Crawl Space Encapsulation in North Charleston, SC

Building specialists propose encapsulating or sealing a crawl area to avoid mold development. Crawl space encapsulation or sealing converts a dirty, moldy crawl space into a clean, dry environment where mold cannot thrive.

Crawl space encapsulation systems cost an average of $5,500 to install, with prices varied per home. The total cost of the process ranges from $1,500 to $15,000, depending on the level of damage that may exist, and includes supplies and expert labor.

Every crawlspace that has been enclosed needs the use of a drying equipment. Although a dehumidifier is our recommended approach, crawl space contractors will often dry your crawlspace using the "supply air" method. In certain circumstances, supply air may be adequate to dry out the crawlspace depending on the home.

By sealing off your crawl space, encapsulation helps you to keep moisture out. You'll need to take care to keep your crawl area dry and safe from moisture as long as you have one. Whether you're building a new house or moving into an existing one, moisture may be a threat to the structural integrity of your property.

The cost of crawl space encapsulation is not covered by your homeowners insurance, but the benefits may outweigh the costs. It's a good idea to take steps that will make it far more difficult for flood water to accumulate in the first place, as well as make it easier to remove any water that does accumulate in your home's foundation.

Mold coverage is not guaranteed under the provisions of certain homeowner's insurance policies. Mold damage is usually only covered if it is caused by a risk that the insurance policy covers. Mold damage caused by flooding would need to be covered by a separate flood insurance policy.

The short answer is "No." That is, if nothing is done, the water in your crawl space will almost definitely not be able to leave. Moisture can accumulate in your crawl space due to leaking pipes, holes in your concrete foundation, or even the soil itself.

Yes, crawl space insulation is necessary. Crawl space insulation can be put between the joists as well as on the crawl space walls. To avoid committing this crawl space encapsulation mistake, double-check that you have put insulation. In the log run, you'll be delighted you did.

Inadequate or non-existent crawl space insulation may cause your flooring to feel ice cold. Excess humidity, chilly flooring, mildew and rot problems are just a few of the issues that can occur as a result of poor crawl space insulation.

Yes. A vapor barrier must be installed to keep moisture out of your crawl area. Furthermore, the basic minimum of protection that you should have put in your crawl area to avoid mold growth is a moisture barrier. A vapor barrier might help you save money on future repairs.

Residential building codes usually require a reinforced poly vapor barrier with a minimum thickness of 6 mil. However, for crawl space applications, a thickness of 12 mil or greater is recommended. Most building codes need poly sheeting with a thickness of 6 mils or more to meet this basic minimum requirement.

No, vapor barriers, also known as moisture barriers, help in reducing the risk of mold formation in crawl spaces and are not the source of mold growth.

If a contractor is constructing a large number of vapor barriers in a single project, it is typical for them to charge by the total thickness of the vapor barrier. According to industry norms, you should budget between $0.25 and $1.50 per square foot, or more if the vapor barrier is 20 mils or thicker.