Is Your Crawl Space Making You Sick?
Central Virginia is known for it’s lush green landscape which is a beautiful byproduct of high humid summers, cold winters, and everything in between. But what about the space beneath your home? Your Crawl Space. Can the humidity in your crawl space affect your health? If it’s ignored, a neglected crawl space can become a self generating ecosystem of problems that seep into your living space and affect your well-being.
The Hidden Dangers Beneath Your Feet
Crawl spaces are vulnerable to moisture from rainwater, high water tables, and humidity. This, along with a dark and enclosed space with little air circulation creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew growth. These fungi are microscopic release spores into the air, and can easily enter your living space through vents, floorboards, and even through the natural airflow within your walls. Breathing in these mold spores is a trigger for a wide range of health issues, especially for allergy-prone individuals or those with respiratory concerns.
Health Impacts of a Problem Crawl Space
When you are exposed to mold and mildew, you run the risk of worsening existing asthma and allergies. Here are some common symptoms:
- Respiratory Issues: Are you coughing or wheezing more than normal? Do you experience a shortness of breath, irritation in your throat or congestion?
- Allergic Reactions: Are you experiencing rashes, itchy eyes, sneezing?
- Other Symptoms: Are you or someone in your home feeling fatigued, having brain fog, or experiencing headaches?
Although mold is an issue, it is not the only health hazard potentially found in your overlooked crawl space. Excess moisture in your crawl space attracts pests like rodents and insects which introduce a host of problems. Allergens and diseases can further compromise your indoor air quality. Did you know that the droppings and urine of rodents may contain harmful viruses and bacteria? Did you know that dust mites also thrive in humid environments and can trigger allergic reactions?
Aside from mold and pests, there are even more health hazards that can be created under your home. Damp crawl spaces can lead to wood rot and structural damage which releases wood dust and other irritants into the air. This can make indoor air quality and respiratory issues even worse.
Additionally, damp crawl spaces can lead to wood rot and structural damage, releasing wood dust and other irritants into the air. This can further aggravate respiratory issues and contribute to poor indoor air quality.
Common Crawl Space Problems in Central Virginia
It’s no secret: we have high humidity and fluctuating temperatures and can make crawl spaces susceptible to a host of issues. This is moisture from groundwater, condensation, or even an appliance leak, lack of vapor barrier (or damaged vapor barriers), and inadequate or damaged insulation.
Taking Control of Your Crawl Space and Your Health
It may seem overwhelming and cause you to ask: “How can I tackle my crawl space issues?” It’s a critical question to consider in order to protect your home and your family’s health, however, it is possible. Here are some things to keep in mind in order to maintain a healthy and dry crawl space:
- Proper Ventilation: Traditional vents in your crawl space are often inadequate for the job, so we recommend installing a dehumidifier in certain cases.
- Encapsulation: This involves installing a vapor barrier on the ground and up the walls and pillars of your home to prevent moisture from coming through.
- Dehumidifier: This will take moisture from the air and keep it outside where it belongs.
- Sump Pump: this, along with drain tile, keeps standing water from staying in your home.
- Pest Control: Prevention is key through the efforts above along with a qualified pest control company.
- Regular Inspections: Even with all of the efforts above, it’s important to do regular inspections.
Vance Insulation: Your Partner in Crawl Space Health
Are you experiencing health issues inside your home? If so, it is highly recommended to get help from a professional company like Vance Insulation. With over 60 years of experience in providing home solutions to keep you comfortable and your home protected with proper insulation and moisture control, we are Virginia’s #1 choice for a happy crawl space. Call now for a free inspection to determine any potential issues. Don’t neglect your crawl sapce and compromise your health. Contact us today! 804-862-4493
