When it comes to crawlspaces one of the questions you likely have is if it’s worth encapsulating the crawlspace or doing somethings about it. Maybe, you are experiencing problems with the crawlspace already like dump smell, mold or mildew, pests or water pooling in the crawlspace.
A crawlspace, often hidden beneath our homes. It plays a role in maintaining structural integrity and indoor air quality. However, it’s an area that often goes unnoticed until problems arise. One way to address potential issues and improve the overall health of your home is through crawlspace encapsulation.
In this article, we will dive into the concept of crawlspace encapsulation, its benefits, and when it might be necessary or unnecessary.
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Image showing crawlspace before and after encapsulation. Image source OREA.
What is a Crawlspace?
A crawlspace is a shallow, unfinished space found beneath a home’s ground level. It provides access to plumbing, electrical systems, and sometimes serves as a storage room. Due to its confined nature, crawlspaces can often become susceptible to moisture, mold, fungi, pests, and other environmental factors that can impact the home’s overall health.
What is Crawlspace Encapsulation?
Crawlspace encapsulation is a process that involves sealing off the crawlspace from the surrounding environment, creating a controlled space that is free from moisture and outside air. This is typically achieved by installing a vapour barrier on the ground and walls of the crawlspace, along with insulation and a dehumidifier if needed. The goal is to create a clean, dry, and controlled environment that can have a positive impact on the home’s indoor air quality and energy efficiency.
Crawlspace Encapsulation vs. Insulation
A common pitfall when considering options for your crawlspace is confusing encapsulation with insulation. These are two different projects, although they often work hand in hand. Insulation primarily focuses on regulating temperature, while crawlspace encapsulation addresses moisture control and air quality. However, both approaches can complement each other to create a more comfortable and energy-efficient living space.
Image showing foam crawlspace insulation on walls and encapsulated crawlspace floor. Image source: Wikipedia
Considerations & Signs That you May Need Crawlspace Encapsulation
Every scenario is different and it is best to consult an experts about your specific crawlspace as most companies provide free on-site estimates.
There is no one-fits-all approach when it comes to crawlspace encapsulation. Location of your home, the amount of groundwater and other factors play a role when designing a crawlspace encapsulation project. In some cases, sump pumps or dehumidifiers may be added, other scenarios require more foundation repairs etc.
Bulk Water Problems
Water is often the main problem with crawlspace, but before designing your approach make sure that you don’t have water pooling around the crawlspace in bulk. This mat create another kind of problem for your property as it’s problematic to remove water that covers the plastic encapsulation tape.
Image showing the flood watch map of Ontario, Canada. Source: Ontario Flood Forecasting Program
Flood Zones
Another consideration to keep in mind. Similar to water pooling in bulk, flood-prone areas may need a different approach to crawlspace encapsulation (for example spray foam insulation, blown or bat insulation etc.)
Below is a number of resources and flood maps of Ontario so you can check your area:
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Floodplain Map – Essex County Conservation Authority
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Floodplain Map – Toronto Region and Conservation Authority
Building Codes
It is always important to make sure that your crawlspace encapsulation project is in check with the local building codes and there are many things to consider. For example, if your crawlspace has a gas furnace or other combustion elements installed. Building codes require a certain amount of volume for atmospheric combustion appliances, etc. Here is a link to the local building code website of Ontario.
Make sure to consult a professional!
Crawlspace Encapsulation Comes with a Number of Advantages
When considering crawlspace encapsulation you should also take advantages into account. In other words, what do you get out of the encapsulation project?
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Moisture Control – one of the primary benefits of crawlspace encapsulation is the prevention of moisture buildup. A sealed crawlspace can help prevent mold growth, wood rot, and other moisture-related issues.
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Improved Air Quality – by controlling moisture and preventing the entry of outside air, encapsulation can lead to better indoor air quality, reducing the potential for allergens and other contaminants to enter the living spaces.
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Energy Efficiency – a properly encapsulated crawlspace can contribute to improved energy efficiency by reducing the load on heating and cooling systems, ultimately leading to lower energy bills.
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Structural Integrity – encapsulation can help protect the structural integrity of your home by preventing damage from moisture-related issues such as wood decay and foundation problems.
Image showing the crawlspace that has the floor above it sealed.
Crawlspace Encapsulation Alternatives
While crawlspace encapsulation has its benefits, not every scenario requires encapsulation, and in some cases it may not be possible to encapsulate the crawlspace at all. In cases like these, we normally try to design a workaround that will still allow our clients to achieve their objectives, without doing the crawlspace encapsulation. Here is a couple of tricks we commonly use:
Sealing the Floor Above the Crawlspace – a common service that helps to separate your living space from crawlspace, while minimizing heat losses and some other unwanted things commonly associated with crawlspaces.
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Crawlspace insulation – with spray foam
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Fiber Glass Bet Insulation
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Blown Insulation
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Bet Insulation
In conclusion, crawlspace encapsulation can offer significant advantages in terms of moisture control, indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and overall home health. It becomes necessary when moisture-related issues and poor air quality are present.
However, each home is unique, and homeowners should carefully assess their specific needs and consult with professionals to determine whether crawlspace encapsulation is the right solution.
As with any home improvement project, a well-informed decision is crucial to ensuring the long-term well-being of your home and its occupants.
Aquamaster offers a number of services in basement waterproofing & underpinning helping to keep your basement free of water intrusion & foundation in a good condition.
