Franklin is a city of over 8,000 residents, located in the lower tidewater area of Virginia. The city is known for its small town and friendly atmosphere, as well as a history of exporting the ‘ground pea,’ also known as the peanut.
Many residents in the Franklin area have crawl spaces and some have to deal with associated problems. Knowing how to identify crawl space problems and what to do about them can go a long way in keeping your home healthy and safe.
Common Signs Of Crawl Space Problems In Franklin, VA
Crawl space problems can take on many different forms, but they all have something in common. When crawl space problems occur, it is a sign of damage that needs attention. These problems can affect the home, your comfort, and even the health of your family.
The following are some of the most common signs of crawl space problems our neighbors in Franklin may experience.
Allergies and Respiratory Problems
Have you noticed an increase in allergy symptoms or respiratory problems? This can be associated with unhealthy air quality stemming from crawl space problems. Those with pre-existing respiratory issues (asthma, COPD) are more likely to have those issues.
Wet Concrete or Masonry
One of the early signs of crawl space problems is wet concrete or masonry. This may be due to high humidity and condensation or it could be due to wet soil. In either case, it could test the integrity of the foundation walls.
Evidence of Pests in the Crawl Space
An unencapsulated crawl space is an ideal environment for pest infestations. This includes rodents and bugs. You may not see them, but they can leave behind evidence that they are there.
Insect Infestation
Since insects are common in an unencapsulated crawl space, they are often seen in other areas of the home. Some common insects include roaches and termites.
Pooled Water in the Crawl Space
It may be common for water to pool in the crawl space but it should never be considered normal. Water can affect the health of the home and can undermine the foundation walls.
Mold/Mildew
No homeowner wants to have a problem with mold, but it is common in a damp, cold crawl space. Mold spores can reach dangerous levels as the air is exchanged between the crawl space and the living space.
Why Your Crawl Space Problems Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Once the signs of crawl space problems start to show, the issue could be advanced. Ignoring any crawl space problems will not make them go away. Those issues are likely to get worse and can include the following.
Stack Effect
When hot air rises, it passes through the ceiling and out of the house. It leaves behind a slight vacuum, which is filled with air that is pulled from the crawl space. As a result, the air in the crawl space is the air in the living space.
Respiratory Issues
Unhealthy air from the crawl space can affect the quality of the air in your living area. This can result in more frequent respiratory issues, especially among those with compromised immune systems, asthma, and COPD.
Mold and Mildew
Mold grows in damp surroundings, exactly what is seen in an unencapsulated crawl space. As mold grows, it spreads and can become airborne. Mold spores can enter the rest of the home through the stack effect, resulting in health problems.
Insect Infestation
Unencapsulated crawl spaces provide a suitable home for insects, including roaches and termites. Those insects cause damage and can jeopardize the health of your family. They also invade the rest of the home.
Floor Damage
The floor can be damaged from underneath by termites and moisture. As these issues persist, it can result in uneven floors that are loose. You may even notice furniture shaking as you walk by the area.
Higher Repair Costs
If you put off repairing the crawl space and having it encapsulated, it will get worse. As a result, the repair costs will be higher. Depending on the damage, it could be significantly higher.
Common Methods For Crawl Space Repair
Repairing a crawl space is the first step before encapsulation. Unless the repairs take place, the problems are likely to return after the job is finished. Here are some of the repair services we offer.
Water Removal
Any excess water, such as standing water in the crawl space or water in the soil near the foundation is problematic. Removing the water is the first step in the repair process.
Insulation Replacement
When insulation gets wet, it doesn’t take long before mold starts to grow. In fact, it can grow within 2 or 3 days. Any insulation in the area is removed and replaced.
Drain Tile
Since we removed the excess water at the beginning of the repair process, we set up a drain tile (French drain) to keep the water from being a problem in the future.
Crawl Space Encapsulation
The crawl space encapsulation process begins once the repairs are complete. We cover the walls and floor of the crawl space with a thick vapor barrier. We use a poly-sheeting, which keeps both the moisture and the pests out.
If there are any vents or any other areas that allow air exchange with the outside, they are sealed. This completes the encapsulation process, but we aren’t finished with our work yet.
A dehumidifier is installed, which removes any moisture that naturally exists in the air. This also keeps the humidity down throughout the entire home, resulting in a healthier, cleaner, and more comfortable living space.
Free Crawl space Inspection and Estimate in Franklin, VA
Every home with a crawl space would benefit from a crawl space encapsulation. You can learn more about what it can do for your home and even how much it will cost by requesting a free crawl space inspection and estimate from AMC911.
Fill out the form on our website and one of our friendly professionals will get with you to set up an appointment.
