Crawl spaces are dank and nasty places that most people avoid as much as possible. But did you know that crawl space restoration could help improve your crawl space, cleaning out things like mold and creating a space that is more conducive to protecting your home and your health? 

There are many different types of restoration that you can use for your crawl space. When it starts to smell musty or you notice signs of mold, water damage, or other issues, it’s time to take action. Just because this space is “separate” from the rest of your home doesn’t mean you are safe from side effects in your home. 

Types of Crawl Space Restoration

The crawl space is often an essential part of a home. This space is just usually big enough to crawl through, or walk hunched over in some cases, hence the name “crawl space.” Many times, it has a dirt floor, and there can be spiders and other insects in the space. 

This space beneath your home might have plumbing, ductwork, and other essential parts of operating things within the residence. And since it’s typically out of sight and out of mind, it never gets cleaned. Since it never gets cleaned, it’s no surprise that it could lead to issues such as mold, moisture, insects, rodents, and more. 

The most common types of crawl space restoration are:

• Crawl space mold treatment
• Musty odor treatment
• Vapor and moisture barrier
• Crawl space encapsulation

Crawl Space Mold Treatment

Older homes have crawl spaces that are unfinished and not adequately protected from the elements or the weather. That means that these spaces often are subjected to higher humidity and exposed directly to the outdoors. In addition, they will be more prone to moisture from that exposure. They might even get moisture from leaky pipes or unsealed spaces. 

Where there is moisture and humidity, there is room for mold growth. It would be very easy for your crawl space to develop mold and become infested without you even realizing it. But that mold can circulate into your home and cause allergies, asthma, and other issues. 

Musty Odor Treatment

Since the crawl space is susceptible to mold and moisture, it is also susceptible to odors. When you have your crawl space cleaned or restored, the odors will also be treated. If odors are left behind, then we haven’t done our job properly.  

The musty odors stem from mold, mildew, and even dead mold spores. All mold spores (dead or alive) can be dangerous and can emit odors. This type of treatment will involve mold remediation, as well as odor treatments. 

Vapor and Moisture Barrier

If you want to add protection to your crawl space to help reduce those risks of moisture, you can use a vapor and moisture barrier. This barrier incorporates a specialized material that is durable and easy to keep clean. The seamless material is placed from wall to wall to provide protection against the earth. 

It creates a barrier against moisture and vapors that can lead to issues within your crawl space. 

Crawl Space Encapsulation

Crawl space encapsulation is the most protective measure you can take. It provides protection against water, moisture, pests, and more. This process gives you more control over the environment and can help to better regulate air quality, moisture, and energy efficiency throughout your home. 

Crawl space encapsulation uses a plastic barrier that is designed to last for a lifetime. It seals the crawl space completely to add a protective barrier. You can also add moisture control systems into this space for more control and efficiency. 

When to Restore Your Crawl Space

It’s a good idea to inspect and clean your crawl space on a regular basis. However, it’s often not a priority. Crawl space encapsulation will do a lot to protect many areas of your home and foundation. 

These signs are things that might help alert you that it’s time to give your crawl space some attention:

• Excessive moisture in the crawl space
• Insect or pest infestations
• High humidity levels
• Cracks in the foundation
• Mold or mildew
• Musty odors
• High energy bills
• Rotted wood and floor joists
• Unexplained condensation
• Signs of animals 

Let Us Help with Your Crawl Space Restoration

When was the last time you even thought about your crawl space? Do you dread it when you have to go in there? If so, it’s probably time to consider restoration, especially if you notice any of the signs above. 

At ONEighty Solutions, we can help you clean up and restore this space, from treating mold and odors to a total encapsulation of the crawl space. Contact us today to determine the best solution for your needs and to plan the restoration process.