain pest infestation. If installed properly, crawl space encapsulation can protect you from termites, rodents and other wildlife.

Reduces Overall Heating Costs.

Over the lifetime of the product, you can expect a reduction of heating & cooling costs because the cracks & gaps that would normally leak conditioned air are sealed. Also, by insulating the foundation walls instead of in the floor joist cavity, the HVAC system will run less reducing wear and tear on the system, increase energy efficiency and saves money.

Reduces/Eliminates Crawl Space Odors

One of the biggest contributors to foul odors in your home is the crawl space. The encapsulation process will include cleaning and prepping your crawl space. Your home will no longer linger with crawl space smells associated with mold mildew after encapsulation

Reduce Dust In The Home

A home with a traditional vented crawl space has air that comes in through the foundation vents. This air then exits out the ridge vent on the roof. This process is called the “Stack Effect.” This air contains dust and pollen that can contribute to poor indoor air quality. Encapsulating the crawl space helps reduce the stack effect. It seals all the openings where polluted air can enter. This action cuts off the thermodynamic engine and improves indoor air quality.

Increases Home Value

An encapsulated crawl space is a premium item. It takes a usually dark, damp and foreboding area and transforms it into a clean, dry visually appealing space. The thick reinforced liner is more forgiving to the wear & tear of heavy handed contractors. With more encapsulated crawl spaces being installed in homes, when given a choice, a prospective buyer would select the home with a sealed crawl space for every one of the examples listed above.

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Cons of Crawl Space Encapsulation

Although there are many benefits, you will still need to weigh a few cons before you make your final decision:

Upfront Investment

According to Home Advisor, the cost to encapsulate a average crawl space range between $3.50 to $7.50 a square foot. This puts the average cost at $5,500 to install this system.

A Cheaper Solution Can Be Just As Effective

Consider crawl space encapsulation as a premium moisture abatement solution for your home. There are situations where installing a standard vapor barrier and crawl space dehumidifier can be equally effective for controlling moisture in the crawl space at a fraction of the cost.

Loss of Floor Soundproofing.

A typical encapsulation project has the insulation removed from the joist cavity and the foundation walls insulated. The removal of insulation is typically the first step in a crawl space mold remediation project. You often see these services paired together. Customers reported hearing sump pumps and other crawl space equipment and noted cold spots on the floor. Reinstalling insulation in select areas of the floor & foam equipment covers resolves the problem at an additional expense.

Not An Easy Fix!

Materials used to encapsulate the crawl space are specialty items and not readily available at the local hardware store. Quality installers usually provide a complimentary roll of tape homeowners use to make small repairs to the liner. Major modifications such as additions & catastrophic plumbing leaks will need the help of your installer at additional cost.

Additional Maintenance

You will need additional maintenance and inspections throughout the year to keep your warranty intact. The cost of maintenance will be dependent on the amount of features you went with during the installation process. If you live in dry region, the advantages of encapsulation may not give you the investment return that you seek.

Encapsulation Vs Vapor Barrier

What is the difference between encapsulation and a vapor barrier? Normally, the thickness of the barrier, the taped seams and how it is fastened to the foundation wall.

Alternatives to Sealing up the Crawl Space

Vapor barrier installation is an alternative that you can consider for your crawl space. The purpose of a vapor barrier is to reduce ground water from evaporating in your crawl space. To counteract that, a thin sheet usually 4 to 6 millimeters thick covers the floor. The vapor barrier is not a sealed system and typically stops just short of the interior walls.

As a result, some water can still bypass the vapor barrier and enter the crawl space. A comprehensive and expensive approach is to get your crawl space encapsulated and drainage system installed to better guarantee a reduction in moisture.

The process begins with sealing the foundation vents, holes and cracks. The plastic attached to the wall using adhesive & nails This thicker plastic is usually 12 to 20 millimeters thick. It also has a polyester-cored reinforcement which is more durable than the vapor barrier. Vapor bond tape seal seams and is fastened to the floor walls & piers using adhesive. This completes the crawl space encapsulation process

Contact Our Crawl Space Encapsulation Pros!

If you are thinking about moisture control for a wet crawl space or basement, please contact one of our experts for a free estimate today. We also specialize in mold removal for crawl spaces.

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